Is Exposed Tooth Roots an Emergency?
You may have noticed more of your tooth root showing. If this is the case, you have what is referred to as an “exposed tooth root.” Below is more about the condition including what causes it, treatment options, and whether or not an exposed tooth root is an emergency.
Is Exposed Tooth Roots an Emergency?
While it’s not always a dental emergency, an exposed tooth root can become one. If you start noticing some of the symptoms worsening, you may need to see an emergency dentist. Some of these symptoms include severe pain, bleeding, fever, swelling, sensitivity, and signs of infection. If you schedule an appointment to have the tooth root looked at by a dentist as soon as you notice the condition, you lower the chances of the condition worsening and you should be able to avoid a trip to the emergency dentist.
What Leads to an Exposed Tooth Root?
An exposed tooth root can be due to a variety of different causes. Some of these include:
- Gum disease
- Infection
- Gum injury
- Bruxism
- Tooth misalignment
Treatment for an Exposed Root
The underlying issue that causes an exposed tooth root needs to be addressed first and foremost. From there, cosmetic procedures can be considered.
- Deep Cleaning: A deep cleaning can be extremely helpful with the treatment of an exposed tooth root. During this procedure, your dentist goes below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be reached during a regular cleaning.
- Root canal therapy: At earlier stages of an exposed root, root canal therapy (also known as a “root canal”) may be an option. This involves the removal of the infected pulp of a tooth.
- Tooth extraction: In a worst-case scenario, the issues causing your tooth exposure may lead to the need for extraction. This is why it’s so important to visit your dentist as soon as you begin noticing tooth root exposure.
Gum grafting is an excellent option for the repair of gums if the gums have receded. With that said, the underlying issue needs to be addressed before a gum grafting procedure can be performed.
How Do I Prevent an Exposed Tooth Root?
In order to prevent an exposed tooth root, you’ll want to take care of your oral health, first and foremost. This will prevent gum disease and infections that can lead to an exposed tooth root. Make sure you brush twice a day, rinse, and floss. Also, see your dentist every six months for your regular cleaning and checkup.
To avoid an exposed root, you’ll also want to stop using tobacco products, improve your diet, address bruxism (if you are suffering from it), and work towards lowering your levels of stress.
Contact Us
If you have noticed your gums receding or any of the other symptoms of an exposed tooth root, reach out today. We’ll have a dentist examine your tooth and gum to better understand what is causing the recession. From there, your dentist will put together a treatment plan to meet your needs.