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Do you have “long teeth?” Gum recession and exposed tooth roots can cause a variety of different dental concerns. From an increased risk of root-surface cavities and tooth sensitivity to a higher chance of tooth loss, the more root that’s exposed the worse it is for your oral health. Not to mention additional aesthetic problems that it causes.

The treatment for exposed tooth roots varies. Here are some of the most common types of exposed root treatments that you might want to consider:

Bonding Over the Root

One of the most traditional options for people with mild abrasion or exposure to their roots is bonding over that space. Dental bonding is a tooth-colored material that mimics white dental fillings. It’s shaped directly onto the tooth, then cured in place with a bright light. Like fillings, bonding can last for several years. While it does not correct the cause of your gum recession, it can quickly mask the visible signs of root exposure in some cases.

The downside to bonding is that it doesn’t correct the cause of your gum recession or keep it from getting worse. Additionally, bonding material can also stain over time, causing unwanted discoloration around the edges of the restoration. It might even irritate the gums, triggering additional gum loss.

Soft Tissue Grafting

Your gums are the natural and preferred cover for tooth roots. If trauma, disease, or aggressive toothbrushing is causing your gums to recede, it may be possible to raise the height of your gumline through soft tissue grafting.

Soft tissue grafts can be shaped over your exposed roots in a way that looks as natural as possible. Placing a graft also helps to protect the adjacent gums and bones, which are already at an increased risk of additional recession. There are a variety of different types of gum grafts available to our patients and Dr. Saunders will discuss which ones are best for you.

Pocket Reduction

If your gum recession is caused by periodontal disease, it may be difficult to treat the oral infection that’s contributing to tissue loss. In some cases, we actually lengthen your crown and reduce the height of your gums to allow for better home care. While this may seem counterintuitive if you have exposed tooth roots, pocket reduction can help to improve your overall dental health and prevent additional tissue loss.

Periodontal Plastic Surgery

Our periodontal plastic surgery treatments involve various techniques where the gumlines are adjusted, improved, and treated for aesthetic purposes. Your particular care plan may involve a combination of laser therapy, soft tissue grafting, or other types of treatment depending on the unique characteristics of your gum tissues. Dr. Saunders will walk you through the process to determine how you want your gums to look and what can be done to address your aesthetic concerns.

Learn More

Discover how to safeguard your smile, enhance aesthetics, and feel great about the way your teeth look. Call our experienced periodontist in The Woodlands today to learn more about cosmetic dentistry options for your gums!