What is root surface decay and why is it different from a regular cavity?: Willow Glen Dental Center: General Dentists (2024)

You may wonder how root surface decay differs from a regular cavity; Keep reading to learn more about why it's so important to take care of this condition right away.

What is root surface decay?

Root surface decay - also known as root cavities, root decay or root caries - is a condition in which the gums recede and expose the root of the tooth to decay. Because the root does not have tough enamel like the crown of the tooth, the root is much more likely to develop cavities.

Root cavities are much more serious than regular cavities because the decay is much more likely to reach the central nerve, which can compromise the health of the entire tooth.

Below are some causes of root surface decay:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Disposition due to genetics
• Diabetes
• Use of tobacco
• Aggressive or hard brushing
• Stomp trauma
• Rubber recession caused by aging
• Side effects of certain medications

Symptoms of root surface decay

If you're not entirely sure whether you're dealing with root cavities, consider the symptoms that often accompany root surface decay:

• Extreme sensitivity to heat and cold
• Discoloration
• Dark spots near the root of the tooth and the gum line
• Looseness of teeth or teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Constant toothache
• Gummi recession
• Infection in the gums around a tooth or teeth

Symptoms may vary from case to case; the severity of the decay will determine how severe the symptoms are.

Treatment options for root cavities

The treatment method used to treat your root surface decay depends on the severity of the recession and decay. Common treatment options include:

• Periodontal treatments: Periodontal disease – or gum disease – is a condition in which large amounts of bacteria lead to the recession of gums and bone. If periodontal disease is the cause of your recession, your dentist will ensure that you undergo periodontal treatment to help the gums heal.
• Restorations (fillings): If tooth decay is minimal, a filling can be made to restore the integrity of the tooth. To do this, the damaged tooth material is removed and replaced with a tooth-colored resin filling material.
• Root canal treatment: If the tooth decay is extensive and has reached the central nerve, a root canal treatment will be necessary to preserve the life of the tooth. During a root canal treatment, both the decay and the infected root are removed from the tooth, after which it is thoroughly cleaned. The central canal is then filled with a synthetic material before finally being sealed with a large filling. It is then usually recommended to have a crown placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage.

Willow Glen Dental Center: Beste tandarts in San Jose

Here at Willow Glen Dental Center, we are always ready to help you manage your oral health in the best way possible.

Willow Glen Dental Center is proud to offer the best comprehensive dental services in San Jose. For more information about root cavities or to schedule an appointment at our San Jose dental office, please call us at(408) 266-6144.

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