The Consequences of Gum Disease: Tooth Sensitivity and Exposed Roots
At Bell Dental, we are proud to offer a full selection of restorative dentistry treatment options, ranging from dental bridges to full mouth reconstruction. Included in our restorative dentistry options are treatments for exposed tooth roots, the most common cause of tooth sensitivity among adults. There is a reason, of course, that the roots of a tooth are protected from outside elements by the periodontal tissues, or the gums. These roots are never meant to be exposed - and in a healthy mouth, they never are. However, when gum disease causes the periodontal tissues to become eroded, the tooth roots can be exposed, and tooth sensitivity can ensue.
While tooth sensitivity may seem like a nightmare to have to live with, it is actually just a symptom of worse oral health problems on the horizon. If the gum disease underlying the exposed tooth roots is left untreated, tooth loss will eventually be inevitable. It is for this reason that tooth sensitivity should always be taken seriously. Our experienced dentists, Dr. Brian Bell and Dr. Justin Crocker, encourage those who are experiencing tooth sensitivity to schedule an appointment at Bell Dental for a thorough oral exam right away. Our dentists explain the connection between tooth sensitivity and exposed roots in detail during consultations at their Lake Jackson, TX dental practice and then examine the mouth to determine whether exposed roots are indeed the cause of the sensitivity.
If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity, please schedule your consultation with Dr. Bell or Dr. Crocker at Bell Dental today.
How Do Tooth Roots Become Exposed?
Gum disease is the most common disease among American adults, affecting roughly three-quarters of the population to varying degrees. In its earliest stages, gum disease often does not produce clear symptoms, leading many people to believe that their mouths are in good health. Those who visit the dentist regularly for oral exams and professional cleanings have a distinct advantage over those who don’t, as they can have gum disease diagnosed in its earliest stage, gingivitis, when it is easiest to treat. When gum disease is left untreated, it develops into its more advanced stage, periodontitis.
One of the consequences of periodontitis is that the gums will eventually begin to pull away from the teeth, leaving the roots exposed. The tooth roots will immediately be sensitive and, as they become damaged by exposure to bacteria and debris over time, painful as well. Fortunately, at this point, it is still possible to return the gums and the teeth to good health through restorative dentistry. If left untreated, however, the affected teeth will eventually be lost.
There is simply no reason to live with tooth sensitivity, let alone the risk of tooth loss. You could be just a few dental appointments away from a pain-free mouth and outstanding oral health.
Learn More about Tooth Sensitivity and Exposed Roots
If you would like to learn more about tooth sensitivity and exposed tooth roots, please contact Bell Dental today.
