Are exposed tooth roots common?
Dental Infections are very common, and one of the most frustrating things about dental infections is the way the gum recedes from the tooth, creating a “long tooth” look. While dealing with exposed tooth roots is not particularly fun or easy, there is a comfort in knowing that it is common. Many people experience this and deal with it every year. This is also comforting because you know your dental care team is well equipped to help you tackle this issue.
What Causes Exposed Tooth Roots?
Exposed tooth roots can be the result of either Infection, DIsease, or Trauma. Gum Infection is almost always the root cause–because when bacteria enters the root of the tooth, it leads to gum recession. As the gums recede from the tooth, the root is exposed more. This can lead to tooth loss and further infection. The milder form of dental infection can become advanced and lead to dental disease, wherein major structural damage is occurring within the mouth and teeth. There is also the potential of Trauma in our every day lives. We do our best to avoid disaster, but sometimes life hits us in the face with something. This can cause our teeth to shift and loosen the teeth within our jaw. This can in turn cause the gums to recede, or expose us to infection.
Signs and Symptoms of Exposed Tooth Roots
1. Long Teeth- Your teeth may appear longer because the gum has less surface area up the tooth. You may also see a dark area in the gum underneath the tooth as the root becomes exposed.
2. Shifting Teeth- Your teeth become dislodged from the base because the gum is breaking down. They are no longer secure and tend to wobble.
3. Bleeding- Bleeding gums are a common sign of dental infection, and not pleasant. As the problem gets worse this discharge may get a lot more gross, like pus or foul smelling stuff.
4. Bad Breath- Maybe the main reason we all care enough to brush our teeth everyday, bad breath is a major faux pax and people are quick to call you out on it. No one likes to be embarrassed.
5. Tooth Loss- Over time if you never address the problem, you will lose teeth. They will become so unstable they will fall out like baby teeth. This is very difficult, because you now have to try and treat the receding gums and replace the tooth at the same time.
When to See your Dentist
At the first sign of exposed tooth roots, dental infection, dental disease, or trauma to the face/jaw. It is worth saying also, anytime that you are schedule. We can all miss an appointment every now and then, but make sure you reschedule. You do not want to go years letting dental infections wreak havoc on your breath and teeth before taking action. The hygiene repair process is long and requires patience. Otherwise you may have to look at tooth replacement and repair options, which can be more costly.