Understanding Root Canal Filling Materials: What to Expect After Treatment
Root canal filling materials A few days ago, I had a root canal treatment. After the doctor changed the dressing, they filled the tooth and applied a thick brown substance around the root of the tooth. The smell is quite strong, and it feels uncomfortable when my tongue touches i...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Chen You-Chang: You can return for a consultation with the treating dentist. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Filling Materials: What to Expect After Treatment
Understanding Irregular White Lesions on Oral Mucosa: Causes and Concerns
Oral mucosa Hello, doctor. Today, due to a throat inflammation, I looked in the mirror and noticed an irregularly shaped white patch on the inner mucosa of my right cheek, slightly larger than a grain of rice. It is not painful, itchy, or swollen (completely flat). I sometimes un...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Jiang: It may be inflammation caused by irritation of the mucous membrane. I recommend seeing a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Irregular White Lesions on Oral Mucosa: Causes and Concerns
Common Dental Concerns: Understanding Tooth Cracks and Sensitivity
Inquiry for clarification? Hello Dr. Tseng, I have a few questions I would like to ask you: Q1. I have noticed a small gap on the occlusal surface of my lower left first molar. I'm not sure if it is a fracture or if it has always been like that. There are no symptoms, but...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Kris: 1. Unless the cavity is very deep, maintaining good oral hygiene is usually sufficient. 2. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further diagnosis. 3. If a tooth has cracked but the damage is limited to the enamel, there are generally no symptoms; just monito...[Read More] Common Dental Concerns: Understanding Tooth Cracks and Sensitivity
Traditional vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Method Improves Dental Arches?
During traditional or Invisalign orthodontic treatment, is the alveolar bone also corrected? Dr. Tseng: Hello, I am 24 years old and would like to correct my dental issues. My main concerns are that my upper dental arch is relatively narrow, my upper right central incisor is misa...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Longlong: 1. Traditional orthodontics or Invisalign have limited movement of the alveolar bone. It is recommended to consult an orthodontist to determine if, in addition to traditional orthodontic treatment, orthognathic surgery or the use of a palatal expander is neces...[Read More] Traditional vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Method Improves Dental Arches?
Understanding Oral Soft Tissue: Concerns About Movable Cheek Lumps
Buccal palpation Hello doctor, I felt a movable lump in the cheek area next to my wisdom tooth. However, when I saw the doctor, he assured me that it is a soft tissue in the oral cavity and told me not to worry, saying it is not a growth. But the lump feels somewhat oval-shaped a...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Ms. Lala: It is possible that the inflammation and swelling are due to the gums around your wisdom tooth. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for further examination by a dentist. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Oral Soft Tissue: Concerns About Movable Cheek Lumps
Understanding Tooth Decay: When to Fill Cavities and Manage Pain
Direct restoration of cavities? Because sometimes I feel a slight pain in my teeth when eating, I went to see a doctor. The doctor said there is a small cavity in a deeper area that is not very visible. If that area is drilled out, it would remove too much healthy tooth structure...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Ms. Anonymous: If the cavity is very deep, even if it is filled, the filling may be very close to the dental pulp, and you may still experience sensitivity or pain when exposed to hot or cold foods. It is recommended to return for a check-up, and if necessary, consider root...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: When to Fill Cavities and Manage Pain
Understanding Temporary Crowns and Porcelain Veneers: Common Concerns
Temporary crown, all-ceramic crown Hello Doctor: Recently, I had two upper front teeth and two lateral incisors made as all-ceramic crowns. The front teeth underwent root canal treatment, while the lateral incisors were made for aesthetic reasons. Today, I just had temporary dent...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Dear students with mild anxiety: 1. Due to the thickness of the dental crown, you may initially feel that your lips are pressing against your upper front teeth. 2. The thickness of the crown on the upper front teeth may also give you the sensation that your lower teeth are catch...[Read More] Understanding Temporary Crowns and Porcelain Veneers: Common Concerns
Concerns About Persistent Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The swelling after wisdom tooth extraction has not gone down, and I am a bit worried? Hello, Director. I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted at the clinic on February 22. After the extraction, my cheek was significantly swollen. By March 18, the swelling had decreased, but ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Zhong, 1. If the process of tooth extraction involves grinding down the alveolar bone, there is usually a higher risk of postoperative swelling and pain due to the larger wound area, which increases the likelihood of infection. If an X-ray is taken postoperatively to co...[Read More] Concerns About Persistent Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Understanding Oral Blisters: Causes, Treatment, and Care Tips
There is a blood blister in the mouth? Hello, doctor. I have a question. Whenever I eat salty fried foods like popcorn chicken, I tend to develop blisters in my mouth. I have a few questions: 1. Should I pop the blisters? 2. If I don't pop them, how long will it take for the...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Nanbao, 1. Generally, blisters will rupture on their own. If the blister is too large or affects eating, it is advisable to consult a dentist. 2. If the blister has ruptured, keep the wound clean; it should heal in about a week. 3. Unless there is pain or infection, ...[Read More] Understanding Oral Blisters: Causes, Treatment, and Care Tips
Loose Tooth After Root Canal: Options Beyond Extraction and Implants
Loose teeth I have a tooth in the upper left that has undergone root canal treatment. Last year, it seemed to have a minor fracture and looseness after biting down on something hard. Given this situation, do I need to have it extracted and get an implant? I have financial constra...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Ms. Hsieh: We need to assess the extent of the fracture and whether there is enough remaining tooth structure to place a dental post and cover it with a crown. If the fracture is extensive and a crown cannot be placed, extraction followed by dental implant placement is reco...[Read More] Loose Tooth After Root Canal: Options Beyond Extraction and Implants
Can Bonding a Dental Bridge to Adjacent Teeth Prevent Loosening?
Loose dental bridge? If the foundation is poor and the dental bridge is loose, can it be bonded to the adjacent natural tooth to reduce movement?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Hsu Ren-Hsin: It is not advisable to proceed in that manner. You should start with periodontal treatment to improve the condition of periodontal destruction and the support of the dental bridge. If the periodontal damage is too severe to be improved through periodontal t...[Read More] Can Bonding a Dental Bridge to Adjacent Teeth Prevent Loosening?
Can Improper Teeth Cleaning Cause Loose Dental Crowns?
A fixed dental prosthesis became loose due to dental cleaning? Hello: I have a fixed upper denture with eight teeth connected, which has been in place for about 23 years. Since my original dentist has retired, I changed clinics for a dental cleaning. About a week after the cleani...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Dear Miss Qin Qin: It is recommended to return for an examination to determine the cause of the looseness of the dentures. If the periodontal condition of the supporting teeth is still acceptable, the dental bridge can be removed and re-cemented. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department o...[Read More] Can Improper Teeth Cleaning Cause Loose Dental Crowns?
Understanding Persistent Hard Growth in the Upper Jaw: Dental Insights
There is a hard lump on the upper jaw? Hello, Doctor. Last March, I discovered a hard, flesh-colored lesion in my upper jaw, approximately 0.1-0.2 mm in size. It is painless and does not itch. It has not disappeared and feels solid; when I touch it with a cotton swab, it does not...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Ms. Aa: I apologize for not being able to provide a detailed response. I recommend visiting a medical center for further examination or treatment in the oral surgery or otolaryngology department. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui from Nantou Hospital's dental department.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hard Growth in the Upper Jaw: Dental Insights
Understanding Dental Sharpening and Polishing: Your Questions Answered
Inquiry Consultation Hello Dr. Tseng: My lower right second molar and lower left first premolar seem to have sharper areas due to long-term wear. While they do not scrape my tongue, they have a noticeably sharp sensation. Today, I visited the dental clinic for an evaluation, and ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Kris: 1. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination. 2. It is possible that long-term irritation from scraping has led to hyperplasia of the tongue tissue. 3. If you frequently scrape your tongue, it is advisable to have a dentist smooth out any shar...[Read More] Understanding Dental Sharpening and Polishing: Your Questions Answered
Effective Daily Cleaning Methods for Managing Periodontal Disease
Daily Cleaning Methods for Periodontal Disease Hello, Director Zeng. I have currently completed the first phase of periodontal treatment, which included subgingival scaling, and I have scheduled follow-up appointments. The dentist mentioned that for deeper pockets, I could use in...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Huang: It is recommended to perform routine cleaning of the periodontal pockets using standard brushing techniques and dental floss or interdental brushes. If using a water flosser to clean between teeth, it is advised not to use it forcefully on deep pockets. If oral h...[Read More] Effective Daily Cleaning Methods for Managing Periodontal Disease
Can Old Dental Bridges Be Removed for Repairs?
Can dentures be removed for maintenance after many years of use? At around 60 years old, a fixed bridge prosthesis was placed. Recently, there has been an increase in pain in that area. Is it possible to remove it for inspection and repair?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Wu Chikun: To check the marginal fit of the fixed dental bridge, as poor fit can lead to plaque accumulation or food impaction, which may cause gingival inflammation. If such conditions are present, you may consider having a new dental bridge fabricated. Sincerely, ...[Read More] Can Old Dental Bridges Be Removed for Repairs?
Understanding and Treating Liang's Premolars: A Guide for Parents
Liang's small molar My daughter, a high school sophomore, has been experiencing tooth pain intermittently. Sometimes it hurts, and other times it doesn't, and she is unable to bite down on hard foods. We took her to the dentist for an examination, and they said there ar...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Moz: The Liang's premolars refer to premolars that have developmental abnormalities, resulting in small tooth-like projections on their surfaces. These projections contain dental nerves and are susceptible to inflammation and pain due to thermal stimuli or chewing ...[Read More] Understanding and Treating Liang's Premolars: A Guide for Parents
Best Alcohol-Free Medicinal Mouthwashes for Gum Health
Alcohol-free medicated mouthwash recommendations? Hello Dr. Tseng, I completed the first phase of periodontal treatment (subgingival scaling) at the end of February and am currently under observation. Although I have been consistently using a water flosser and mouthwash (Bai Li...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Huang: 1. If the gingival inflammation is caused by periodontal disease, mouthwash can only serve as an adjunctive measure. The key is to thoroughly clean the dental plaque and calculus, which will naturally improve the gingival inflammation. If you really want to use...[Read More] Best Alcohol-Free Medicinal Mouthwashes for Gum Health
Can Improper Teeth Cleaning Cause Loose Dental Crowns?
A fixed dental prosthesis became loose due to dental cleaning? Hello: I have a fixed dental prosthesis with eight units in the upper arch, which has been in place for about 23 years. Since my original dentist has retired, I changed clinics for a dental cleaning. About a week afte...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Qin Qin: If a fixed denture is used for a long time, the internal adhesive may gradually wear off. If you feel that the denture is loose after having your teeth cleaned, you should return to the clinic to have the fixed denture removed, clean the inside of the denture ...[Read More] Can Improper Teeth Cleaning Cause Loose Dental Crowns?
Understanding Tooth Sharpness: Questions About Dental Care and Tongue Health
Inquiry Consultation Hello Dr. Tseng: My lower left and right second molars, as well as my lower left first premolar, seem to have become sharper or rougher due to long-term wear. Occasionally, when my tongue touches these teeth, I feel a sharper sensation. I would like to ask Dr...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Mr. Kris: 1. It is recommended to see a dentist for further examination. 2. It is possible that long-term irritation from scraping has led to hyperplasia of the tongue tissue. 3. If you frequently scrape your tongue, it is advisable to consult a dentist to smooth out any sh...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sharpness: Questions About Dental Care and Tongue Health