What Are Root Cavities?

What are root cavities, you ask? Root cavities are an especially nasty form of tooth decay that attacks the root of the tooth. Tooth decay is one of the oral health diseases most responsible for tooth loss. People usually think of it happening in the form of cavities on the crown of the tooth. However, for the unfortunate, which includes many older adults, root cavities are a much more insidious problem.

Root Cavity Basics

Root cavities are especially problematic because they are difficult to detect and can result in decay spreading much more quickly than with cavities on the tooth crown. Root cavities attack the root especially when it is exposed due to gum recession. Part of the reason they’re such a difficult problem is due to the fact that roots lack the hard enamel that covers the tooth’s crown. Instead, they are covered by cementum, which is thinner and affords less protection.  The roots, which are usually covered by gum tissue, depend on that coverage for protection against bacteria.  Without that protection, the decay can spread faster, attacking the nerve and producing severe pain. In some cases, extreme root damage can cause the tooth to break off completely.

If left untreated, root cavities can ultimately lead to tooth loss.  A root canal can be performed if root damage is minimal and no decay has not invaded the inner areas of the tooth. Earlier detection can make remedial efforts far simpler and less painful. Ultimately, the best strategy is to prevent root cavities from forming in the first place. This begins with a committed daily regimen of brushing and flossing supplemented with regular dental visits.

The Water Floss Advantage

A strong oral hygiene routine is essential to keeping your teeth healthy.  Regular dental visits, brushing at least twice a day, and flossing once daily can be raised to another level with water flossing. The AQ-230 and AQ-350 water flossers from Aquapick are two models that deliver powerful cleaning capability highly suitable for at-home oral care. Their IPX7 waterproofing and ergonomic design provide safe, comfortable deep cleaning between teeth and other difficult-to-reach areas of the mouth. The cordless AQ-230’s compact portability and large 200ml tank enable cleaning convenience anywhere.

The space-saver countertop AQ-350 uses smart start sensing technology to automatically clean areas often inaccessible to traditional toothbrushes and floss. Both models produce 0.6 mm ultra-fine streams of water that efficiently flush food debris and bacteria from between teeth. Multiple, easily adjustable settings make AQ-230 and AQ-350 appropriate for children and adults.

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