Is exposed tooth roots an emergency?
It is vital for patients to maintain good oral health as it can impact their appearance, overall health, and overall well-being. Dental health issues can unfortunately be quite common and range from extremely minor to severe. Patients who neglect their oral hygiene and have untreated issues or poor oral health often experience serious problems with long-term consequences.
In order to maintain healthy teeth and gums, patients must have good oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing the teeth at least twice each day, daily flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. Even when patients are diligent in maintaining good oral hygiene, oral health issues can still happen. Exposed tooth roots is an issue which can impact patients.
When the roots become exposed, it should be taken seriously, and patients should seek treatment right away. The issue is not considered to be an emergency; however, prompt treatment helps prevent further damage and preserve the natural tooth. When exposed roots remain untreated over time, it can result in permanent damage.
Various things can cause the roots to slowly become exposed. One common cause of exposed roots is gum disease. Another possible cause is the natural aging process. Over time, it is perfectly normal for the gums to begin receding and expose the roots.
Swollen or inflamed gums can begin to pull away from the teeth. This results in exposed roots which become visible. It is typically obvious when the roots become exposed. The issue is especially pronounced when the affected gums are in the front of the mouth. As with most oral health issues, a positive outcome depends on early detection and prompt treatment. The issue can often be reversed when it is quickly treated.
It can be fairly easy to identify exposed roots as a darker portion of the tooth becomes visible. The newly exposed portion of the tooth also has a different texture compared to the rest of the tooth.
Increased sensitivity is another common sign of an exposed root. Sensitivity is often exaggerated when patients consume hot, cold, or sweet things. Another symptom of exposed roots is when the teeth become loose.
To avoid additional damage, exposed roots should be treated as soon as possible. Various treatment options can resolve the problem. The dentist may choose to place a crown over the affected tooth, which helps protect the root. While waiting for treatment, patients can take an over-the-counter pain medication to manage any discomfort.
In cases where the exposed root causes the tooth to become loose, a root canal treatment may be needed. During a root canal treatment, infected pulp is removed, and a filling material is placed. Root canals can be incredibly successful in preserving the tooth and preventing additional damage. In cases of severe damage, decay, or infection, the tooth may need to be removed.
Prompt treatment of exposed roots is vital in maintaining good oral health and preventing further damage. If a patient thinks their roots may be exposed, they should contact their dentist immediately. While exposed roots are not technically classified as an emergency, prompt treatment prevents further damage and can help preserve the natural tooth.