Common Dental Concerns: Oral Mucosa Changes and Tooth Integrity

Q: Common Dental Concerns: Oral Mucosa Changes and Tooth Integrity

Hello： 1. <br>It is recommended to address the issue of grinding teeth first before considering the removal of the white lines, which can be done using laser treatment; you may consult an oral surgeon for this. <br>2. <br>For cracked natural teeth, strong light should be used alo

Questions regarding oral health and teeth?

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I have some questions regarding oral and dental issues:
Q1.
I have a thickened keratinized white line on the buccal mucosa of the lower left side of my mouth, which I believe is due to long-term occlusal friction from my teeth.
Can this thickened keratinized white line on the buccal mucosa be removed? Can a dentist handle this, or should I consult an oral surgeon or an ENT specialist?
Q2.
Today while chewing, I expelled a small piece of bone, approximately the size of a single sesame seed.
Since I have several fillings, I am a bit concerned that it might be a fragment of a natural tooth or a piece of a filling that has come loose.
However, upon examining my teeth in the mirror and with my phone, I did not notice any obvious abnormalities.
A few of my teeth feel somewhat sensitive and soft, but I recently had a dental cleaning two days ago, so this might be a normal reaction (please correct me if I am wrong).
Dr.
Lin, if a natural tooth has a fracture or if a filling has come loose, what symptoms would typically indicate this?
Thank you, Dr.
Lin.

Kris, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/24

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
It is recommended to address the issue of grinding teeth first before considering the removal of the white lines, which can be done using laser treatment; you may consult an oral surgeon for this.
2.
For cracked natural teeth, strong light should be used along with gentian violet or other staining agents to check for any cracks or seepage.
Regardless of whether the filling material has fallen out, it can be replaced or renewed every 1.5 to 2 years.

Reply Date: 2024/02/24

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed questions regarding your oral health concerns. Let's address each of your queries systematically.

Q1: Thickened Keratinized White Line on Buccal Mucosa
The thickened keratinized white line on your buccal mucosa is likely a result of chronic friction from your teeth, often referred to as a frictional keratosis. This condition is generally benign, but it can be bothersome. In terms of treatment, the best approach is to eliminate the source of irritation, which in this case would be the biting or grinding of your teeth against the mucosa.
If the keratosis is persistent and causing discomfort, it can be evaluated and potentially removed by a dentist or an oral surgeon. Dentists are well-equipped to handle such conditions, but if there are concerns about the nature of the lesion, a referral to an oral surgeon or an ENT specialist may be warranted for further evaluation and management.

Q2: Concern About Possible Tooth Damage
Regarding the small piece of bone you expelled while chewing, it’s understandable to be concerned about the integrity of your teeth, especially if you have existing dental work. If you suspect that a tooth has cracked or that a filling has come loose, there are several signs to look for:
1. Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli can indicate a problem with the tooth.

2. Pain: Persistent or sharp pain when biting down or chewing can suggest that there is a fracture or an issue with the dental work.

3. Visible Damage: If you notice any visible cracks, chips, or changes in the contour of the tooth, this is a clear sign that something may be wrong.

4. Changes in Bite: If your bite feels off or if teeth that previously fit together well no longer do, this could indicate a problem.

Since you mentioned that you recently had your teeth cleaned, some sensitivity can be normal as your teeth adjust after the cleaning. However, if the sensitivity persists or worsens, or if you notice any of the above symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a thorough examination.

Additional Considerations
It's important to maintain regular dental check-ups, especially if you have a history of dental work. Regular visits allow your dentist to monitor any changes in your oral health and address potential issues before they become more serious.
In addition, if you are experiencing discomfort due to the keratinized tissue or any other oral health issue, consider discussing your symptoms with your dentist. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation.

Conclusion
In summary, the keratinized white line can be evaluated and potentially treated by a dentist, while any concerns regarding tooth integrity should be assessed through a dental examination. Regular dental visits are key to maintaining oral health and addressing any issues early on. If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider. They are there to help you maintain a healthy and comfortable smile!

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