Understanding Jaw Sounds and TMJ: Do They Cause Facial Changes?
There is a sound in my right ear when I open my mouth wide? I have a sound coming from my right ear when I open my mouth, and sometimes I hear a slight clicking noise from the joint in front. When I feel tired, I notice a tight sensation in the area where the joint in front of my...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Vivian, Thank you for your letter. Regarding the symptoms you described, including the clicking sounds in your joints and muscle tightness, these are indeed symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. However, we cannot rule out the possibility of other neurological...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Sounds and TMJ: Do They Cause Facial Changes?
Understanding Clicking Sounds in the Left TMJ: Causes and Solutions
Occasionally, there is a clicking sound in the left temporomandibular joint? Hello, doctor. I have been wearing an occlusal splint for over 10 years, but occasionally I hear a clicking sound from the left temporomandibular joint. I would like to ask if the clicking sound in the j...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Vivian, Thank you for your letter. The clicking sound in your joints is one of the symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which may sometimes be accompanied by muscle or joint soreness. However, we cannot rule out other neurological issues or dental problems th...[Read More] Understanding Clicking Sounds in the Left TMJ: Causes and Solutions
Should Dentures Be Reinserted for Patients with Dementia and Weak Consciousness?
Should removable dentures be reinserted for patients with diminished consciousness due to dementia? Hello, my mother is 83 years old and suffers from dementia, diabetes, and bile duct cancer. After hospitalization and chemotherapy, her consciousness was extremely weak. The family...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Wan, Hello. Generally, removable dentures are not easily swallowed; however, the design of removable dentures can vary among different healthcare facilities, and there may be size discrepancies. If the dentures are too small, the possibility of accidental swallowing can...[Read More] Should Dentures Be Reinserted for Patients with Dementia and Weak Consciousness?
Discomfort in Left Cheek While Eating: Possible Dental Issues Explained
Discomfort in the left cheek while eating? About a month ago, while eating, I suddenly experienced a tingling sensation on the left side of my cheek when biting down. After resting for 2 to 3 minutes, it returned to normal, and I didn't think much of it. However, it happened...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Ou, Hello. Based on the symptoms you described, the issues may be categorized into four types: 1. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, 2. Dental problems, 3. Periodontal issues, and 4. Extraoral problems. Since there are many potential sources for these problems, each ...[Read More] Discomfort in Left Cheek While Eating: Possible Dental Issues Explained
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues and Treatment Options
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello, doctor. It seems that I started having temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues after eating something too hard when I was younger. I hear clicking sounds whether my mouth is open or closed, and it feels like the bones are being worn down. There w...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Yan Yan, Hello, based on the situation described, the popping sound is related to a joint issue and is not necessarily bilateral. Wearing an occlusal splint can only alleviate muscle pressure but cannot eliminate the problem. I recommend that you visit a clinic or hospital ...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues and Treatment Options
Optimal Age for Orthodontic Treatment in Children with Bite Issues
Orthodontic age Hello, doctor. My child has had an underbite since a young age, with the lower teeth positioned in front and a noticeable thickness when biting down. The lower jaw is more prominent. He is currently 7 years old and is in the process of losing his baby teeth. I wou...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Tess, Hello, please inquire at clinics or hospitals that specialize in orthodontics. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Chih-Cheng Attending Physician, Dentistry Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare[Read More] Optimal Age for Orthodontic Treatment in Children with Bite Issues
Understanding Left TMJ Pain: Treatment Options and Management Strategies
Left temporomandibular joint pain? Hello Doctor: In mid-July of this year, I gradually began to experience tooth pain, which increased in frequency. In August, I visited a major hospital to see both a dentist and a neurologist, and later I was referred to an oral specialist. My j...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Chen, Hello, I recommend visiting a clinic to confirm whether the location of your tooth pain has cavities. If there are no cavities, it may be a joint issue. Surgery is the last resort; a bite splint can relieve tension but cannot eliminate the problem. Wishing you pea...[Read More] Understanding Left TMJ Pain: Treatment Options and Management Strategies
Understanding Cysts in the Gums: What You Need to Know
The tongue is pressing down against the lower gum, where there is a cyst on the lower gum? Hello Doctor, I have had two missing lower premolars for several years without getting dentures. Recently, I felt two cysts under my canines, near the lower edge of the gums, using my tongu...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Chen, Hello. As a definitive diagnosis cannot be made, it is recommended that you visit a clinic or hospital for evaluation. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Chih-Cheng Attending Physician, Department of Dentistry Taoyuan General Hospita...[Read More] Understanding Cysts in the Gums: What You Need to Know
Can I Keep My Tooth Post Without a Crown? Dental Concerns Explained
Can I just get a dental post without a crown? Hello, Doctor. About 10 years ago, I had a root canal on my front tooth and was supposed to get a crown, but due to financial difficulties, I only had a post placed and never got the crown. Since the post made my front tooth quite thi...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Nancy, Based on the above situation, it is recommended that you visit a clinic for evaluation. Please avoid biting down on hard objects for the time being. Wishing you safety and health, Dr. Huang Chih-Cheng, Attending Dentist, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and ...[Read More] Can I Keep My Tooth Post Without a Crown? Dental Concerns Explained
Persistent Tooth Pain After Root Canal and Crown Placement: Seeking Solutions
After root canal treatment and placement of a dental crown, the bite still hurts? The first dentist treated my tooth without performing a root canal but placed a crown, and I experienced no discomfort or pain. However, during a check-up with the second dentist, the crown accident...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Miss Lin, Hello. Since I have not seen your X-ray in person, I cannot make a definitive diagnosis. If there is a fracture in the tooth root, the chances of preserving it are very low, and there is a higher likelihood of future infection and inflammation. I recommend that yo...[Read More] Persistent Tooth Pain After Root Canal and Crown Placement: Seeking Solutions
Understanding Post-Filling Concerns: Tooth Decay and Pain After Dental Work
After dental filling for cavities? Hello, doctor. Today I went to the dentist, and he told me that I have three cavities: the last two teeth on the upper left and right, and the last tooth on the lower left. Since the upper ones are not visible, he couldn't confirm them, but...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Lin, 1. The black spot may simply be a deposition of pigment and is likely not in the same area as the cavity. Since we cannot see the detailed situation, I recommend that you return to the original clinic for a definitive diagnosis. 2. After the dental filling, you ma...[Read More] Understanding Post-Filling Concerns: Tooth Decay and Pain After Dental Work
Understanding Occlusal Splints and TMJ Treatment: Your Questions Answered
Occlusal splint bite points and joint clinic irrigation? Dear Dr. Huang, 1. I have been suffering from temporomandibular joint pain for nearly ten years, making it difficult for me to chew food. I have been using an occlusal splint, but my mouth can only open two fingers wide, a...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Salina, 1. The principles and functions of occlusal splints are varied, but generally, the goal is to achieve an even occlusion, which should be discussed with your dentist. 2. After wearing an occlusal splint for one night, the muscles may adjust, resulting in variations i...[Read More] Understanding Occlusal Splints and TMJ Treatment: Your Questions Answered
Can You Get Dental Crowns Without Root Canal Treatment?
Can braces be applied without needing a root canal? Hello, I have cavities on the sides of my teeth that have been filled but still keep falling out, and they often get food trapped in them, causing pain. The doctor suggested that I don't need a root canal and that I should ...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. DD, Hello, there are various approaches, and there is no right or wrong answer. If a root canal treatment is performed, it is less likely that there will be a need for re-treatment in the future (assuming the patient maintains good oral hygiene). If root canal treatment...[Read More] Can You Get Dental Crowns Without Root Canal Treatment?
Should You Get Crowns for Your Wisdom Tooth and Second Molar?
Wisdom tooth root canal treatment Hello, Dr. Huang. Over two years ago, I lost my first molar, and my second molar has undergone root canal treatment. Currently, my wisdom tooth is also undergoing root canal treatment. The doctor has suggested that I should get crowns for both my...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, it is recommended to place a crown on teeth after root canal treatment to prevent the risk of fracture or breakage during eating in the future. Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy no longer receive nutrient supply, making them more prone to brittleness. Therefore,...[Read More] Should You Get Crowns for Your Wisdom Tooth and Second Molar?
Improving Jaw Alignment: Solutions for TMJ Issues in Adolescents
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Dr. Huang: Hello! My daughter is currently 12 years old. When she was about 7, she fractured the growth plate on the right side of her mandible. Now, due to an abnormal bite, she is injuring the inner cheek muscles, and there is a protrusion on the c...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, if you accidentally bite the side of your tongue, it is recommended to consult a dentist to smooth out any sharp edges of your teeth to prevent further injuries. You may return to the clinic to discuss with your doctor the possibility of creating an occlusal splint. Wishin...[Read More] Improving Jaw Alignment: Solutions for TMJ Issues in Adolescents
Understanding Tooth Pain: Why Both Upper and Lower Teeth Hurt
Toothache affecting both upper and lower teeth simultaneously? The doctor would like to ask you: 1. In the past three weeks, I suddenly experienced continuous pain in my upper left wisdom tooth for four days, followed by a day without pain. This pattern of one day of pain follo...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Chiu, 1. If there were no significant abnormalities during your last diagnosis at the clinic, I recommend that you visit a hospital to see a neurologist for further evaluation. 2. If you are unable to close your mouth after keeping it open for an extended period, this m...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: Why Both Upper and Lower Teeth Hurt
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorder After Orthodontic Treatment
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ Disorder) Hello, doctor. I originally had a malocclusion, so I went for orthodontic treatment. Now, after about a year of treatment, my teeth have been making increasingly loud clicking sounds, and sometimes they even get stuck. I went for a ...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Lai, Regarding the aforementioned issue, more severe joint problems cannot be resolved solely through orthodontics; however, orthodontic treatment can alleviate the initial severity. A bite splint can help achieve a more ideal occlusion and reduce the strain on the musc...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorder After Orthodontic Treatment
Will Orthodontic Treatment for Deep Bite Make My Chin More Protruded?
After orthodontic treatment for deep bite, I hope my chin does not become more pronounced? I am currently undergoing orthodontic treatment for deep bite. My doctor’s treatment plan involves placing four bone screws near the upper and lower wisdom teeth to pull the upper teeth bac...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, the patient's deep bite condition is caused by the protrusion of the maxilla and the retrusion of the mandible. Therefore, what we observe externally (the protrusion of the chin you mentioned) is due to the cartilage tissue, while the bone itself does not protrude. So...[Read More] Will Orthodontic Treatment for Deep Bite Make My Chin More Protruded?
Unusual Growth in Tooth Gap: Causes and Solutions
Foreign objects growing in the gaps between teeth? A few years ago, I lost a tooth, and since then, only a small portion has grown back. Over the past year, a soft, fleshy growth resembling a granulation tissue has developed in the area where the tooth was lost. It doesn't h...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello: We cannot make a diagnosis based solely on your written description. We recommend that you visit an oral healthcare facility for evaluation and treatment. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of H...[Read More] Unusual Growth in Tooth Gap: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Jaw Joint Disorders After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Hello Doctor: About four months ago, I had my upper left and lower left wisdom teeth extracted. Approximately one month after the extraction, I began experiencing pain in my temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Prior to the extraction, I ...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, it is recommended that you maintain proper oral hygiene on the right side of your mouth and ensure you get enough rest. Please also make sure to wear your occlusal splint properly. Given the current situation, a more detailed diagnosis cannot be provided. Please visit a de...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Joint Disorders After Wisdom Tooth Extraction