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Tooth decay is also known as root cavities, root decay, and root caries. It is a potentially harmful oral health issue that requires quick treatment to avoid severe dental damage. Visit Jeanne V. Devi DDS to learn more about tooth-root decay, why it occurs, how it is associated with gum disease and soft tissue recession, and to receive the most appropriate dental care for your specific needs.

What Is Gum Recession?

This is a relatively common sensation for elderly people. It has the potential to expose the root surfaces. The roots grow more susceptible to rot and harm. This can result in a slew of diseases that spread fast into the interior of your mouth. This is why you should always remove deteriorated material and fill the root cavity to prevent the infection from spreading. 

Causes of Tooth Root Decay 

• Poor oral hygiene like not brushing and flossing teeth daily.
• As people get older, their gums recede, exposing root surfaces.
• Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an oral health risk that causes periodontal pockets to deepen and soft tissue recession, allowing plaque and germs access to tooth roots.
• Diabetes weakens the immune system and increases soft tissue inflammation, resulting in more severe and difficult-to-treat gum disease and soft tissue recession.
• Crooked teeth are more difficult to fully clean and can raise your risk of gum disease.
• Smoking cigarettes or cigars, dipping, chewing tobacco, or any other form of tobacco use can harm teeth, weaken enamel, cause dry mouth, and raise the risk of gum disease.

How Does Tooth Root Decay Affect Your Teeth Later in Life?

We become increasingly susceptible to dental disorders as we age. Bacteria in the mouth that feed on residual sugar make acid, which erodes the protective enamel of the teeth at high levels. This causes cavities and, if left untreated, deeper infection within the tooth that can spread to the bone through the root canals. However, gum recession, which is prevalent in the elderly, might expose the root surfaces. As a result, the roots are far more prone to rot. 

We can apply fluoride varnish to strengthen the teeth and provide further protection against cavities, or we can prescribe a fluoride rinse for home use. We can also monitor and treat periodontal (gum) disease, which is the leading cause of gum recession.

For the best dental care, visit us at Jeanne V. Devi DDS at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101, or call us at (626) 795-2544 and schedule an appointment.