Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
Added: August 18, 2009 - 4:07 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Irvine, CA
Need Dentist / Specialist:
No
Provide Cost Estimate:
Yes
X-rays Available:
No
Case Summary
Teeth: 22,24,25,27
Last Full Mouth X-Ray: 06/07
Last Cleaning: 06/07
Case Description
I am 24 and I can see the my roots are partially exposed on 4 teeth, with it being very obvious on the lower left canine. I never had braces so my bottom teeth are a little crooked and this tooth is pushed out a little so that could be a contributing factor. I have no sensitivity or pain of any kind, but I'm worried that the exposed roots could also be a sign of gum disease. I brush twice a day and floss a few times a week. I also had cleanings every 6 months throughout my childhood and through college.
There have been several times where my gums have hurt or been sensitive, but that is not currently the case. I want to also be prepared if the dentist I go to for a routine cleaning suggests I need deep cleaning.
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Reply: Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
added: August 18, 2009 - 4:24 PM
Cost Estimate: $ No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
it would be difficult to diagnose with an email response but it sounds like you have some gum recession. Based on exam we might be able to do some gingival (gum) grafting. Please make an appt. for consultation.
Reply: Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
added: August 18, 2009 - 4:26 PM
Cost Estimate: $85
Although you have not have braces in the past your brushing habits(i.e hard brushing or brushing with a medium or hard tooth brush) can contribute to this as well. Your oral hygiene seems to be sufficient and therefore I would not think you would have gum disease or in a need of a deep cleaning. However, without examining you first had no one can diagnose you for sure.If we can be of assistance call us at 323-939-7899.
Reply: Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
added: August 18, 2009 - 5:31 PM
Cost Estimate: $0-100
It sounds like you may have some recession around your lower front teeth. This is a normal process of aging also known as becoming "long in the tooth". Your not at an age though where this applies. I would suggest having your dentist look at it and ask he/she if she recommends to see a periodontist. Sometimes patients have what we call a "thin biotype" for gum tissue - this means the gum tissue is fragile and more prone to recession. The other kind is "thick biotype" and is more resistant to recession. Kind of like comparing the skin on your forearm to that of the palm of your hand. Ideally, you want it more like the palm of your hand. Feel free to call for a no obligation / no charge consultation.Dr. Loberg949-586-1930Laguna Hills
Reply: Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
added: August 18, 2009 - 10:47 PM
Cost Estimate: $$750-$1000
root exposure from a tooth that is pushed out too far forward is a problem that can continue intoa situation that can continue without control if left untreated. The solution for this is consists of a free graft of native or donor tissue that is adde on the outside to add some keratinized tissue. This can bulk out the tissue and provide protection against toothbrush abrasion and increasing sensitivity. The surgical procedure is fairly esay and can be quite predictable if you have no other factors like sysytemic disease or smoking, both of which can be contraindications against the procedure. The treatment can cost about $750, and a little more if more than one site is involved. If you are interested please contact and we can set up a complimentary appointment for you. Fell free to call us anytime at 714-974-4332. I look forwqard to speaking with you.
Reply: Exposed Root but no Sensitivity- Worries about Gum Disease
added: August 19, 2009 - 10:48 AM
Cost Estimate: $650
Well concerned...Exposed roots for a young person your age is a little out of the ordinary. You might be brushing too hard to have some gum issues in that area. A complete exam would be needed to determine the cause..Also. you might be a clencher/grinder which can also lead to gum recession. You may need a night guard and some bite adjustment on those teeth..Good luck hope this helps...Dr Thomas