-
DE
Root Caries: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Root caries is a form of tooth decay that affects the exposed surface of the tooth root. It is common in older adults and requires prompt dental treatment.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "Root caries"
Root caries is a form of tooth decay that affects the exposed surface of the tooth root. It is common in older adults and requires prompt dental treatment.
What is Root Caries?
Root caries is a specific type of dental decay that affects the root surface of a tooth rather than the crown. Normally, the tooth root is protected by the gum tissue. When the gums recede – a condition known as gingival recession – the root cementum becomes exposed. Unlike tooth enamel, root cementum is softer and more vulnerable to acid attacks from bacteria, making it particularly susceptible to decay.
Causes
Root caries develops through the interaction of several factors:
- Gum recession: Exposed root surfaces are the primary prerequisite for root caries. Gum recession can result from periodontitis, aggressive tooth brushing, or natural aging.
- Caries-causing bacteria: Bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species produce acids that attack the root cementum.
- High-sugar diet: Frequent consumption of sugars fuels the growth of harmful oral bacteria.
- Dry mouth (xerostomia): Saliva plays a protective role by delivering minerals and antibacterial compounds to the tooth surface. Reduced saliva flow significantly increases caries risk.
- Older age: Root caries is more prevalent in older adults due to the increased likelihood of gum recession and dry mouth.
Symptoms
Root caries is often painless in its early stages, which can make it difficult to detect. Possible symptoms include:
- Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweet foods and beverages
- Visible dark or soft spots near the gum line
- A rough or sticky surface at the root area
- Toothache in more advanced stages
- In severe cases: abscess or dental infection
Diagnosis
A dentist diagnoses root caries using the following methods:
- Visual examination: Discoloration or soft spots on the root surface may be visible to the naked eye.
- Probing: A dental explorer is used to test the hardness of the root surface. Soft or sticky tissue indicates active caries.
- X-rays: Dental radiographs help assess the extent of decay, especially below the gum line.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the root caries:
Early Stage: Remineralization
In the early stages, root caries can be managed non-invasively through:
- Application of high-concentration fluoride varnishes or gels to promote remineralization of the root surface
- Improved oral hygiene practices and dietary counseling
- Professional dental cleaning (scaling and root planing)
Moderate Stage: Filling
When the decay has progressed further, the damaged tissue must be removed and the cavity restored with a composite filling or another restorative material. If the lesion extends below the gum line, surgical exposure of the cavity may be necessary before restoration.
Severe Cases
If the decay has reached the dental pulp, a root canal treatment may be required. In the most severe cases, extraction of the affected tooth may be necessary.
Prevention
Root caries can be effectively prevented with the following measures:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Regular use of dental floss and interdental brushes
- Reducing sugar intake in the diet
- Routine dental check-ups and professional cleanings
- Treatment of gum disease and gum recession
- Staying well hydrated to prevent dry mouth
References
- Fejerskov O, Kidd E (eds.): Dental Caries – The Disease and its Clinical Management. 2nd ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2008.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Oral Health – Key Facts. Geneva, 2023. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health
- Huysmans MC, Chew HP, Ellwood RP: Clinical studies of dental erosion and erosive wear. Caries Research, 45(Suppl 1):60-68, 2011.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
€22.90
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
€50.00
Regular price:
€59.90
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
€27.90
Regular price:
€29.90
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
€35.90
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.