Can You Fix Exposed Tooth Roots Naturally?
If you think your teeth are looking longer or you are experiencing increased tooth sensitivity you might have an exposed tooth root. You might question what caused it and if you can treat it on your own at home.
By practicing good oral hygiene, you can actually prevent the exposure from getting worse. But, without help from your dentist, you cannot return the exposed root back to normal.
What Is an Exposed Tooth Root?
Every tooth consists of two parts, the crown, which is the part visible above the gumline, and the root.
The tooth root is pointed and is embedded in the bone foundations. The root is twice as long as the crown to provide the tooth strength and stability.
In proper health, the tooth root is not visible since a proportion of the root is surrounded by bone and the remainder is covered by gum tissue.
What Causes an Exposed Tooth Root?
The main reason a tooth root becomes exposed is from gum recession when the gum shrinks back away from the tooth. This is usually from periodontal disease. Periodontal, or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition as the result of an accumulation of harmful bacteria, or plaque, on the teeth.
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. The plaque buildup irritates the gums and they become swollen and inflamed. They may also bleed when brushing.
Gingivitis is reversible with professional teeth cleaning and good oral hygiene at home. If not addressed, it will advance to the next stage, periodontitis, when the bone surrounding the root is damaged. The bone level decreases, and the gums also recede or shrink back exposing the root.
Home Remedies for Exposed Tooth Roots
The simple best way to prevent and even stop gum disease and gum recession from progressing is to practice good oral hygiene.
- Good oral hygiene is the best natural treatment for exposed tooth roots and can be achieved by
cleaning along the gumline and in the pockets. - Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and use fluoride toothpaste. Carefully floss once a day.
- Reduce or eliminate habits that accelerate your chance of developing gum diseases like smoking, excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, poor or acidic diet, and alcohol.
- Control blood sugar if you have diabetes.
Dental Treatments for Exposed Roots
It is not possible to cover the tooth roots naturally with any home remedies, but your dentist can cover the exposed root using the following treatments.
- Composite Resin- Composite bonding resin can be applied and sculpted around the exposed root to seal the affected area. This will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
- Gum Graft- Soft tissue can be placed over the root where no gum tissue exists. The healthy tissue is often taken from the roof of your mouth and then sutured into place. New blood vessels will grow into the graft and become integrated with the surrounding tissue.
A gum graft reduces sensitivity and also prevents root decay, as well as further recession. It will also improve the natural aesthetics of your smile. - Desensitizing Pastes- A gel or paste is applied to the exposed tooth root to block the open dentinal tubules reducing the sensitivity from both cold or hot foods and drink.