Addressing Dental Concerns: Polishing, Wear, and Enamel Safety
Inquiry Consultation Dr. Chiu, Hello: I have noticed that part of the incisal edge of my right central incisor feels rough to the touch. I would like to ask you: Q1. In your opinion, can I visit a dentist to "polish (not directly grind)" the rough areas of the incis...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, here are the responses: 1. Polishing is possible, but if the area is too large, it may shorten. 2. Not necessarily. Please seek evaluation at the outpatient clinic. 3. It depends on the depth; please have it assessed at the outpatient clinic. Hualie...[Read More] Addressing Dental Concerns: Polishing, Wear, and Enamel Safety
Managing Tooth Pain After Root Canal: Tips for Recovery and Care
Biting with the same side teeth; root canal treatment? Hello Doctor: I had a root canal treatment on my lower left molar around mid-November. Since it has been a month and I am still experiencing pain, I recently returned for a check-up. An X-ray revealed a dark shadow at the ape...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. Yes, if the inflammation subsides, the shadow will gradually decrease. Typically, follow-up observations are done every 3 to 6 months. If there is improvement, we continue to monitor for recovery. If there is no recovery, we may consider retreatment of the root canal. 2...[Read More] Managing Tooth Pain After Root Canal: Tips for Recovery and Care
Is It a Billing Error? Understanding Simple Oral Incision and Drainage in Dentistry
Simple intraoral incision and drainage? One day, I visited a doctor due to a dental abscess. The doctor only conducted an interview and prescribed medication, without performing any oral surgery or procedures. However, I found that a simple intraoral incision and drainage (92071C...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have any doubts regarding the treatment or billing items, it is recommended to first discuss them clearly with your original clinic and physician.[Read More] Is It a Billing Error? Understanding Simple Oral Incision and Drainage in Dentistry
Do You Need a Crown After Root Canal Treatment? Understanding Risks and Recommendations
Root canal treatment Hello, Doctor. About a year ago, I had a dental examination and discovered that one of my lower front teeth had developed a pus pocket due to nerve damage from an impact during my high school years. However, the tooth itself is intact. Based on the recommenda...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If a dentist assesses that the structure of the tooth is still strong and intact, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment does not necessarily require a crown. It is advisable to continue monitoring the situation! If a crown is needed later, it can be done at that ...[Read More] Do You Need a Crown After Root Canal Treatment? Understanding Risks and Recommendations
Comprehensive Care Plans for Periodontal Disease: Your Questions Answered
Integrated Care Plan for Periodontal Disease Hello, I would like to ask the following questions to the doctor, thank you. 1. If I undergo periodontal disease treatment covered by health insurance at a clinic, after the first phase of scaling and root planing, if it is assessed ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. In the second stage, more or less, self-paid medical materials will be used. It is recommended to inquire about the approximate charges in advance, whether at a hospital or clinic, to avoid disputes over costs arising after treatment. 2. It is not advisable to exert exc...[Read More] Comprehensive Care Plans for Periodontal Disease: Your Questions Answered
Dealing with Food Trapping After Silver Fillings: Solutions and Advice
Silver amalgam dental filling Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask for your advice. I had a cavity in the molar next to my lower wisdom tooth, which was filled with silver amalgam. Initially, there were no issues with food getting stuck, but after a year, I’ve recently noticed that...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery department (for wisdom teeth) or the Restorative Dentistry department (for fillings) at a medical center for a second and third opinion. If the opinions of each physician are generally similar, it is advisable...[Read More] Dealing with Food Trapping After Silver Fillings: Solutions and Advice
Persistent Pain After Root Canal: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
One month after root canal treatment, I am still unable to bite down on anything? Hello Doctor: I underwent root canal treatment on my lower left molar at the beginning of November. It has been almost a month since the procedure, but I still experience pain when applying pressure...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Treatment not being successful is a possible outcome, and observation for about six months may be warranted. If discomfort persists beyond six months, you might consider undergoing another root canal treatment or checking for other issues such as periodontal inflammation, ...[Read More] Persistent Pain After Root Canal: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Dealing with a Cracked Second Molar: Should You Extract the Remaining Half?
Biting down on food has fractured the second molar? On December 5th, I cracked my lower left second molar while eating. The dentist later extracted half of the tooth and mentioned that if it's inconvenient to chew, the remaining half could be removed as well. Currently, ther...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to completely extract the tooth. Leaving half of the tooth can increase the risk of food debris accumulation and infection. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Dealing with a Cracked Second Molar: Should You Extract the Remaining Half?
Understanding Periodontal Disease Treatment: Standards and Procedures
Periodontal disease treatment What is the standard medical procedure for periodontal disease? Are there different treatment approaches for gingivitis and periodontitis based on their severity? Is routine dental cleaning covered by general health insurance effective?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
First, use ultrasound to remove calculus and plaque from the gums, and ensure proper oral hygiene practices such as correct brushing and flossing. Then, mechanically remove the calculus and plaque from the roots below the gum line, and smooth the root surfaces. Observe the treatm...[Read More] Understanding Periodontal Disease Treatment: Standards and Procedures
Chronic Tooth Pain: Is It Gum Issues or Dental Problems?
I have been experiencing tooth pain for a long time? I have been experiencing tooth pain for a long time, specifically between my first and second molars. I have consulted several dentists who said there is no issue with my teeth. Sometimes, after brushing my teeth, the pain seem...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is possible that the gap between the two molars is prone to accumulating bacteria and food debris, leading to recurrent inflammation and pain in the gums. If using dental floss and interdental brushes does not effectively clean the space, it is recommended to return for a foll...[Read More] Chronic Tooth Pain: Is It Gum Issues or Dental Problems?
Understanding Rough Tooth Surfaces: Causes and Solutions
Rough surface of the teeth? After brushing my teeth, they still feel rough to the tongue, similar to the sensation when I haven't brushed. When I gently scrape them with my fingernail, they feel uneven. Even under light, they don't reflect smoothly like other teeth. The...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is possible that dental calculus is trapped in the rough areas near the tooth roots. It is recommended to consult a dentist for a thorough examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Rough Tooth Surfaces: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Difference Between Tooth Grinding and Polishing in Dentistry
Follow-up inquiry #189469 consultation? Dear Dr. Tseng, Thank you very much for your response and advice in the consultation regarding question #189469. I would like to ask you further questions: Previously, I had my teeth reshaped by a dentist, and from my observation, the den...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1.2. Grinding involves the use of high-speed dental burs to remove a portion of the tooth structure (enamel or dentin), while polishing refers to the use of low-speed instruments to smooth out rough surfaces or stains on the tooth. 3. The incisal edges of anterior teeth are inher...[Read More] Understanding the Difference Between Tooth Grinding and Polishing in Dentistry
Removing Residual Adhesive from Dental Restorations: What You Need to Know
3D dental resin Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about dental bonding residue. I currently have two teeth that have undergone dental bonding, and there is still some adhesive residue that has not been completely removed. I have returned for follow-up visits several times, an...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. Residual adhesive should be completely removed; ultrasound can be used, or a small needle can be carefully employed to remove excess adhesive. 2. If the residual adhesive is close to the gums, it can easily accumulate plaque, leading to gingival inflammation. 3. Routine polish...[Read More] Removing Residual Adhesive from Dental Restorations: What You Need to Know
Navigating Conflicting Dental Treatment Recommendations: What to Do?
What should I do when there are different treatment recommendations? Hello. In mid-November, I felt discomfort around the root of my first premolar and went to Clinic A for an examination. The dentist performed a teeth cleaning (during the process, the dentist mentioned that my b...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: According to what you mentioned, Clinic A did not provide you with a follow-up treatment plan. Clinic B suggested that you undergo further periodontal treatment. The attending physician at Hospital C stated that you can choose to proceed or not. In other words, it is optio...[Read More] Navigating Conflicting Dental Treatment Recommendations: What to Do?
Persistent Head and Cheek Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Know
After having my wisdom teeth removed, I have persistent headaches and cheekbone pain? Hello Doctor, I had my upper right wisdom tooth (non-horizontal) extracted on Monday (11/28). I took the anti-inflammatory pain medication and antibiotics prescribed by the doctor for two days p...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the pain persists for more than one month, it is advisable to consult a neurologist for a systematic evaluation (as the localized symptoms you described, such as nasal congestion, sinusitis, and the extraction site, have not shown significant worsening).[Read More] Persistent Head and Cheek Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Know
Why Is My Root Canal Treatment Causing More Pain? Common Concerns Explained
Root canal treatment Why did my doctor perform root canal treatment only once, and now my nerve hurts even more? My friends and my previous experiences suggest that it usually takes about five or six sessions to achieve complete success. Is it possible that the doctor is mishandl...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
During root canal treatment, all infected tissue and bacteria within the root canal are thoroughly cleaned, and disinfecting medication is placed. After that, special materials are used to fill the canal. If the treatment has only been performed once, it is advisable to consult y...[Read More] Why Is My Root Canal Treatment Causing More Pain? Common Concerns Explained
Understanding White Coating on the Left Side of the Tongue
White patches on the left side of the tongue? It seems that since middle school, there has been a white coating on the left side of my tongue. I haven't paid much attention to it until recently when I noticed it again. I can brush it off with a toothbrush (it requires a bit ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is likely to be tongue coating, which is primarily formed by a film of epithelial cells from the tongue, food debris, and oral bacteria adhering to the rough surface of the tongue, gradually accumulating over time. It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene, drink plenty ...[Read More] Understanding White Coating on the Left Side of the Tongue
Understanding Rough Edges on Your Front Teeth: Expert Answers to Common Concerns
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Tseng, I have some questions regarding my upper right central incisor and upper right lateral incisor. Although the incisal edges appear smooth and without any visible chips, they feel rough to the touch. Here are my questions: Q1. Does the rough a...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. It is normal for the incisal edges of the upper incisors to be uneven; however, prolonged occlusal wear may cause them to become flat. 2. If the incisal edges of the upper incisors become thin due to long-term occlusal wear, they are more susceptible to fracture when biting ha...[Read More] Understanding Rough Edges on Your Front Teeth: Expert Answers to Common Concerns
Understanding Post-Root Canal Sensations: Is It Normal?
Root canal treated tooth It has been over a week since the root canal filling, and the area below the root canal tooth should be the alveolar bone or just beneath it. If I apply pressure while using skincare products on my chin, I notice that the tooth that underwent root canal t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Since the treatment was completed only about a week ago, it is not possible to determine success or failure based on subjective feelings. It is recommended to have follow-up visits once a month and to take X-rays. A definitive conclusion regarding the need for re-treatment...[Read More] Understanding Post-Root Canal Sensations: Is It Normal?
Understanding Hard Bumps on the Upper Jaw: When to Seek Dental Care
Maxillary granules Hello doctor, last week I noticed a small lump near the center of my upper jaw. It has the same color as the surrounding area, but it feels raised and hard. It doesn't hurt or itch, but I can feel it when my tongue touches it. After a week, it hasn't ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It may be a torus palatinus, which is a normal bony growth. However, it is still recommended to seek medical attention for a physician to confirm for peace of mind![Read More] Understanding Hard Bumps on the Upper Jaw: When to Seek Dental Care