Do I Need Root Canal Treatment for Tooth Pain and Abscess?
Chewing pain with an abscess, is root canal treatment necessary? Hello Doctor: I have a cavity in my right first molar, which I had root canal treatment done by Dentist A over a decade ago. I haven't had any issues since then. Recently, I received orthodontic treatment from ...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss ETing: Based on what you described, I would like to point out some considerations since I haven't seen the X-ray. In addition to inflammation of the root canal system and periodontal issues, excessive occlusal pressure can sometimes lead to root fractures. Of cour...[Read More] Do I Need Root Canal Treatment for Tooth Pain and Abscess?
Alternatives to Dental Implants for Severe Tooth Decay Treatment
Cavities and dentures? Hello Doctor: I went to a clinic for an X-ray due to tooth pain and discovered that one of my molars (the fifth one counting from the middle) has a more serious issue. The doctor mentioned that there is a crack and that it has decayed down to the nerve. The...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss CHA: If the tooth has decayed to the pulp chamber, then "root canal treatment" is essential; otherwise, it could lead to a more severe infection. Placing a "crown" can help protect the remaining structure. Since I have not seen your X-ray, I cannot ...[Read More] Alternatives to Dental Implants for Severe Tooth Decay Treatment
White Bump Inside Lower Lip: Causes and Treatment Options
I have a white spot on the inside of my lower lip? I have a white bump on the inside of my lower lip, surrounded by a red ring. It has been soft and fluctuating in size for over a month, and it seems to get larger sometimes after eating. What could this be? Does it need to be sur...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Lesions that appear on the lips require a detailed differential diagnosis or a biopsy to confirm their etiology. Sometimes, prolonged inappropriate pressure, such as from sucking, can also lead to protrusions. Therefore, based solely on your description, a correct diagnosis canno...[Read More] White Bump Inside Lower Lip: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Tooth Pain and Facial Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Toothache and facial swelling have occurred? I have a tooth that is severely decayed, with only one wall remaining. I haven't seen a dentist because I'm very scared and feel embarrassed. A couple of days ago, I started experiencing pain when eating, and yesterday when I...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
I believe your teeth are in a state of severe decay and may lead to cellulitis. I recommend that you muster the courage to seek medical attention as soon as possible. As the saying goes, "It's better to endure a short pain than a long one; dental pain must be addressed ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain and Facial Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Dental Fillings: Risks, Materials, and Best Practices
Dental filling (1) Is it really dangerous to use silver powder for dental fillings? (2) The resin filling I had before fell out, and some of the resin remains, but there is secondary decay inside. Is this due to the material or the technique? Would going to a larger hospital prov...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Chen, (1) The materials used for dental treatments must be non-toxic and harmless as a primary requirement. The use of "silver powder" for dental fillings has been established in dental practice for many years, and its safety and stability are well recognize...[Read More] Understanding Dental Fillings: Risks, Materials, and Best Practices
Oral Care Tips for Stroke Patients: Easy Solutions for Bedridden Individuals
Oral care for stroke patients? Due to my father's recent severe stroke, he is somewhat in a vegetative state and requires long-term bed rest. Previously, he was sent to a nursing home for care, where he did not receive daily oral hygiene, resulting in decayed teeth and an un...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Panda: It's commendable that you are considering helping your father with oral hygiene; it shows you are a dutiful child. Often, in the care of bedridden patients, oral hygiene is overlooked amidst the many tasks. However, as the saying goes, "disease enters t...[Read More] Oral Care Tips for Stroke Patients: Easy Solutions for Bedridden Individuals
Is It Safe to Extract Wisdom Teeth During Pregnancy?
Is it safe to have wisdom teeth removed during pregnancy? Hello, Doctor. I am currently about 27 weeks pregnant and have a horizontally impacted wisdom tooth that has decayed. It has been very painful these past few days. I have had it filled, but I still experience sharp pain. M...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Dear Maggie, Congratulations on your upcoming journey into motherhood! During this pregnancy, it is inevitable to encounter some discomforts and health issues that need to be properly addressed. Pregnancy can be divided into three trimesters: the first, second, and third. Typica...[Read More] Is It Safe to Extract Wisdom Teeth During Pregnancy?
Why Is My Tongue Numb? Understanding Dental Causes and Solutions
I'm not sure why my tongue feels numb? I don't know why, but my tongue has been feeling numb these past few days. >”< I haven't eaten anything spicy, and the numbness in my tongue is making me very uncomfortable and unable to concentrate.
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Mignon: The tongue is controlled by numerous nerve systems. If the tingling sensation in the tongue persists for too long, it may require some special examinations, especially to determine how long the numbness lasts, the frequency, and whether it is accompanied by oth...[Read More] Why Is My Tongue Numb? Understanding Dental Causes and Solutions
Understanding Dental Treatments: Costs and Options for Cavities and Implants
I have over ten cavities in my teeth combined, both upper and lower? I have more than ten cavities in my teeth, and every time I brush, it hurts a lot and bleeds, so I'm afraid to brush my teeth. I visited a dentist recently, and he said I need to get four fillings in the fr...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Dear Miss Zhang, Please do not panic. It is essential to seek dental care promptly for tooth pain to minimize treatment duration and enhance effectiveness. You must face the reality bravely, as the dentist will treat you gently. As you mentioned, if the cavity is too large to be...[Read More] Understanding Dental Treatments: Costs and Options for Cavities and Implants
Dealing with Decayed Wisdom Teeth: Should You Ignore Them?
The issue of cavities in wisdom teeth? Hello, I have two wisdom teeth that are decayed to the point where only the crowns remain, and the teeth are no longer visible. However, they do not hurt. One tooth has a blackened crown, while the other is also decayed but does not have any...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Gimmy: Each tooth in the dental arch has its own function, and especially in ancient times, dental health was a necessary condition for longevity. If there are issues with your teeth, they should be addressed immediately; otherwise, minor problems can escalate into majo...[Read More] Dealing with Decayed Wisdom Teeth: Should You Ignore Them?
Understanding Periodontal Disease and Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
Periodontal disease and root canal treatment? Ten years ago, I had a tooth that underwent root canal treatment. A few days ago, I experienced unbearable pain and consulted a dentist. The dentist diagnosed me with periodontal disease and mentioned that it was caused by inadequate ...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Mr. Periodontal disease and pulp disease can sometimes be interrelated. The diagnosis and treatment sequence should be determined based on the clinical symptoms presented at the time and the dentist's experience. Dentistry can be subdivided into several specialties, and cert...[Read More] Understanding Periodontal Disease and Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
Why Haven't My Child's Baby Teeth Fallen Out Yet?
Why haven't the primary teeth fallen out yet? My daughter is currently 6 years and 5 months old and has only lost two of her lower front teeth. Is it normal that the other teeth have not fallen out yet?
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Andy: The replacement of primary teeth with permanent teeth follows a specific order and timeline. Generally, it is normal for children to start losing their teeth around the ages of 5 to 6. However, due to the current prevalence of overnutrition and excessive consumpti...[Read More] Why Haven't My Child's Baby Teeth Fallen Out Yet?
Comparing Removable and Traditional Dentures: Pros and Cons Explained
Regarding dentures..? Hello Doctor: At the end of last year, I had a tooth extracted due to periodontal disease. Recently, I am considering getting a dental implant, but the first hospital I visited said my condition is good for an implant (since I have diabetes). The second hosp...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello, Miss Tulia: Traditional dentures include both fixed and removable types, each with its own usage methods suitable for different oral conditions. Dental implants are a type of surgical procedure that requires careful evaluation of various factors, including the assessment o...[Read More] Comparing Removable and Traditional Dentures: Pros and Cons Explained
Understanding Tooth Pain After Dental Filling: Causes and Solutions
Tooth sensitivity or pain after a dental filling is common? Hello doctor, I went to see the dentist for a cavity and to get a filling at 11 AM this morning. After the procedure, I didn't experience any pain, and the dentist didn't mention taking painkillers. However, by...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Maxcat: After dental filling, pain may occur due to the following situations: 1. Deep cavity 2. Pulp necrosis 3. Biting down on something too hard 4. It is generally recommended that you return to your original dental clinic and consult your treating dentist for an exa...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain After Dental Filling: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Dental Cysts: Surgical Risks and Long-Term Effects
Cyst If a cyst is indicated for surgical removal, potential complications may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or recurrence of the cyst. Regarding the tooth on the right side of your front teeth, which was previously injured from a fall, it is not uncommon for issues t...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Q: The term "dental abscess" likely refers to a periodontal abscess or a periodontal cyst. The former involves a smaller area, while the latter is larger. An abscess requires incision and drainage, whereas a cyst necessitates surgical removal. Based on your d...[Read More] Understanding Dental Cysts: Surgical Risks and Long-Term Effects
Addressing Your Baby's Crooked Front Teeth: When to Seek Dental Advice
The front tooth has grown misaligned? Hello Dr. Lin: My daughter is currently 10 months old. Last month, she got her first incisor, which appears to be crooked. From my perspective, it is leaning to the left. Yesterday, she developed her second incisor (just the tip is showing), ...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Lin: Before a baby develops teeth, the dentist's focus is on the overall health of the oral environment. Once teeth begin to emerge, it is even more important to have regular dental check-ups. I understand you may be a new mother, so I want to remind you to consid...[Read More] Addressing Your Baby's Crooked Front Teeth: When to Seek Dental Advice
Understanding Upper Jaw Protrusion: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Maxillary alveolar protrusion? Dear Dr. Lin, Hello! Due to living abroad and not receiving proper treatment locally, I have been experiencing periodontal disease. Three months ago, I noticed that one of my front teeth was protruding, but I couldn't determine the cause. Rece...
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Willis, the treatment of periodontal disease sometimes requires the use of medication as an adjunct. However, one cannot rely solely on pharmaceuticals. The protrusion of the maxilla may sometimes need to be diagnosed as either a dental or osseous pathology. Typically, ...[Read More] Understanding Upper Jaw Protrusion: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Understanding Tooth Decay: Treatment Options and Pain Management
Cavity Doctor, I have cavities in my last two molars on the lower right side. What will you do about it? Will it hurt? Thank you, doctor!
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Min Min: Oh dear, you've stumped me! I don't have the ability to see your cavities from afar. I can't determine how deep or extensive they are, but perhaps you could send me some images online or via fax. Regardless, I promise to treat your teeth gently to mi...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: Treatment Options and Pain Management
Do You Need to Clean Connected Dentures? Expert Advice on Oral Care
Please advise on denture cleaning? Dear Doctor, do dentures that are connected (metal teeth) need to be cleaned between them? Thank you! ^_^!
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Xiaotang: The "connected dentures" you mentioned should be referred to as fixed dental crowns and bridges, which are types of fixed prosthetics. Both natural teeth and prosthetics need to be cleaned daily. However, regular toothbrushes may not effectively clea...[Read More] Do You Need to Clean Connected Dentures? Expert Advice on Oral Care
How to Talk to Your Mom About Visiting the Dentist for Cavities
Cavities Doctor, I have two cavities in the lower right molars. I want to see a dentist, but I don't know how to tell my mom!
Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Miss Min Min, (1) I think you can directly tell your mom, "My tooth hurts!" and ask her to take you to see a doctor. You can also point to your tooth or ask your teacher to talk to your mom for you. (2) Smart girl, you know that cavities need a dentist's help, so I...[Read More] How to Talk to Your Mom About Visiting the Dentist for Cavities