ROOT decay, also referred to as “root caries”, is a cavity that forms on the roots of your teeth. You can see the roots of your teeth in your mouth if your gums have shrunk from gum disease, brushing improperly or with too hard a toothbrush and some age-related gum changes.

Exposed root surfaces are more common in older adults.

Cavities on the roots of teeth can start faster and spread quicker than cavities on other parts of the tooth. The roots of teeth do not have the protective hard enamel on them so the cavities can expand much faster.

It is harder for the dentist to treat cavities on the roots of teeth. roots caries can spread to the inside of the tooth where the nerve is and sometimes cause a toothache or infection. A large cavity on the root of a tooth can lead to the tooth breaking off and leaving just the root in your mouth.

Leaving a broken tooth in your mouth can also lead to pain and infection.

CAUSES OF ROOT CARIES

Root caries is initiated when bacteria and fermentable carbohydrates attack the root surface. Studies have been conducted to identify the microflora responsible for root caries, and it was found to be the primary initiating microorganism.

Microorganisms metabolise simple sugars into organic acids, which dissolve through plaque that is harboured on the tooth surface. These acids then pass through the root structure and start the process of demineralisation that removes calcium and phosphate ions. This process takes place as the pH reaches the critical value of 6.4 for demineralisation of cementum and dentin, and 5.5 for demineralisation of enamel.

Dramatic effects occur during this process with the collapse of collagen due to dissolution of inorganic minerals and the formation of cavities.

TREATING ROOT CARIES

Treatment of root caries is similar to dental caries. Depending on the extent of the lesion into the tooth structure, the mode of treatment is planned.

Removal of the infected area is done and replacement with restorative material like composites.

WHY DO OLDER ADULTS GET ROOT DECAY?

Older adults are more likely to get cavities on the roots of their teeth because:

1. They are more likely to have gum problems that expose root surfaces.

2. Root surfaces are softer than the top part of the tooth that is made up of enamel thus they and get cavities faster.

3. Older adults are more likely to take medicines that cause dry mouth. Saliva or spit helps protect teeth from cavities. When there is less saliva, there is less natural protection from cavities.

If your mouth is dry, do not suck on hard candies. This makes the cavities get bigger. Use sugar-free hard candies instead.

4. You may have trouble taking care of your mouth because of arthritis or other medical problems such as loss of eyesight. This raises the risk of getting root cavities. If you have had a stroke you may not realise you have food stuck in your mouth, this can also add to your cavity risk.

5. Forgetfulness is a problem too. Leaving reminder notes for yourself to brush and floss is a good way to improve your oral health.

If you have lost some teeth already, it may be harder to chew certain foods. You may choose foods that are easier to chew and are softer. It is very important to brush your teeth after meals with soft food that have starch like bread, potatoes and pasta. These soft foods contribute to cavities just like sugar.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710 or visit the websitewww.dentalplace4u.com