Understanding Periodontal Treatment: Addressing Pain and Confusion After Dental Procedures
Periodontal disease treatment Hello, Dr. Tseng. I had an inlay/onlay/overlay placed a week ago, and during my follow-up visit today, I mentioned that the gums around my lower right first molar hurt when touched by my fingertip (accidentally while using dental floss). However, the...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The initial treatment for periodontal disease begins with X-ray examinations to assess the condition of the alveolar bone around the teeth. If periodontal disease or gingivitis is diagnosed, the first step is to perform scaling and provide oral hygiene education. After a period o...[Read More] Understanding Periodontal Treatment: Addressing Pain and Confusion After Dental Procedures
Should You Stop Taking Medications Before Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Can wisdom teeth be extracted? If you are taking Emagel (or any medication containing the active ingredient), do you need to stop taking it before having your wisdom teeth extracted? Thank you for your response!
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Enmei Hall is a diabetes medication, and to prevent infection at the extraction site, it is essential to maintain good diabetes control. Therefore, it is important to continue taking diabetes medications as prescribed before undergoing wisdom tooth extraction. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui...[Read More] Should You Stop Taking Medications Before Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Managing Gum Swelling and Pain: When to See Your Dentist Again
Gum swelling and pain? Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing tooth pain on the 8th, and on the 9th, I noticed significant swelling in the gums near my lower molars, which felt soft to the touch (suspected to contain pus). I visited a dental clinic where the dentist performed a ro...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If there is still gum swelling after root canal treatment, it indicates that there may still be an infection. 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] Managing Gum Swelling and Pain: When to See Your Dentist Again
Water Laser Periodontal Treatment vs. Flap Surgery: Key Differences Explained
Water laser periodontal treatment Hello, Doctor: During my visit to the clinic, the doctor mentioned that my periodontal disease is currently in a moderate to severe state and suggested the use of a new technique called "water laser periodontal therapy." I would like to...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
In cases of moderate to severe periodontal disease, in addition to traditional flap surgery for periodontal treatment, there is also laser periodontal therapy available. However, traditional periodontal treatment should be the primary consideration. It is recommended to consult w...[Read More] Water Laser Periodontal Treatment vs. Flap Surgery: Key Differences Explained
Recovering from a Dental Injury: When to See a Dentist for Tooth Trauma
Front tooth impact? I have a dental implant for my front tooth (from several years ago). Recently, I fell and injured it, resulting in bruising of the gums and the root of the front tooth. Currently, the front tooth is not loose, but I am unable to bite down on anything, although...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Fanny: After an injury to the front teeth, it is possible to damage the periodontal ligament and gums, and even cause root fracture. However, if the front teeth are not loose after some time but you are unable to eat, it indicates that the periodontal ligament has not fully...[Read More] Recovering from a Dental Injury: When to See a Dentist for Tooth Trauma
How to Address a Damaged Dental Bridge After Adjustment?
The dental bridge has worn down? Hello Doctor, I had a dental bridge placed on March 1, 2021. When it was completed, the doctor adjusted the height but ended up damaging my bridge. The white prosthetic tooth has developed a small black spot, and the doctor did not inform me about...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello, Xuan Xuan: The dental bridge you received is likely a metal-ceramic crown, which consists of a metal core covered with a layer of porcelain. It is possible that during the occlusal adjustment, the porcelain surface was ground down, exposing the underlying metal shell. If a...[Read More] How to Address a Damaged Dental Bridge After Adjustment?
Common Questions About Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedures and Concerns
Questions about wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor: 1. What are the general steps for wisdom tooth extraction? Is it X-ray --- explanation of the surgical procedure --- anesthesia --- tooth extraction --- suturing --- postoperative recovery? If the doctor did not follow the ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
1. Taking an X-ray before wisdom tooth extraction is essential for assessing the difficulty of the extraction and the size of the postoperative wound. Generally, unless the wisdom tooth is deeply impacted, the X-ray can clearly show the position of the tooth. 2. It is recommended...[Read More] Common Questions About Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedures and Concerns
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Burning Sensation After Dental Work
Tooth sensitivity and burning sensation in the cheek after dental filling? Initially, I felt an unusual sensation around the gums of my lower front teeth, specifically 3 to 4 teeth. Biting into things would elicit a strange feeling that wasn't exactly painful but was bothers...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
1. After dental cleaning, if there was a significant buildup of tartar, the teeth may exhibit sensitivity symptoms once the cleaning is completed. 2. If sensitivity occurs after dental cleaning and subsequent filling of cavities, an X-ray should be taken to assess whether the ori...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Burning Sensation After Dental Work
Do You Really Need Deep Cleaning? Understanding Dental Care Decisions
Deep cleaning dental procedure After my recent dental cleaning, the dentist suddenly informed me that I needed a deep cleaning, but did not use a periodontal probe to confirm this. I usually do not experience any tooth or gum pain, and the only issue is occasional gum bleeding wh...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello, if you experience bleeding while brushing your teeth, it indicates that plaque or tartar is still attached to the neck of the teeth or the surface of the roots, and there may even be periodontal pockets forming. The calculus attached to the root surface must be thoroughly ...[Read More] Do You Really Need Deep Cleaning? Understanding Dental Care Decisions
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Collagen Implant Concerns and Insights
Post-operative collagen implantation after wisdom tooth extraction issues? Hello, Doctor. I had my upper left and lower left wisdom teeth extracted on February 26. However, after the extraction of the upper left tooth, I experienced continuous bleeding until February 27 (*1). I c...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello A-Guang: 1. After tooth extraction, if bleeding is difficult to control, it may be due to the extraction process affecting larger blood vessels, issues with your own coagulation function, or tearing of soft tissue during the extraction. It is advisable to consult your den...[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Collagen Implant Concerns and Insights
Do Hard Foods Strengthen Teeth and Prevent Tooth Loss?
Does chewing hard foods help strengthen teeth? There is a common belief that chewing hard foods can help strengthen teeth and prevent tooth loss in older age. Is there any evidence to support this?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Exercising normal chewing function can help train the teeth, but it is still important to maintain good oral hygiene. For elderly individuals, as the periodontal tissues gradually degenerate, it is not recommended for them to consume overly hard foods. - Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Depa...[Read More] Do Hard Foods Strengthen Teeth and Prevent Tooth Loss?
Understanding Dental Bridges: How Many Teeth Should You Replace?
Number of units for anterior dental bridge fabrication? Hello Doctor: My left central incisor was extracted due to a fractured root, and the adjacent incisors have undergone root canal treatment but have not been crowned for several years. The doctor suggested a bridge of four to...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello JoJo: When creating a dental bridge for the front teeth, it is important to consider the number of supporting teeth. There must be enough supporting teeth to adequately support the edentulous area. Additionally, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment also need to be...[Read More] Understanding Dental Bridges: How Many Teeth Should You Replace?
Understanding Non-Painful Oral Mucosal Protrusions: Causes and Solutions
There is a linear protrusion on the left side of the oral mucosa? Recently, I noticed a long protrusion on the left side of my cheek inside my mouth, extending from the molars to the back. It is not painful. What could this be? Will it go away on its own? Thank you.
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Generally, it is an inflammatory response of the oral mucosa, which may be caused by emotional or psychological stress leading to an imbalance in the immune system. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nanto...[Read More] Understanding Non-Painful Oral Mucosal Protrusions: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Darker Front Teeth: Should You Consider Root Canal Treatment?
The color of the incisors is darker? Hello, Doctor. I have a front tooth that is darker in color. At my regular dental clinic, the dentist mentioned that this tooth is abnormal and may have issues such as nerve damage or calcification, recommending that I undergo root canal treat...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Abnormal tooth color can be due to extrinsic staining from substances such as tea, coffee, or tobacco. It may also result from poor calcification of the teeth or degeneration and necrosis of the dental pulp. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination to determ...[Read More] Understanding Darker Front Teeth: Should You Consider Root Canal Treatment?
Understanding Dental Grafting: Risks and Success Rates Explained
Bone grafting for dental implants? Dear Doctor: During my dental implant procedure, I had some soft tissue grafting. Is there a possibility of graft failure? I have a hole in my gum that looks like the graft has fallen out. The doctor mentioned that I need to have it redone. Is i...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
As long as the brushing technique is correct and good oral hygiene is maintained, the repaired gum tissue can last for a long time. It is recommended to have regular follow-up visits after the repair. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Dental Grafting: Risks and Success Rates Explained
Persistent Pain in Tooth Before Wisdom Tooth: Is It Normal?
Pain in the tooth adjacent to the wisdom tooth? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question! Initially, I went to the clinic because of pain in my lower tooth (the one in front of my wisdom tooth). After an X-ray, they said I needed to have my wisdom tooth extracted and ref...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
A few days after having wisdom teeth removed, the tooth in front may feel sore due to inflammation at the extraction site. It is recommended to keep the extraction site clean and to have regular follow-up appointments for examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry,...[Read More] Persistent Pain in Tooth Before Wisdom Tooth: Is It Normal?
Lost Filling: How to Protect Your Tooth Before Root Canal Treatment
The dental filling has come out? Today, while brushing my teeth, the filling came out. I immediately went to the clinic, and since the cavity was very deep, the dentist recommended root canal treatment, scheduling a follow-up appointment in one month. However, the cavity was not ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If the cavity is deep and requires root canal treatment, it is recommended to keep the area as clean as possible before the procedure and to avoid consuming irritating foods that may further stimulate the nerve. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Lost Filling: How to Protect Your Tooth Before Root Canal Treatment
Understanding Enamel Damage and Tooth Sensitivity: A Dental Guide
Enamel damage and dental caries? Hello, Doctor. I have two questions I would like to ask: 1. I had a dental check-up yesterday, and the dentist found that the inner root of my upper left second molar is sensitive. The dentist determined that it was due to excessive brushing cau...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Xiaomei: 1. It is possible that despite having a deep cavity filled, the dental pulp may still be inflamed. It is recommended to return for a check-up with the dentist. 2. If the cavity is very deep and has been filled, it may still cause recurrent inflammation of the denta...[Read More] Understanding Enamel Damage and Tooth Sensitivity: A Dental Guide
Understanding Post-Filling Pain: What to Expect After Dental Work
It is common to experience pain after a dental filling? On February 10th, I went for a dental filling, and the dentist mentioned that the cavity was quite deep. Starting from February 11th, I have been experiencing pain in the gum area where the filling was done.
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Lin: It is common to experience pain after a dental filling. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist to check for any signs of gingivitis, which may require further treatment. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Post-Filling Pain: What to Expect After Dental Work
Understanding Tooth Fractures: When to Consider Root Canals
Tooth fracture issues? Hello Doctor: On January 12, I lost four teeth due to a car accident. I have already undergone root canal treatment and am planning to get all-ceramic crowns. However, there is an adjacent tooth that, while not fractured, still has some sensitivity. It does...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The tooth is not fractured but feels a bit sensitive; this is generally due to inflammation of the periodontal ligament caused by compression. If the tooth is not mobile, maintaining good oral hygiene will allow it to gradually recover on its own. However, it is also possible tha...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Fractures: When to Consider Root Canals