Your teeth’s roots contain bony dentine and sensitive nerve pulp. These are covered by cementum and protected by your gums. The roots might lose their protection if you have gum disease, which causes the gums to recede. This might also happen if you over brush your teeth and wear out the cementum since it is not very hard. Tooth sensitivity is generally the first symptom of exposed tooth roots. Bleeding, red and swollen gums and teeth that appear more extended than usual are less apparent symptoms.
You have various treatment options at a Meridian-based dental care facility for exposed roots. Unfortunately, most people do not think they need treatment for exposed dental roots mostly because they do not appreciate the problem’s severity. Left untreated, however, tooth sensitivity can worsen and bacteria can proliferate inside the roots, causing extensive issues.
Here are your exposed root treatment alternatives.
Dental Bonding
In this option, a tooth-colored resin is applied to the area of the exposed roots after preparation of the affected tooth’s surface. This material is then hardened under a special light. Dental bonding will not only cover the exposed roots and provide a barrier to external stimuli that trigger sensitivity but also enhance your smile’s appearance. The resultant look is a lengthening of your teeth, but this is only minimal.
Gum Grafting
This is the choice treatment for extensive exposed roots. It is generally the last treatment resort after others have failed. There are different types of gum grafting operation techniques, but the pocket reduction and pinhole techniques are the most popular. Both methods involve the restoration of gum tissue to an affected area by implanting a graft tissue to the area. The results are a natural look for your gums and relieved tooth sensitivity. The grafting sometimes includes a jawbone graft since extensive root exposure will affect the integrity of your jawbone as well.
Root Canal
This treatment is also reserved for patients with severely exposed tooth roots. In a root canal, the pulp cavity in the exposed areas of your roots is removed. This gets rid of the nerve endings and consequently alleviates the pain and discomfort associated with exposed roots. Unfortunately, this will not address the aesthetic impact of exposed roots.
Dentin Sealers and Fluoride Varnishes
Sealers might be applied to the exposed area to seal it and alleviate sensitivity efficiently. Dentin sealers can be alternated with fluoride varnishes to seal the exposed areas. There are different fluoride treatments available in pharmacies, but in-office fluoride varnish trays are the most effective. Other than sealing the exposed roots, the varnish strengthens your teeth.
Exposed tooth roots are a common but unfortunately largely untreated dental problem. After the above treatments, it is vital to use light pressure and a soft-bristled toothbrush for your dental hygiene. It is also advisable to avoid overly acidic drinks, as they weaken the treatment area and might reverse the positive impact of your treatment. With proper aftercare and routine dental checkups, the above procedures will last a lifetime.
