Common Dental Issues: Filling, Extraction, and X-Ray Insights

Q: Common Dental Issues: Filling, Extraction, and X-Ray Insights

Hello： 1. <br>If you have recently had dental work done and are experiencing floss getting stuck, you may return for a follow-up appointment for the dentist to check if a re-treatment is necessary, or if the issue is due to misalignment of the teeth causing difficulty with flossi

Dental filling and tooth extraction issues?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a few questions:
1.
Over the past couple of days, I have noticed that when I floss between two specific teeth, the dental floss sometimes gets stuck (I use a floss pick).
After inserting the floss into the gap between the teeth and gums, I can't pull it out.
I have to wiggle it or pull hard for it to come out unexpectedly.
It feels like it might be an issue with a filling (I rarely experienced this before, so I'm not sure if I just recently noticed it).
Should I see a dentist to have it smoothed out or to get the filling redone?
2.
In recent years, I have discovered cavities between my teeth, but the dentist did not find them during examinations.
They were only detected accidentally when I had a full-mouth X-ray.
Is this situation common? Should I consider getting a full-mouth X-ray every year as a precaution, or can cavities between teeth generally be detected during regular check-ups?
3.
Based on the X-ray I have below, do I need to see a specialist for wisdom tooth extraction? (I'm not sure if it's considered impacted and whether surgery is necessary) (Will it damage the nerves?) (This X-ray was taken about six months ago) X-ray: https://lurl.cc/8cOTo Thank you!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/20

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
If you have recently had dental work done and are experiencing floss getting stuck, you may return for a follow-up appointment for the dentist to check if a re-treatment is necessary, or if the issue is due to misalignment of the teeth causing difficulty with flossing.
If not, it is recommended to check for cavities or cracks.
2.
Typically, dental insurance covers X-rays every three years.
If there is a need for out-of-pocket expenses, it is advisable to discuss this with the treating dentist.
3.
Since it is very close to the second molar in the front, it is not considered an easy tooth to manage, so it is recommended to seek treatment at an oral surgery department in a medical center.

Reply Date: 2024/07/20

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding common dental issues, including fillings, extractions, and X-ray insights. I understand that dental health can be a source of concern, and I’m here to provide clarity on your issues.

1. Issues with Dental Floss Getting Stuck: It's not uncommon for dental floss to get stuck between teeth, especially if there are existing fillings or if the teeth are misaligned. If you find that floss is consistently getting stuck between specific teeth, it could indicate that the filling is too high or that there is a rough edge that needs to be smoothed out. In such cases, it would be advisable to visit your dentist. They can assess the situation and determine if the filling needs to be adjusted or if there are other underlying issues, such as cavities or gum disease, that need to be addressed.

2. Cavities in Between Teeth: It is indeed possible for cavities to develop in between teeth and go unnoticed during a visual examination. This is particularly true for areas that are difficult to see without X-rays. Dental X-rays are crucial for detecting cavities that are not visible to the naked eye, especially in the interproximal areas (the spaces between teeth). While routine check-ups typically include visual inspections, many dentists recommend taking X-rays every 1-2 years, depending on your dental health history and risk factors. If you have a history of cavities, it may be prudent to discuss with your dentist the possibility of having X-rays taken more frequently to catch any issues early.

3. Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Regarding your wisdom teeth, the decision to extract them often depends on their position and whether they are causing any issues. If your X-ray indicates that the wisdom teeth are impacted (meaning they are not fully erupted or are growing at an angle), it may be necessary to consult an oral surgeon or a dentist who specializes in extractions. The risk of nerve damage is a concern with impacted wisdom teeth, especially if they are located close to the mandibular nerve. A dental professional can evaluate your X-ray and provide a recommendation based on the depth of the impaction and the proximity to the nerves.

In summary, it’s essential to maintain regular dental check-ups and communicate any changes or concerns you have with your dentist. If you are experiencing issues with flossing, cavities, or wisdom teeth, seeking professional advice is the best course of action. Your dentist can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific situation, ensuring that you receive the appropriate care.

If you have further questions or need clarification on any of these points, please feel free to reach out. Your dental health is important, and I encourage you to take proactive steps in addressing any concerns you may have.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

[Your Contact Information]

Similar Q&A

Understanding Tooth Filling Issues: Concerns and Solutions for Students

Hello Doctor, Around December, I went to the hospital for a dental cleaning, and the dentist informed me that there was a cavity between my upper right back teeth, specifically an interproximal cavity. I was already aware of this because another dentist from the same hospital h...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Cavities between teeth can be filled using traditional composite resin or silver amalgam (which is covered by health insurance), or with 3D computer-assisted ceramic blocks, although this option requires out-of-pocket payment. If there is sensitivity or pain after the filling, it...

Common Dental Filling Questions: When to Repair and What to Watch For

Hello, Doctor. I have a few questions to ask: 1. I have a resin filling on the occlusal surface that has developed small wear holes over the years. The orthodontist believes it can be filled or just the small holes can be filled directly; however, the general dentist thinks tha...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: 1. If there is no impact on aesthetics or function, and both doctors have advised against active intervention, it is recommended to simply monitor the situation. 2. If X-rays have been taken and confirmed to be normal, and you do not subjectively experience any swelling, p...

Conflicting Dental Diagnoses: How to Navigate Cavity Concerns

Hello, Doctor: At the end of June, I had a full mouth X-ray taken at a newly opened clinic, which revealed a dark shadow on my second molar (this tooth had a large silver filling done five years ago due to deep decay, but it is not close to the nerve). There was also a dark shado...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Anonymous, Hello! As mentioned, both dental clinics are very thorough. They perform X-rays, and generally, the approach is as follows: if there are symptoms, clinical findings are corroborated with X-ray results; if there are no symptoms, any findings on the X-ray shoul...

Managing Dental Issues: Prioritizing Treatment for Oral Health Concerns

Doctor, may I ask in what order I should address my oral condition? For the past six months, the two lower left teeth have been intermittently itchy and slightly painful. In the last two months, the two upper left teeth have also started to experience occasional mild pain, which ...

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Li Qiuqiu, Regarding your inquiries, please find the responses below: 1. Trust the recommendations of the attending physician regarding the treatment plan. 2. Your oral issues are complex and cannot be resolved in a short period. 3. It is advisable to visit a medical c...