Understanding Tooth Decalcification: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Demineralization of teeth Hello, doctor. I have two calcified teeth, and there is a molar in between them that is divided into four cusps. One of the cusps is a different color, a bit gray, while the other three are pearly white. Recently, I have been experiencing pain while brus...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If a tooth has already split into four pieces, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially since there is already a symptom of "pain," indicating that the tissue has been injured. If this issue is ignored, there may be a risk of infe...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decalcification: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
How Long Does It Take for a Wisdom Tooth to Stop Growing?
How long does it take for a single wisdom tooth to stop growing after it has erupted? The lower right wisdom tooth has emerged slightly (I can clearly feel it with my tongue and can see a small portion in the mirror), but the next day when I touch the same spot with my tongue, I ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to have regular X-ray imaging, as long-term objective imaging is more accurate than relying solely on subjective sensations from tongue examination.[Read More] How Long Does It Take for a Wisdom Tooth to Stop Growing?
Accidentally Swallowed Dental Amalgam: What to Do Next?
Accidentally ingested a whole piece of silver powder filling material? Hello doctor, I just discovered a gap in my tooth after eating, and I accidentally ingested a whole piece of dental amalgam. I have already induced vomiting, but I cannot confirm if it was expelled. After rese...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to first consult a family medicine or general internal medicine physician to investigate the cause of vomiting. If the ingested metal is less than 2.5 cm and does not have sharp edges, it is advised to continue monitoring with X-rays or endoscopy. Additio...[Read More] Accidentally Swallowed Dental Amalgam: What to Do Next?
Understanding Root Canal Treatment: Managing Pain and Swelling After Procedure
Root canal treatment Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. I previously had a root canal treatment on one of my teeth, so I have some understanding of the experience. Now, I have another tooth that has a problem. I went to a different dental clinic, and the doctor said I...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Please finish taking the medication prescribed by your doctor as scheduled. Additionally, you can seek emergency treatment at a nearby dental clinic or hospital (which accepts walk-in appointments). Also, contact your original clinic by phone to schedule a follow-up visit ...[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Treatment: Managing Pain and Swelling After Procedure
Understanding Gum Bumps: Common Concerns After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Inquiry for clarification? Dear Dr. Lin, Hello. My lower right wisdom tooth was extracted over a decade ago, and the area is now edentulous gum tissue. Around July of last year, I noticed a semi-circular protrusion on the gum tissue, approximately 0.2 cm in size, which appears p...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you are concerned about oral cancer, it is recommended to go directly to a hospital or medical center and consult with oral pathology or oral surgery. The suspicious areas can be locally excised and sent for biopsy. Soft tissue biopsies or tumor removals are covered ful...[Read More] Understanding Gum Bumps: Common Concerns After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Will Teeth Gaps Widen After Upper Jaw Expansion and Tooth Extraction?
After maxillary expansion and the extraction of two molars, will the spaces between the teeth gradually increase once orthodontic treatment is completed? Doctor: Hello! I am undergoing orthodontic treatment. The doctor recommended first performing maxillary expansion and extracti...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Typically, after orthodontic treatment is completed, the vast majority of cases will use retainers to stabilize the teeth and prevent them from shifting in the short term. Retainers can also be placed on the lingual side to avoid affecting aesthetics, and they can be made ...[Read More] Will Teeth Gaps Widen After Upper Jaw Expansion and Tooth Extraction?
Can You Re-Treat a Root Canal After Getting a Dental Post?
After a root canal treatment, there may be sudden pain after a period of time? Can a root canal be performed if there is a dental implant?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Wang: 1. If you experience sudden pain after a root canal treatment, it may be due to a crack in the treated tooth, leading to a bacterial infection. It is advisable to return for a check-up with your dentist. 2. Successful removal of the dental post is necessary before...[Read More] Can You Re-Treat a Root Canal After Getting a Dental Post?
Understanding Chronic Pulpitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Chronic pulpitis issues? Hello, Doctor! I apologize for the lengthy message. During my middle school years, I had a cavity filled, and everything was fine until I graduated from high school. However, in my freshman year of college, I suddenly experienced pain (sharp pain) when bi...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: I recommend that you visit a local medical center and consult with a prosthodontist, where you can have X-rays taken for confirmation and receive an accurate diagnosis. If it is simply pulpitis, there are indeed reversible and irreversible forms. If it has progressed to ap...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Pulpitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Tooth Cracks: Treatment Options and Solutions
Tooth fracture issues? Hello, Doctor. While eating, I cracked a tooth. After a preliminary examination, it was found that there is a radial crack on the crown of my upper right molar, which seems to be a superficial crack that has not reached the root yet. Currently, I experience...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, Student Wu: 1. All the above treatment methods are acceptable, but if you proceed directly with the crown and experience inflammation and pain in the tooth nerve, it will be necessary to drill a hole in the crown to perform a root canal treatment, or to remove the crown ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Cracks: Treatment Options and Solutions
Should You Extract Wisdom Teeth at a Clinic or Hospital?
Wisdom tooth extraction I would like to ask the doctor, because I have a cavity in my lower right wisdom tooth, the dentist recommended extraction. However, after reviewing my X-ray, they noted that it is close to the nerve, and I am a bit afraid because I have heard that imprope...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, it is recommended to visit a large hospital to see an oral surgeon for extraction, as it would be more reassuring.[Read More] Should You Extract Wisdom Teeth at a Clinic or Hospital?
Understanding Infection Risks in Dental Clinics: COVID-19 Concerns
Infection rate Doctor, I visited the dentist today. If my previous patient tested positive for COVID-19 and I was treated while lying on the same chair afterward, what is the likelihood of infection? I changed my clothes and cleaned up when I got home, but I wasn't wearing a...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: There is no need to dwell on things that have already happened. To prevent COVID-19 infection, it is recommended to wash your hands frequently, wear a mask, use mouthwash containing Chlorhexidine, and consider using Cetylpyridinium Chloride lozenges, all of which can help ...[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks in Dental Clinics: COVID-19 Concerns
Is My Oral Hygiene Routine Enough? Expert Advice on Dental Care
Oral hygiene issues inquiry? Hello, doctor. In the past, I did not pay much attention to dental care, brushing only twice a day and using dental floss sticks, which resulted in several cavities, one root canal, and one molar that is about to be declared for root canal treatment. ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, it should be quite sufficient. If time permits, you can use different sections of dental floss for cleaning.[Read More] Is My Oral Hygiene Routine Enough? Expert Advice on Dental Care
Do I Really Need a Root Canal for My Tooth with No Symptoms?
Root canal treatment? I would like to ask the doctor. A few days ago, I went to a dental clinic for a full-mouth X-ray examination and was informed that one of my teeth has a small chip and needs a root canal treatment. I understand that once the nerve is removed, the tooth will ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have doubts about a diagnosis from a single physician, it is indeed advisable to seek a second opinion. It is recommended to consult with an oral diagnosis specialist or an endodontist, as they would better meet your needs.[Read More] Do I Really Need a Root Canal for My Tooth with No Symptoms?
Can Dental Fillings Be Replaced to Prevent Root Canal Treatment?
Can dental fillings be replaced or updated? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have had three fillings that have resulted in nerve necrosis requiring root canal treatment. Since there are several other fillings that have been in place for a long time, I am concerned about the possibility...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Wei: If there is a fracture or detachment in the filling, or if you experience sensitivity to hot or cold, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for evaluation. If necessary, the filling material may need to be removed, and then conside...[Read More] Can Dental Fillings Be Replaced to Prevent Root Canal Treatment?
Understanding Dental Crown Polishing: Common Concerns and Solutions
Orthodontic bracket polishing and grinding? Hello, Doctor. I have a tooth that underwent root canal treatment, had a screw placed in it, and was then capped. Recently, during a routine dental cleaning, I mentioned to the dentist that the gum around this tooth occasionally feels s...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen: 1. Dentures can be adjusted, but they need to be polished afterward to avoid irritating the gums or tongue. 2. Generally, after polishing, they should not feel rough; however, if a metal crown is ground down and breaks, it may feel very rough. 3. It is recommended...[Read More] Understanding Dental Crown Polishing: Common Concerns and Solutions
Fixed Dentures Dislodged: Should You Reposition Them for Better Fit?
The fixed dental prosthesis has come loose, and reattaching it feels like it is flipped sideways compared to its original position? If a patient has had their fixed dentures dislodged due to eating overly sticky food and subsequently had them reattached by a dentist, but is exper...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Bystander A: Generally, if the appliance is worn in the wrong direction, it is unlikely to fit completely. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment to have the dentist check it again. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, N...[Read More] Fixed Dentures Dislodged: Should You Reposition Them for Better Fit?
Understanding the Impact of Missing Upper Second Molar on Dental Health
Second molar issues Hello Doctor: The first and second molars on the lower left side of my mouth were treated with a dental bridge many years ago. Currently, the upper second molar cannot be preserved, and the dentist at the clinic mentioned that if I do not plan for an implant (...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: (1) As you mentioned, under normal circumstances, there should not be any significant impact in the short to medium term. (2) We may need to wait for any issues or conditions related to the dental bridge in the future before we can propose solutions and provide a reasonabl...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Missing Upper Second Molar on Dental Health
Understanding Gum Growth: What to Do About a Red Bump on Gums
A growth on the gums? Hello Doctor, my mother has developed a raised, reddish lesion on her gums that is a deeper color than the surrounding gum tissue. It has been present for about a year (she mentioned it appeared before last year's Lunar New Year). Since it is not painfu...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have a history of smoking or betel nut chewing, you can go to a medical institution's dental or otolaryngology department for a free oral cancer screening. It is recommended to call ahead to avoid making a trip for nothing. Additionally, if you already have a h...[Read More] Understanding Gum Growth: What to Do About a Red Bump on Gums
Why Do Mouth Sores Keep Recurring? Understanding Healing and Prevention
Repeatedly biting the same area? Hello Doctor: Two weeks ago, I bit my mouth and developed an ulcer. Last week, just as it was healing, I accidentally bit the same spot again. After another week (yesterday), a blister formed on the wound. I did not pop it, but it had burst by the...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you only notice the biting injuries upon waking up, it may be necessary to rule out the possibility of nocturnal bruxism. It is recommended to initially use a soft occlusal splint to separate the teeth from the delicate mucosa, allowing the injured area to heal. The pre...[Read More] Why Do Mouth Sores Keep Recurring? Understanding Healing and Prevention
Do You Need Implants for Your Second Molars?
Does the second molar need to be replaced with a dental implant? The upper and lower first and second molars on the left side have decayed down to the roots. The dental clinic I originally visited said that extraction and dental implants are necessary. I am considering going to a...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Considering your age, if a physician has confirmed that the damaged tooth is untreatable or can only undergo ineffective treatment, dental implants would indeed be a better restorative option. Chang Gung Memorial Hospital is a medical center and should provide you with exc...[Read More] Do You Need Implants for Your Second Molars?