The development of tooth decay is the same on both the visible surface of the tooth and the tooth root. Tooth caries occur as a result of acids produced by bacteria in the mouth that feed on sugars. Acids cause abrasion on the tooth surface, causing the tooth surface to decay. Root decay occurs when acids progress and begin to erode the cementum covering the tooth root. Cementum is a substance that has a slightly softer structure than tooth enamel and is susceptible to decay. Caries occurring at the root develop faster than cavities occurring on the tooth surface. Therefore, it needs to be treated as soon as possible. According to research conducted by experts, root caries are more likely to occur in individuals over the age of 50. The main reason for this is gum recession with aging.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing your teeth regularly and not using dental floss can cause a layer of bacteria called plaque to accumulate on the tooth surface and cause tooth decay over time.
Bad Nutrition Habits: Excessive consumption of sugary and starchy foods, especially, can lead to acid formation in the mouth, weakening tooth enamel and causing decay.
Acidic Drinks: Highly acidic drinks (coke, fruit juices, etc.) can erode tooth enamel and lead to decay.
Structure of Teeth: The natural structure of teeth may cause more decay in some people. For example, excessively close alignment of teeth can cause brushing to be difficult and cause plaque accumulation.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Dry mouth can cause decreased saliva secretion and disruption of the acid balance in the mouth. This can also accelerate tooth root decay.
Frequent Snacking Habit: Constant snacking, especially consuming sugary or starchy foods, can lead to plaque accumulation and decay on the teeth.
Dental Erosion: Excessive consumption of acidic drinks and foods, or conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, can erode tooth enamel and cause decay.
Tooth root decay treatment is similar to the treatment of other tooth decay. If you consult a dentist as soon as you notice tooth root decay, it is easier to stop tooth decay and prevent further damage. Fluoride treatments are administered to stop decay. In addition, it is necessary to give due importance to oral and dental hygiene in order to clean plaque from the teeth. It is very important to reduce sugar and carbohydrate consumption.
If the tooth root decay is so advanced that it causes pain to the individual or prevents the tooth from performing its general functions, the tooth must be repaired to treat the decay. During the treatment of the tooth, the specialist dentist removes the decay from the tooth and then treats the tooth by filling the gap with filling materials.
You can follow the steps below to prevent tooth root caries and cavities in other parts of the tooth.
People who are older and have difficulty brushing their teeth for oral and dental hygiene can use an electric toothbrush.
For oral and dental hygiene, do not forget to use dental floss and mouthwash while brushing your teeth. You can also use an interface brush.
Reduce sugar and carbohydrate consumption.
See dentists regularly and have your oral and dental examinations done.
Use fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes.
If you have diseases that may cause root caries, such as receding gums, consult a dentist and have your condition treated. Ask dentists what might be good for your condition.
You can fully protect your oral and dental health by following the recommendations of our specialist dentists.
Decayed tooth root extraction is the process of removing the root of a damaged or infected tooth from the mouth. This procedure is performed to relieve pain, prevent the spread of infection, and reduce the risk of complications.
Deep Tooth Decay: Decays that progress deeper than the enamel layer of the tooth can reach the tooth root and require extraction.
Cracked: As a result of an accident or trauma, the tooth may crack and its root may be damaged.
Dental Infections: In some cases, such as gum disease, the infection can spread to the tooth root.
Examination and X-ray: First of all, a detailed examination is performed by the dentist and the condition of the tooth is checked with an X-ray.
Local Anesthesia: Before the procedure, local anesthesia is applied to prevent pain and discomfort.
Extraction: After anesthesia, the decayed tooth root is carefully removed with special tools.
Healing Process: After the extraction, the treatment instructions recommended by the dentist should be followed. Oral hygiene should be given importance.
Applying a cold compress can reduce swelling.
Hot food and drinks should not be consumed within the first 24 hours.
Painkillers recommended by the dentist should be taken.
You should gently brush your mouth and not rinse it with mouthwash.
Tooth root extraction is generally an uncomplicated procedure when performed by an experienced dentist. However, in some cases, extraction may be difficult due to the structure or location of the tooth. (For example: After wisdom tooth extraction)
No pain is felt during tooth root extraction because local anesthesia is applied before the procedure. However, after the anesthesia wears off, you may feel some slight pain or discomfort. This pain can usually be relieved or reduced with painkillers recommended by the dentist.
If the decayed root tooth is not removed, the infection can spread, increase pain, and damage neighboring teeth or the jawbone. Additionally, an untreated infection can lead to general health problems.
Decayed tooth root extraction usually takes between 20 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the condition and location of the tooth.
When the tooth root decays, it is necessary to first consult a dentist. The dentist evaluates the condition of the tooth and either performs root canal treatment or extracts the root of the tooth. In cases of advanced decay, the tooth may need to be completely extracted.
Contact us to get more information about tooth root decay treatment. Our customer representatives at the call center can make an appointment with our dentist of your choice and answer all your questions about tooth decay treatment.