Persistent Oral Ulcer: White Lesion Concerns and Cancer Risk
Oral ulcer that does not heal and turns into a white patch? Hello Doctor, about two weeks ago I bit my mouth while eating, which caused inflammation and pain. I also developed ulcers on my tongue. I used an oral ointment, and my tongue has healed, but the oral ulcer has not heale...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
In the above situation, if the oral ulcer appears as a round white lesion and does not improve after 10 days, it is recommended to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Persistent Oral Ulcer: White Lesion Concerns and Cancer Risk
Understanding Bite Issues After Jaw Surgery: What to Expect
Occlusal issues, inability to maintain a bite? Hello, doctor. I had orthognathic surgery due to a bite issue, and the occlusion was adjusted during the procedure. It has been three months post-surgery, and I am unable to bite through soft foods; I can only consume liquids. Althou...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, prior to surgery, an assessment of the occlusion should be conducted. The current occlusal space should be evaluated once the surgical results have stabilized (you have been post-operative for 3 months and should be healed). Then, orthodontic treatment can be used to prope...[Read More] Understanding Bite Issues After Jaw Surgery: What to Expect
How to Address Misaligned Teeth After a Head Injury
Shoulder pain? If something fell and hit your head, causing your mouth to appear misaligned and your teeth to be out of their normal arrangement, what should you do?
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, if your chin has suffered a heavy impact, you should see a dentist to check if the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is injured or inflamed, which could lead to malocclusion. Medication or wearing a bite splint can help alleviate the symptoms. Wishing you safety and good healt...[Read More] How to Address Misaligned Teeth After a Head Injury
Understanding Gum Abscesses: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
After the gum abscess is burst, a piece of tissue may come out? Hello Doctor: I have a pus-filled bump on the gum of my lower right third molar (wisdom tooth) that is very swollen and looks like it might burst soon. It is also slightly painful. Previously, when I underwent root c...
Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan Reply:
Dear online user: Based on your description, there is an abscess on the gum of your lower right molar, and the root canal treatment has not been completed. It is recommended that you consult a dentist for an examination and treatment of that tooth, to monitor whether the conditio...[Read More] Understanding Gum Abscesses: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
What to Do If You Can't Swallow After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Wisdom tooth extraction issues? If the dentist advised you to swallow saliva after having your wisdom teeth removed, but your throat is very sore and you can't swallow, try the following: 1. Stay hydrated by sipping on water or clear fluids to help soothe your throat. 2. U...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
After having your wisdom teeth removed, you must bite down on the gauze tightly and swallow your saliva to help stop the bleeding. If you have a sore throat and cannot swallow your saliva, you should promptly return to your dentist to check if the wound has stopped bleeding. If i...[Read More] What to Do If You Can't Swallow After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Trauma: Causes and Solutions
Dental trauma Doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I previously fell and broke one of my front teeth, and now the two adjacent teeth have become very sensitive. They hurt when I lightly tap them, they also hurt when I bite down, and they hurt when I gently press on the...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
The above situation may be due to inflammation of the periodontal ligament surrounding the tooth caused by trauma, leading to increased sensitivity of the nerves within the ligament. It is recommended to avoid consuming hot or cold foods and biting down on hard objects in the sho...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Trauma: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Symptoms and Solutions
Is it temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)? Hello Doctor, I’m not sure if my condition qualifies as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), as I don’t experience pain when opening my mouth. Initially, I felt a clicking sensation in the left joint area when I opened my mouth, an...
Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan Reply:
Dear netizen, Based on your description, it seems that during the process of opening your mouth, you feel a clicking sensation in the left side of the joint. The movement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) appears to be restricted. The TMJ structure contains articular cartila...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Symptoms and Solutions
Why Are You Biting Your Cheek While Eating? Possible Causes Explained
Biting your own cheek or tongue while eating can indicate a few things. It may suggest that you are eating too quickly or not paying enough attention while chewing. This can also be a sign of stress or anxiety, leading to distracted eating habits. In some cases, it might Recently...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Poor sleep quality may lead to an imbalance in the immune system, resulting in symptoms such as gingival inflammation and oral ulcers, which are not directly related to biting one's own cheek. This could be indicative of a neurological issue, and it is advisable to consult a...[Read More] Why Are You Biting Your Cheek While Eating? Possible Causes Explained
How Long After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Can You Eat Normally?
How long after wisdom tooth extraction can I eat on that side? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you some questions. I had my upper and lower left wisdom teeth extracted at the beginning of October. The procedure took almost an hour for both teeth, and I had stitches. Once the a...
Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan Reply:
Dear user, based on your description, it appears that you underwent the extraction of your upper left and lower left wisdom teeth about a month ago and are experiencing occlusal pain in the adjacent teeth. It is recommended that you choose softer foods in your diet and avoid biti...[Read More] How Long After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Can You Eat Normally?
Understanding Tooth Root Residue: Options for Dental Correction and Concerns
Root remnants Doctor, I have four molars that have cavities, causing my adjacent teeth to tilt forward over time, resulting in a slight indentation on my right cheek. I often bite my mouth, and my healing ability seems poor. My upper front teeth are slightly misaligned, leaning t...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, I think it would be best for you to wear the occlusal splint for at least three months to allow the joint to relax. After ensuring there is no malocclusion and you are not frequently biting your cheeks, you can proceed with orthodontic treatment to align your teeth. If the...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Root Residue: Options for Dental Correction and Concerns
Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Bite Issues
After having my wisdom teeth extracted, I feel that my bite is misaligned? Hello, Doctor: A few months ago, I had an X-ray taken, and both of my lower wisdom teeth are at a 45-degree angle, so they are unlikely to erupt. The upper ones have erupted normally. However, recently, my...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further evaluation and to identify the underlying causes of the abnormal bite.[Read More] Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Bite Issues
Understanding Tooth Pain After Dental Procedures: When to See a Dentist
Toothache issues? Hello, doctor. Recently, I went to the dental clinic to fill a cavity (upper left side) and to have my wisdom tooth extracted. For two to three days, I was afraid of disturbing the wound while eating, so I mostly chewed on the right side. It took about 4 to 5 da...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
The above situation may indicate that there is still inflammation at the tooth extraction site. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain After Dental Procedures: When to See a Dentist
Can You Correct Overbite with Existing Dental Implants?
Correcting protruding teeth? Hello Dr. Huang: I have several fixed dental prostheses (one single crown and a three-unit bridge). Can I still undergo orthodontic treatment for protruding teeth? Thank you!
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, since I am not familiar with your current oral condition, I recommend having an orthodontist evaluate it, as you may receive a more appropriate answer. Generally speaking, a single fixed dental prosthesis is unlikely to affect orthodontic treatment; however, the bridge (a ...[Read More] Can You Correct Overbite with Existing Dental Implants?
Understanding Dental Bridge Issues: Causes of Decay and Sensitivity
The natural tooth under the dental bridge has developed decay? The situation is that I had a dental bridge made in August of last year, using titanium alloy. However, the dentist advised me to monitor it for any food trapping, so the bridge was not fully cemented. Recently, I not...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. After more than a year, the titanium alloy dental bridge became loose due to decay of the natural teeth underneath, which may be attributed to the gradual loss of the temporary adhesive used for the bridge. This resulted in a gap between the bridge and the natural teeth, allow...[Read More] Understanding Dental Bridge Issues: Causes of Decay and Sensitivity
Understanding Wisdom Teeth: Small Jaw Issues and Extraction Decisions
Wisdom teeth, the jawbone is too small? Hello Dr. Chang, I have been experiencing some issues with my teeth recently. My four wisdom teeth are all normal (fully erupted, not impacted, and not horizontal). Previously, I had two upper wisdom teeth that erupted first, and since they...
Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan Reply:
Dear user, based on your description, the upper wisdom tooth has been extracted, and the lower wisdom tooth is partially erupted. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can make it difficult to maintain oral hygiene, which may sometimes lead to inflammation or cavities. It is advisable t...[Read More] Understanding Wisdom Teeth: Small Jaw Issues and Extraction Decisions
Understanding Bone Protrusion and Deep Bite: Orthodontic Solutions Explored
Bone fracture correction issues? Hello, I recently consulted about orthodontic issues, and the doctor mentioned that I have a skeletal open bite and deep bite problem. I have consulted with three orthodontic specialists. One doctor insisted that due to my skeletal open bite, I sh...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Ada, Hello. Generally, orthodontists will perform X-ray imaging to analyze the positional relationship of the craniofacial structures in order to determine whether orthognathic surgery is necessary. You may ask your doctor to analyze the predicted outcomes of surgery versus...[Read More] Understanding Bone Protrusion and Deep Bite: Orthodontic Solutions Explored
8 Years in Braces: Addressing Dental Space Issues and Concerns
I have been wearing braces for 8 years? Hello, I got braces in my second year of junior high (now I'm in my third year of college). At that time, I had two extra teeth extracted. Last year, the doctor said there wasn't enough space in my upper teeth and recommended extr...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Due to insufficient space for tooth alignment, it is generally necessary to extract four premolars (two from the upper jaw and two from the lower jaw) to achieve proper alignment. If there are impacted wisdom teeth, they should also be extracted. After that, orthodontic brackets ...[Read More] 8 Years in Braces: Addressing Dental Space Issues and Concerns
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you about my temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It doesn't hurt, but when I open my mouth, I have to first open the right side and hear a click, then the left side also clicks, and I can only open my mouth fully in...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Miss Zhong Zhong, Hello, you have a meniscus displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Direct reduction is difficult because it is not a dislocation. Medication treatment or the use of an occlusal splint can be effective, but it may take a longer time since it is c...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Is It Too Late for Braces at 16? Understanding Dental Correction Timing
About orthodontics? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question. I am 16 years old and have been wanting to get braces to straighten my teeth. I feel that my front teeth are quite large, and I think it affects my appearance a bit; I feel like I have a slight overbite, but i...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
At 16 years old, with prominent front teeth and a slight overbite, it is advisable to consult an orthodontist for further evaluation to determine if orthodontic treatment is appropriate. If the upper and lower jawbones are still in the growth and development phase, different type...[Read More] Is It Too Late for Braces at 16? Understanding Dental Correction Timing
Understanding TMJ Disorders: Symptoms and Concerns for Teens
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) When I open my mouth wide, I hear a sound on the right side. When I close my mouth and lightly bite my teeth together, there is also a sound. Additionally, when I press on the area of my masseter muscle, it feels a bit sore. So far, I am only experie...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Xiao Ming, Hello. The sound when opening and closing your mouth is due to the displacement of the articular disc in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Sometimes, unilateral chewing, nighttime bruxism, or stress from schoolwork can lead to muscle tension and pain, causing th...[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders: Symptoms and Concerns for Teens