If you have never given much thought to your roots, now is the time to do so. Your root system is the foundation of your body and plays a crucial role in oral and overall health. If you think of a tree’s root system as a network, the deeper it goes, the stronger and healthier that tree will be.
When it comes to our bodies, that means going beyond the surface and looking at what lies beneath will help us understand more about our overall health. Root systems are not something you see daily but are just as important as your skin or visible organs.
They are what keep you grounded and healthy from within. Read on for more information about roots and how they affect your body!
Teeth Roots Exposed: What’s Going On?
When we talk about roots, we’re talking about the tissue that grows into the bone beneath your gums, anchoring teeth in the mouth and helping them stay healthy. The apical root and the periodontal ligament (PDL) have two primary roots.
The apical root grows down into the jaw and is the part of the tooth you can see when you look in the mirror — the tooth crown. This root is the part of the tooth most likely to be exposed, leading to infection and tooth loss.
The periodontal ligament is the fibrous tissue that connects the root to the gums and is responsible for holding teeth in place.
Recognizing When A Root Is Exposed
The most common way a tooth root becomes exposed is due to gum disease. Experiencing tender gums and bleeding when brushing your teeth may be an early sign of your gums pulling away from your teeth. It’s best to contact your dentist immediately once you recognize these symptoms.
You can also check your teeth for exposed roots by looking in the mirror and opening your mouth as wide as possible, checking if the gums have pulled away from your teeth. If you can see beyond the gum line, you can see the root. Also, your teeth may appear longer than they used to.
Exposed roots mean something is wrong with your gums and teeth; you must consult your dentist if you notice anything abnormal. If you are in pain when you open your mouth or see a change in your gums, you must visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Typical Symptoms Of An Exposed Tooth Root
If a tooth root is exposed, there is a chance it will become infected. When it comes to oral health, root exposure is a significant issue. If the tooth root is exposed to gum disease, there could be an infection present, sensitivity around the roots, and inflammation.
The area may be sensitive or painful to touch, making it difficult to brush and floss. The symptoms will differ if the root is exposed for another reason, such as an impacted tooth. If the tooth root is exposed because the gum has receded, the first symptom you may notice is a change in your tooth’s color.
Teeth with a color similar to the tooth root are more sensitive to cold, heat, and sweets, which is another sign.
Be On The Look Out For These Causes (and How to Avoid Them)!
If you have noticed your gums receding or have a toothache, it is essential to visit the dentist ASAP. Gum disease must be treated early because it can lead to more severe health problems when left untreated. If you have had a root canal done in the past, it is essential to have your dentist check your teeth regularly to ensure they are healthy.
Tooth sensitivity and discomfort when eating or drinking hot and cold foods is the first noticeable sign of an exposed tooth root. Performing home treatments to keep your teeth and gums healthy, such as using mouthwash with fluoride, brushing regularly, and flossing daily, may be a big help. If you have impacted teeth, avoid grinding and use a mouth guard to protect the affected teeth to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
Make sure to brush and floss regularly to prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Take care of your teeth and gums and keep your root system healthy to avoid exposed tooth roots, which can lead to infection and tooth loss.
Options For Fixing Your Exposed Tooth Root
If your root is exposed because of gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend cleaning your teeth to remove unwanted plaque that builds up around the teeth. It’s best to remember that plaque is the usual cause of your gums pulling away from your teeth, leaving your tooth roots exposed.
Another option to fix exposed tooth roots is gum graft treatment or flap surgery to cover the exposed parts of your tooth roots if they have receded too much. If you have had a root canal done in the past, your dentist may recommend placing a crown.
Your dentist may recommend extraction if the root is exposed to an impacted tooth. Orthodontic treatment or dental surgery may be recommended if your tooth roots are exposed because of a misaligned or impacted tooth.
Suggestions For An Exposed Root Treatment
Depending on the cause of the exposed root, your dentist may treat the root by cleaning it, removing the gum, or placing a covering over it. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend treating the gums first. If you have had a root canal, your dentist may recommend a regular visit to ensure proper healing and avoid getting infected.
In the case of an impacted tooth, your dentist may recommend a treatment to correct the alignment of your teeth. If your root has been exposed because of an infection, your dentist may recommend treating the gum and advise you on proper oral hygiene habits.
Whatever the cause of your tooth root being exposed, contacting your dentist immediately for a check-up will be the best approach to prevent your teeth from decaying further and falling out.
When Roots Are Exposed Too Far for an Easy Fix
If the root has been overexposed and the gums have receded too far, your dentist may recommend pulling your teeth out and getting a dental implant. Root canals may also be challenging in this situation, so the dentist may not try to recommend them.
Infections may be harder to treat in this situation, so oral surgery may be needed to help clean the harmful bacteria around the exposed tooth root before proceeding with another treatment.
An Exposed Tooth Root Gets You To the Dentist; Now It’s Your Turn to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
If your teeth are healthy, you will be less likely to experience having exposed tooth roots. Keep brushing and flossing daily, and see your dentist regularly to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Preventative options are always available if you are worried about your oral health. You can wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and prevent them from getting knocked out or breaking. You can also get a retainer to keep your teeth in place and protect them from moving out of place.
Contact Mountain View Dental For More Info
If you’re ready to book your next trip to the dentist, give Mountain View Dental a call. Our team of dentists and dental team members will be happy to help you prepare for your visit, answer any questions you have, and make sure you feel comfortable at your appointment.
All you have to do is call us at (770) 429-8989. We’re open six days a week, including weekends. You can also book your appointment online.
We look forward to seeing you soon!