Should You Bridge Implants with Natural Teeth? Expert Insights
Can dental implants be used to create a bridge with natural teeth? To summarize the dental situation: The patient has a missing tooth numbered 34 and was previously advised by another dentist to place an implant for tooth 34 and create a three-unit bridge with teeth 33 and 35. Du...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If both are implants, it is indeed possible to consider creating a dental bridge to increase load-bearing capacity and stability. However, in your case, it is important to consider whether the lateral occlusion is canine guidance or group function. If it is canine guidance...[Read More] Should You Bridge Implants with Natural Teeth? Expert Insights
Persistent Gum Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Solutions for Relief
Gum pain persists? Hello, Doctor: I am 37 years old. I had my wisdom teeth removed in my twenties. For the past three years, I have been experiencing recurrent inflammation in the gum of my upper left molar and the adjacent tooth. Previously, maintaining good oral hygiene would h...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If the gums are persistently inflamed and the teeth are loose, it indicates that the alveolar bone has already undergone resorption. If symptoms do not improve after water laser treatment, it is recommended to consult a periodontist to evaluate the need for periodontal flap surge...[Read More] Persistent Gum Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Solutions for Relief
Consequences of Missing Tooth Replacement: Understanding Tooth Migration
Missing teeth that are not replaced can lead to adjacent teeth shifting downward? Hello, doctor. Several years ago, I had my lower molars extracted and haven't had them replaced since. Recently, I visited a dentist who informed me that the corresponding upper molars have bee...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If appropriate treatment is not provided, it is indeed possible for the maxillary teeth to continue to grow downward. It is advisable to promptly perform root canal treatment on the maxillary teeth, followed by shortening them and protecting them with a crown. This will cr...[Read More] Consequences of Missing Tooth Replacement: Understanding Tooth Migration
Managing Oral Ulcers and Bad Breath: When to Seek Dental Care
Ulcer, halitosis? On April 28, I had a mouth ulcer and visited an ENT specialist three times, with the last appointment on May 8. After finishing the medication, I felt that the ulcer was healing, so I stopped going for follow-ups. Now, the largest ulcer is no longer painful, but...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. If the sore in the mouth is no longer very painful and has a yellowish coating, it indicates that the wound is gradually healing. As long as oral hygiene is maintained, it should heal slowly. 2. If there is a persistent problem with bad breath, it may indicate gingival inflamm...[Read More] Managing Oral Ulcers and Bad Breath: When to Seek Dental Care
Post-Tooth Extraction: Understanding Cognitive and Emotional Changes
Abnormal brain activity after tooth extraction? 1. Can tooth extraction lead to the aforementioned brain issues? 2. Could the extraction of two teeth at once have caused damage to the brain? 3. If tooth extraction does not cause any brain damage, what could explain my current...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you mentioned are systemic conditions (such as confusion, dementia, cognitive decline, etc.), and since the CT scan has already been performed and is normal, attributing systemic discomfort to a localized outpatient procedure seems a bit far-fetched. After all...[Read More] Post-Tooth Extraction: Understanding Cognitive and Emotional Changes
Late Wisdom Tooth Extraction Leads to Molars Erosion: What to Do?
Late extraction of wisdom teeth can lead to erosion of the molars? During a previous dental cleaning, the dentist discovered through X-rays that my wisdom tooth had decayed too late and caused erosion to the adjacent molar. However, the cavity is located within the gum tissue, an...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The first step is to recommend the extraction of the impacted wisdom teeth, after which we can fully address the damage to the anterior molars. Whether a crown is needed for protection will depend on the clinical situation. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry...[Read More] Late Wisdom Tooth Extraction Leads to Molars Erosion: What to Do?
Understanding Gum Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Solutions
Gum swelling and pain? Hello Doctor: I had my horizontal wisdom teeth removed on both sides about three to four years ago, but recently the gum around my lower right wisdom tooth swells and hurts every few months, and I experience bleeding while brushing, although it resolves aft...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, if there is simple gum redness and bleeding, it indicates localized periodontal inflammation. The first step is to ensure thorough cleaning, followed by taking X-rays to identify the cause of the inflammation. If the cause can be addressed, it will help prevent recurrent r...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Solutions
Persistent Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do Next?
Persistent discomfort one year after wisdom tooth extraction? Hello, Doctor. I had my lower left and right wisdom teeth extracted in April 2021 at different clinics, and both procedures involved incisions. I returned to a nearby dental clinic for follow-up, and both sites were co...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon. Additionally, it is important to fully inform the treating physician about any systemic diseases and any long-term medications being taken. If the X-ray appears normal and there are no abnormalities, it may be necessary to inve...[Read More] Persistent Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do Next?
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Fillings: Causes and Solutions
Tooth sensitivity or toothache? I recently visited the dentist for a check-up, and the doctor took a full-mouth X-ray, which showed no cavities. Later, I mentioned that there were black lines on the surface of my teeth and some demineralization with slight discoloration on the si...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Preventive filling of the occlusal surface with resin is generally done using a low-hardness flowable resin, which will gradually wear down over time due to occlusion. If there is discomfort in the gums, it is advisable to return for a check-up to see if the filled resin is too h...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Fillings: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Upper Jaw Abscesses: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Maxillary abscess Hello, doctor. I’m not sure if you misunderstood my previous question, so I would like to ask again. Thank you. I have two abscesses: one is located on the gum next to my molar, and the other is on the upper gum next to my incisor. After the root canal treatment...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If during root canal treatment, after the injection of medication intended to promote bone regeneration, pain is felt and a previously resolved abscess reappears, it is possible that the medication was injected into the area surrounding the apex of the tooth root where the absces...[Read More] Understanding Upper Jaw Abscesses: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Is It Safe to Refill Old Cavities That Look Dark but Don't Hurt?
The filling in a tooth that was treated a long time ago appears dark, but there is no pain or discomfort? Hello, doctor! After my dental check-up, I noticed that the area where I had a filling on the gap of my right front tooth has turned dark over the years, but I don't fee...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there are concerns about direct extraction, it is recommended to continue taking X-rays every six months. If there is an observed enlargement of the carious area, it is advisable to proceed with direct removal. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung...[Read More] Is It Safe to Refill Old Cavities That Look Dark but Don't Hurt?
Understanding Dental Medications: What Did My Dentist Use for Pain Relief?
I would like to inquire about the medications that dentists commonly use? Hello: I went to the dental clinic due to a toothache. I initially thought it was a cavity, but after taking an X-ray, the dentist said there was no cavity, but I had periodontal disease. After performing a...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Typically, anti-inflammatory and sedative medications are used, including stronger alkaline compounds that inhibit inflammation-induced low pH levels. The taste of Pepto-Bismol may be attributed to organic compounds such as eugenol. Medications placed in the interproximal ...[Read More] Understanding Dental Medications: What Did My Dentist Use for Pain Relief?
Severe Tooth Pain Without Cavities: What Could Be Wrong?
Toothache without cavities? Hello Doctor, my front tooth is extremely painful. I went to see a dentist, who said there are no cavities. An X-ray also showed no issues, and the tooth looks normal without any redness or swelling. I had a dental cleaning, but I'm still in pain ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the periapical X-ray of the tooth does not reveal the cause, it is recommended to conduct additional examinations, including panoramic radiographs, computed tomography (CT) scans, as well as pulp vitality tests, occlusal assessments, periodontal pocket depth measurement...[Read More] Severe Tooth Pain Without Cavities: What Could Be Wrong?
Understanding Post-Filling Tooth Pain: What to Expect
Pain after dental filling? Hello doctor, I would like to ask why my upper teeth were originally painful, but after getting them filled, my lower teeth also hurt when I close my mouth. Will this discomfort subside after a while?
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to observe for 1 to 2 weeks. If there is no improvement, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment to adjust the occlusion. Thank you! Sincerely, Lin Chia-yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Post-Filling Tooth Pain: What to Expect
Understanding Post-Filling Tooth Pain: What to Expect After Dental Work
Pain after dental filling? Hello doctor, I would like to ask why my upper teeth were originally painful, but after getting them filled, my lower teeth also hurt when my mouth is closed. Will this discomfort subside after a while?
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to observe for 1 to 2 weeks. If there is still no improvement, it would be best to return for a follow-up appointment to adjust the occlusion. Thank you! Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Post-Filling Tooth Pain: What to Expect After Dental Work
Understanding Dental Crown Lengthening: Is It Covered by Insurance?
Crown lengthening surgery Is there insurance coverage for crown lengthening surgery? After having my lower left wisdom tooth extracted, I have a cavity next to the second molar that extends below the gum line. The dentist said that I need to undergo crown lengthening surgery in o...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you seek a physician you trust, rather than making decisions based solely on price, as you may need assistance in case of postoperative issues. It is safest to have the procedure done at a medical center. (Crown lengthening procedures are typically o...[Read More] Understanding Dental Crown Lengthening: Is It Covered by Insurance?
Managing Gum Swelling and Pain: Tips for Dental Health Issues
Gum swelling and pain (with a lump on the cheek)? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the trouble, but I have a tooth (upper right premolar) that underwent root canal treatment over 10 years ago. A few months ago, I developed a fistula, and after taking antibiotics, it resolved. Howev...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you can obtain medication from a pharmacy, it is recommended to take Augmentin (1g twice daily) and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) three times a day. Additionally, you may consider taking vitamin B complex. If there is no improvement after a five-day cou...[Read More] Managing Gum Swelling and Pain: Tips for Dental Health Issues
Understanding Post-Root Canal Pain: When to Consider Further Treatment
Root canal treatment for tooth pain? Hello Doctor, I underwent root canal treatment at a dental clinic. This tooth had been painful for about six months to a year without treatment. When I finally had the opportunity to see a dentist, I was informed that I needed a root canal, an...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you are really concerned about experiencing pain after getting braces, you can postpone the treatment for now, or you may try a temporary retainer to see how it feels. Be sure to chew carefully and avoid gulping down food. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentist...[Read More] Understanding Post-Root Canal Pain: When to Consider Further Treatment
Understanding Pain and Swelling After Root Canal Treatment
Post-operative swelling and pain after root canal treatment? During my first root canal treatment, after returning home, the filling fell out and the tooth started to hurt. The doctor mentioned that food debris had gotten in, so I had to go back to the hospital for a rinse. The n...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to discuss with the physician who conducted the actual examination. If the root canal has been thoroughly cleaned and there is still swelling and pain, it may be advisable to perform a CT scan of the head and neck to check for other sources of infection. ...[Read More] Understanding Pain and Swelling After Root Canal Treatment
How to Handle Tooth Pain After Biting Down on Medication
Bite injury to the teeth? Hello doctor, I would like to ask you a question. I just took my stomach medication and thought it was meant to be chewed, but it wasn't. I bit down and made a loud noise. The last tooth on the lower side where I bit down had a root canal done previ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there is no obvious damage to the appearance of the tooth (you can use your tongue to feel for any roughness or irregularities), it is recommended to observe it first. You can apply a local ice pack (including ice cubes) to soothe the irritated dental pulp and periodont...[Read More] How to Handle Tooth Pain After Biting Down on Medication