Exposed tooth roots occur when protective gum tissue pulls back, revealing the tooth’s root surface. This common dental concern can lead to discomfort and signal underlying oral health issues, making addressing them important for overall dental well-being.
Understanding Exposed Tooth Roots
Tooth roots are typically covered and supported by gum tissue, cementum, and bone. When this support diminishes, the roots become exposed. The exposed root surface is covered by cementum, a softer material than the enamel that covers the crown. This makes the exposed root vulnerable to wear and decay.
Several factors contribute to root exposure, primarily gum recession, which occurs when gum tissue wears away or pulls back. Aggressive brushing, especially with a hard-bristled toothbrush, can physically strip away gum tissue. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection damaging gums and supporting bone, is another significant contributor. Other causes include teeth grinding (bruxism), misaligned teeth, and trauma to the mouth.
When tooth roots become exposed, common symptoms include increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. This occurs because the dentin layer is no longer adequately protected. Visible changes to the gum line, such as teeth appearing longer or noticeable gaps between gums and teeth, can also signal root exposure. Other signs may include tenderness, swelling, or bleeding gums, especially during brushing.
Professional Treatment Approaches
Addressing exposed tooth roots requires professional dental intervention, with treatments varying by extent and cause. These approaches aim to reduce sensitivity, protect the root surface, and restore gum health. Ignoring exposed roots can lead to further complications like decay, infection, and potentially tooth loss.
For mild cases or to manage sensitivity, desensitizing treatments are a common first step. Dentists can apply in-office fluoride varnishes or other desensitizing agents, which strengthen exposed root surfaces and block nerve sensitivity. Patients may also use desensitizing toothpastes at home for temporary relief by blocking nerve endings.
When gum recession is significant, gum grafting (gingival grafting) is a common surgical procedure to cover exposed roots and restore the gum line. This procedure involves taking healthy gum tissue, often from the roof of the mouth (palate), and attaching it to the receding gum area. New blood vessels grow into the graft, integrating it with the surrounding tissue, which helps reduce sensitivity, prevent further recession, and protect against root decay.
Types of Gum Grafts
Connective tissue grafts, the most common type, involve removing subepithelial tissue from beneath a flap on the roof of the mouth and suturing it to the recipient site. Free gingival grafts take a small piece of tissue directly from the roof of the mouth and stitch it to the affected area, often to thicken thin gums. Pedicle grafts use tissue directly adjacent to the receding gum, where a flap is partially cut and rotated or slid sideways to cover the exposed root, maintaining its blood supply. This technique is used when sufficient healthy gum tissue is near the affected tooth.
Dental bonding or fillings use tooth-colored resin material applied directly to the exposed root surface. The resin is shaped to cover and protect the exposed area, then hardened with a special light. This effectively reduces sensitivity and protects the root from abrasion and decay, especially in minor cases.
Orthodontic treatment may indirectly address root exposure. By repositioning teeth and correcting misalignments, orthodontics helps distribute biting forces more evenly and improve overall gum health, reducing the risk of further recession. This also improves oral hygiene. For severe cases with deep decay or infection affecting the tooth’s nerve, root canal therapy might be necessary to remove infected pulp and save the tooth.
Preventing Root Exposure
Preventing exposed tooth roots involves consistent daily practices and proactive dental care. These measures can significantly reduce the risk of gum recession and its progression.
Proper brushing technique is an important preventive step. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended, as hard bristles can damage delicate gum tissue and lead to recession. Brushing should be gentle, using small circular motions at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, to effectively remove plaque without harming the gums.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and prevention. Dentists can identify early signs of gum recession or disease and remove plaque and tartar buildup. This allows for timely intervention before the condition worsens.
Addressing teeth grinding (bruxism) can help prevent root exposure. Dentists may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard during sleep to protect teeth and gums from grinding and clenching forces. Stress management techniques can also contribute to reducing bruxism.
Consistent oral hygiene beyond brushing is important. Daily flossing helps remove plaque and food debris from between teeth and along the gum line, areas toothbrushes might miss. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria in the mouth, contributing to healthier gums.
Lifestyle choices also impact gum health. Quitting tobacco use, including smoking and smokeless tobacco, is beneficial, as tobacco products link to gum disease and recession. A balanced diet limiting acidic foods and drinks also protects tooth enamel and overall oral health, as acids erode tooth structure and contribute to sensitivity.