If your teeth look longer than they used to or you have new sensitivity near the gumline, you may be dealing with exposed tooth roots. Exposed tooth roots are a common problem, especially in older adults, and usually happen when the gums pull back from the teeth. Exposed tooth roots can cause significant sensitivities, and so people with exposed roots often look for remedies, including at-home care. While there are things people with exposed roots can do at home to help the symptoms, there are limits to what can be accomplished. Read on to learn more about at-home care for exposed teeth.
What is an exposed tooth root?
The root of a tooth sits below the gumline and helps hold the tooth in place. Under normal circumstances, the root is supposed to stay covered by gum tissue. When the gums recede, the root becomes exposed.
Exposed roots can cause many complications, including increased sensitivity and pain. An exposed root can also decay more easily. That is why it should be checked by a dentist, even if the pain is mild.
Can you fix exposed roots naturally?
You cannot fully fix an exposed tooth root naturally. Once gum tissue recedes, it does not grow back like skin after a scrape. Home care cannot replace missing gum tissue or cover the root again.
Home care can slow the problem down, however. It can reduce irritation, protect the exposed area, and help prevent more recession. Slowing the problem down matters because the longer the root stays exposed without care, the higher the risk of sensitivity, decay, and infection.
What are natural treatments that can help?
There are numerous things that you can do at home to help an exposed root situation. The most common include:
- Gentle brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush twice a day, but do not scrub the gumline. Gentle, consistent cleaning is better than brushing harder.
- Floss once a day or use another tool your dentist recommends, such as interdental brushes or a water flosser. Cleaning between the teeth helps control plaque near the gums.
- Use toothpaste for sensitivity. It will not cover the root, but it can make cold drinks, hot foods, and brushing less painful over time.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. These can irritate exposed roots and increase the risk of root decay.
- If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a nightguard.
- If you smoke, quitting can improve gum health and reduce the chance of the recession getting worse.
When do you need a dentist?
You should see a dentist if you think a root is exposed. The treatment depends on the cause. If gum disease is present, a deep cleaning may be needed. If the root is sensitive, your dentist may apply a desensitizing treatment. If the root surface needs protection, bonding may be used. For a more severe recession, a gum graft may be recommended. This is why the sooner you see a dentist, the better.
What’s the bottom line?
You cannot fix exposed tooth roots naturally, but you can take steps at home to protect the tooth and keep the problem from getting worse. Brush gently, floss daily, use sensitivity toothpaste if needed, and see your dentist. Early treatment can help protect the tooth and avoid more serious problems later.
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