Understanding Root Canal Treatment: What to Do When You Have a Cavity
Root canal treatment Hello, Doctor. During my dental visit this week, the dentist told me that I have a cavity in my molar. After drilling, he mentioned that my previous root canal was not done properly and needs to be redone. However, he said that the procedure would take a long...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to have the original clinic's dentist fill it in first, and then reopen it in April. Otherwise, with an additional two months of waiting time, there is a risk of fracture due to the cavity in the tooth.[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Treatment: What to Do When You Have a Cavity
Understanding Jaw Pain: Is It Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Two weeks ago, I woke up one morning and noticed that when my teeth were clenched, I experienced pain in front of my left ear, which radiated to the area around my left temple. I initially thought that resting for a few days would h...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have already seen two doctors who provided similar diagnoses, it is advisable to follow their recommendations. However, if you are still very concerned, it is suggested that you visit an oral and maxillofacial surgery department at a medical center to determine if a...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Pain: Is It Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
Understanding Dental X-Ray and CT Radiation Risks: Your Questions Answered
X-ray and CT scan radiation concerns? Hello Doctor, I have undergone dental treatment and had a full-mouth X-ray taken 7 times, a 3D CT scan 4 times, and periapical radiographs 4 times within the past six months. I would like to ask you: 1. Is the radiation exposure during this...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you refrain from taking X-rays for the next six months, especially those that require the injection of contrast agents. You have already had a full mouth series of X-rays seven times and CT scans four times, so your physician should be well aware of ...[Read More] Understanding Dental X-Ray and CT Radiation Risks: Your Questions Answered
Troubleshooting Issues with Clear Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment
Incompatible clear aligners? After completing the treatment with clear aligners, I visited the clinic where the dentist took impressions and charged me NT$10,000 for the clear retainers, informing me that there would be a two-week manufacturing period. Two weeks later, during my ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to communicate with your physician, as there is indeed a necessity for retainers after completing orthodontic treatment to prevent the well-aligned teeth from shifting. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Troubleshooting Issues with Clear Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment
Understanding TMJ Disorders: Can Surgery Help Realign Your Jaw?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). I have been suffering from TMJ arthritis for over a year. Initially, I experienced occasional difficulty opening my mouth, but later I ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon for further examination to confirm the necessity of the surgery, the potential therapeutic outcomes post-surgery, and to assess any possible complications. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders: Can Surgery Help Realign Your Jaw?
Understanding Dental Fillings: Symptoms of Resin Loss and When to Seek Help
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Tseng, A few days ago, while eating dumplings, I bit into a slightly hard white object and spat it out. I'm unsure if it was a fragment of bone from the dumpling filling or if it might be a piece of resin that has come off from my dental fillin...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. It is possible to experience sensitivity and pain when consuming hot or cold foods. 2. If the area of the dental filling's resin has a shallow detachment, it may be completely asymptomatic. 3. If there are noticeable symptoms, it is advisable to monitor the situation; how...[Read More] Understanding Dental Fillings: Symptoms of Resin Loss and When to Seek Help
Why Cavities Can Return Within a Year After Dental Fillings
Cavity recurrence one year after dental filling? Dear Doctor, Last year, I had cavities on both sides of my central incisors, which were treated and filled. Recently, the filling came loose, and upon returning to the clinic, the doctor mentioned that there is a new cavity that ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The detachment of restorations is often caused by excessive forces (occlusal or lateral forces), in addition to recurrent caries. If there is malocclusion, a habit of biting into apples, bread, or guavas with the anterior teeth, or if there is a tendency to grind teeth at ...[Read More] Why Cavities Can Return Within a Year After Dental Fillings
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Filling: Causes and Solutions
Dental issues I would like to ask about the fourth molar from the back on the upper left side. I had a cavity filled about a month ago, and for the past two weeks, I've been experiencing sensitivity when eating meat or biting down on food that puts pressure on that tooth. Re...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Since it has only been one month since your last appointment, it is recommended to return for a follow-up visit to have the doctor reassess whether an occlusal adjustment is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Filling: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Gum Abscess Above Steel Tooth in Children: What to Do?
There is a pus-filled abscess on the gum above the molar? Hello Doctor, my child is 10 years old and has had a steel crown on a decayed primary tooth for two years. Last week during a dental check-up, we found a pus-filled bump above the crown. Since the tooth has undergone root ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: According to your description, the tooth above the molar should be the second premolar in adults, which typically erupts by the age of 13. If both doctors have suggested that you observe the situation, it is best to follow their advice. If there is a need to remove the abs...[Read More] Understanding Gum Abscess Above Steel Tooth in Children: What to Do?
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Odor and Gum Height Concerns
One week after wisdom tooth extraction, there is still an odor at the wound site and the gum tissue is elevated? I had my upper wisdom tooth extracted a week ago, and I have finished taking the anti-inflammatory medication. Although there is no pain anymore, there is still an unu...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the smell is unpleasant, or if there is pus or yellow nasal discharge, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment to have the physician confirm whether there is a bacterial infection. You may also need to obtain anti-inflammatory medication.[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Odor and Gum Height Concerns
Why Cavities Can Persist Even After Dental Fillings: What You Need to Know
Cavities have been filled, but there are still cavities present? Hello Doctor, I recently underwent invisible orthodontic treatment, and my primary dentist took care of all my cavities before starting. However, one day I noticed what I suspected to be a cavity because of some bla...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the decay is very close to the nerve and you insist on removing all of it thoroughly, there is a significant chance that it may lead to the need for subsequent root canal treatment. Based on the principle of conservatism, some dentists may suggest preserving the deeper ...[Read More] Why Cavities Can Persist Even After Dental Fillings: What You Need to Know
Understanding Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Remedies
Swelling of the gums around the molars after wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor: Last week I had my impacted wisdom tooth extracted, and today after the stitches were removed, the gum around my second molar is still very swollen (as shown in the picture). It is even covering t...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Because the blood clot in the extraction site takes time to be gradually absorbed and replaced by hard tissue, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene during this period to prevent infection and inflammation, which could affect wound healing. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department...[Read More] Understanding Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Remedies
Impact of Desensitizing Toothpaste on Pulp Vitality Testing
Nerve necrosis Hello, doctor. Does long-term use of sensitivity toothpaste affect the results of pulp vitality tests? Could it cause the nerve to feel less sensitive, leading to a misjudgment of localized nerve necrosis? Does localized necrosis of the dental pulp due to caries le...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Desensitizing toothpaste helps to reduce sensitivity in exposed dentin and does not directly cause nerve necrosis. Additionally, the assessment of pulp nerve necrosis should not rely solely on pulp vitality tests. Localized issues in a single tooth are unlikely to cause ge...[Read More] Impact of Desensitizing Toothpaste on Pulp Vitality Testing
Understanding Baby Tooth Replacement and Orthodontic Costs for Kids
Primary tooth replacement Hello Dr. Lin, my child was examined at the clinic, and the doctor mentioned that his teeth are slightly impacted due to crowding. I would like to inquire about the approximate cost of orthodontic treatment. Thank you!
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a pediatric dentist for more definitive answers, including whether orthodontic treatment is necessary, when to start treatment, the necessity of orthodontics, and potential complications. Additionally, you may want to inquire about the cost, as...[Read More] Understanding Baby Tooth Replacement and Orthodontic Costs for Kids
Uneven Gum Thickness: Should You Be Concerned?
Gum problems The doctor would like to ask about the gums on both sides of my lower jaw, which appear to have different thicknesses—one side is thicker while the other is thinner. I do not feel any particular sensation when touching them with my tongue or a cotton swab. Is there a...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Ian: Hello, it is advisable to get checked as it may be an issue of bone hypertrophy, which is mostly benign. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.[Read More] Uneven Gum Thickness: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Orthodontic Costs for Children's Dental Care
Children's Tooth Eruption Hello, my child is currently in the fourth grade, and the doctor mentioned that he needs orthodontic treatment due to crowding of his teeth. Could you please provide an estimate of the cost for orthodontics? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Ms. Hsieh: Hello, the orthodontic fees are based on the announced rates by the health bureaus of each county and city, with a specific range of charges that may vary depending on the patient's condition and treatment progress. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health a...[Read More] Understanding Orthodontic Costs for Children's Dental Care
Understanding White Bumps in the Throat: Causes and Concerns
Throat issue, a white object has developed in the throat? I suddenly noticed a white round unknown object in my throat one day. It doesn't cause me any discomfort or a foreign body sensation; it just surprises me a bit when I see it while brushing my teeth. I would like to k...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon or an otolaryngologist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui from Nantou Hospital's Dental Department.[Read More] Understanding White Bumps in the Throat: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Sedation Dentistry for Patients with Asperger's Syndrome
Sleep therapy I currently have severe tooth decay in my lower molars, leading to pulpitis. The upper left molar has only a remaining root with signs of resorption, while the upper right molar has decayed again after root canal treatment. My front teeth also have cavities, and I h...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If you experience anxiety or fear about dental visits, it is recommended to go to a medical center's dental department for an evaluation to determine if you need to schedule dental treatment under local anesthesia. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospita...[Read More] Understanding Sedation Dentistry for Patients with Asperger's Syndrome
Impact of Partial Dentures on Alveolar Bone Loss and Facial Aesthetics
Removable dentures vs. alveolar bone atrophy Hello doctor, if a single removable denture is made, is it inevitable that there will be issues with alveolar bone resorption? Will alveolar bone resorption affect facial appearance? Will it impact the adjacent teeth on both sides? Tha...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, the alveolar bone resorption of a single tooth (excluding canines) has minimal impact on facial appearance. The effect on anterior and posterior teeth, however, depends on the overall periodontal and occlusal conditions before a conclusion can be drawn.[Read More] Impact of Partial Dentures on Alveolar Bone Loss and Facial Aesthetics
Why Did My Tooth Start Hurting After a Cleaning? Root Canal Needed?
Is it possible for a tooth that wasn't painful before a dental cleaning to become painful afterward, ultimately requiring root canal treatment? Hello Doctor: Below is my experience during the consultation, and I would appreciate your advice, thank you! Initially, I developed...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: I recommend that you first return to Dr. A, as they are most familiar with your original condition. Please update them on your current situation and inquire whether a root canal treatment is necessary.[Read More] Why Did My Tooth Start Hurting After a Cleaning? Root Canal Needed?