Exposed Tooth Root: Causes And Symptoms

If your teeth suddenly feel sensitive and you’re experiencing pain or discomfort while eating something hot or cold, you might not associate that with exposed tooth roots. But tooth sensitivity can be an early sign of a tooth root being exposed. Find out how to recognize and treat this condition, so your teeth feel healthy and pain-free again!

The tooth roots are the part of the tooth inside the bone socket. They’re covered by a connective tissue known as cementum, which is hard but not as hard as tooth enamel. So, if the tooth roots are exposed, the cementum can quickly decay or wear away with brushing.

Tooth roots contain dentin and nerve pulp, so if the cementum is worn out, the dentin's tubules allow hot, cold, acidic, or sticky foods to stimulate the nerves inside the roots, causing sensitivity.

So how are the nerves in your tooth roots exposed? The root of a tooth is typically covered and supported by gum, cementum, and bone. If this support disappears, the root is exposed, and ultimately the nerves inside the tooth roots are exposed.

In some cases, receding gums or exposed tooth roots are the result of wear and tear of years of aggressive brushing. But they can also be caused by gum disease or periodontal disease. Other possible causes include smoking and tobacco use, tooth grinding, and misaligned teeth.

We’ve already talked about how tooth sensitivity can be a sign of an exposed tooth root. This is often the first noticeable symptom. Another sign is your teeth appearing to look longer than before. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are symptoms of gum disease that might also be related to having a tooth root exposed.

The American Academy of Periodontology recommends that root coverage procedures like gum graft surgery reduce further gum recession and protect your roots from decay. Consult with your dentist or periodontist to determine if this is the right option for your teeth.

Your dentist or periodontist could recommend one of the following treatments to protect your exposed tooth root:

As you now know, exposed tooth roots can cause sensitivity, causing pain and discomfort. To minimize tooth nerve pain while you await treatment and avoid further recession, be sure to watch what you eat and maintain good oral hygiene. 

Here are some tips to help provide pain relief for exposed tooth roots:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing aggressively.

• Try toothpastes designed to reduce sensitivity.

• Avoid eating hot, cold or high sugar foods which can trigger pain and irritation. 

• Place a cold compress on your cheek or jaw to minimize swelling and relieve pain. 

• Avoid mouthwash that contains alcohol which can irritate sensitive nerves.

• Eat soft foods and avoid spice and sugar.

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen (check with your doctor first).

You can also try home remedies for toothaches to relieve pain from exposed tooth roots or nerves. One that’s recommended is a tea bag compress, since some teas can have certain anti-inflammatory properties. Steep a tea bag for 1-2 minutes then cool it in the freezer. Place on the sore tooth root to relieve pain. You may want to try peppermint tea as it also contains cooling menthol.

If you don’t treat your exposed tooth roots, you can develop periodontal disease, which can eventually destroy the bones and soft tissues supporting the teeth and result in tooth loss. If periodontitis advances further, your tooth can become loose, fall out, or have to be extracted.

It’s natural to feel alarmed if you are suddenly experiencing tooth sensitivity or your teeth appear longer than usual. But don’t worry! Your dentist or periodontist knows exactly how to treat your exposed tooth roots. So don’t put off visiting the dentist. The sooner you get treated, the sooner you can enjoy some of your favorite foods without twinging in pain.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.