Concerns About Nighttime Teeth Grinding After Gum Surgery
I have a history of nighttime teeth grinding and recently underwent a flap surgery, and I'm a bit concerned? Dr. Lin: Hello, Doctor. I have a condition of nocturnal bruxism and recently underwent a flap surgery between my lower left molars and premolars, along with bone graf...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you create a maxillary Michigan bite splint to be worn at night, in conjunction with muscle relaxants, to prevent excessive nighttime bruxism that could lead to tooth or root fractures.[Read More] Concerns About Nighttime Teeth Grinding After Gum Surgery
Proper Tongue Positioning: Key to Preventing Dental Issues
Tongue positioning? Hello, doctor. What is the correct position for the tongue? I read online that it should rest against the hard palate with the mouth closed to prevent protruding teeth, but when I close my mouth, my tongue naturally presses against my front teeth. Doesn't...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
As long as the tongue does not intentionally push against the front teeth, it should not cause protruding teeth. The likely causes of protruding teeth are the shape of the upper and lower jawbones being too prominent or insufficient space in the dental arch leading to the protrus...[Read More] Proper Tongue Positioning: Key to Preventing Dental Issues
Understanding Tooth Issues After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Tooth issues: molars? Hello Dr. Lin! I recently had my upper right and lower right wisdom teeth extracted in March, and now I feel like my upper right first molar is too high when I bite down, as if something is pressing against my teeth. When I had the stitches from the lower wi...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, "I have been eating with my left side and then shifting to the right," it seems that there are two or more centric occlusions, leading to instability and imbalance on both sides. Some individuals may experience symptoms such as cheek ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Issues After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Understanding Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Expect
Pain after wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor, I had severe inflammation of my wisdom tooth a week before extraction (swollen gums, facial swelling, and inability to bite down). After taking antibiotics for a week, the swelling decreased, but there was still mild pain. I then ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the pain has reached a level that prevents you from sleeping, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment. Please have the doctor confirm that there is no bacterial infection and consider increasing the anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication. Otherwise, ...[Read More] Understanding Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Expect
Alternative Solutions for Front Tooth Repair Beyond Resin Fillings
Incisal restoration issues? Good afternoon, Doctor. I would like to ask the following question: My upper front tooth (tooth #11) sustained a chip due to a sports injury 20 years ago. At that time, the dentist assessed that it did not require a dental implant or crown, so they fil...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is possible that changes in occlusion over the past 20 years have caused the resin used for the lower jaw restoration to no longer withstand the occlusal forces. If the teeth are still deemed viable upon evaluation, root canal treatment (due to a previous injury) can be...[Read More] Alternative Solutions for Front Tooth Repair Beyond Resin Fillings
Understanding Dental Splints: Addressing Cracked Teeth and Treatment Concerns
Cracked tooth crown Hello, thank you for taking the time to respond. 🙏 I have a lower molar that seems to be grinding frequently, resulting in a diagonal crack on the occlusal surface and a periodontal abscess. After four sessions of root canal treatment (with rubber dam isolatio...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen, Question 1: Using cotton gauze to prevent moisture is also acceptable. Question 2: A dental crown or a dental cap can be used for cracked teeth, with the purpose of reducing the deepening of the cracks. Question 3: The observation period for cracked teeth var...[Read More] Understanding Dental Splints: Addressing Cracked Teeth and Treatment Concerns
Understanding Tooth Pain After Filling: Causes and Solutions
Tooth pain after dental filling? During my dental cleaning and X-ray, some cavities were discovered, with two being close to the nerve. The dentist mentioned that after filling, there shouldn't be any pain, so root canal treatment wouldn't be necessary. Initially, the g...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. You may want to ask if the tooth had these symptoms before the dental filling and cleaning. If there were already symptoms of sensitivity to cold and pain, it is advisable to observe for about six months. 2. After the dental tissue in the cavity area is prepared, the to...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain After Filling: Causes and Solutions
Essential Considerations for Orthodontics and Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide
Orthodontics (Invisalign), periodontal integration, and maxillary removable dentures causing difficulty in eating? 1. Is it necessary to be free of periodontal disease in order to undergo orthodontic treatment (Invisalign)? 2. Should cavities be filled and a periodontal treatment...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. It is essential to complete the treatment of periodontal disease before orthodontic treatment. 2. Prior to orthodontic treatment, any cavities should be filled, and periodontal disease treatment must be completed. 3. It is advisable to consult an orthodontist regarding the...[Read More] Essential Considerations for Orthodontics and Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Dental Bridge Issues: Discomfort and Solutions
Dental bridge issues Hello doctor, I recently got a new dental bridge and have been trying it for almost a month. I've adjusted my bite a few times, but whenever I eat, the first tooth feels uncomfortable and is hitting against something. Is it possible that the angle of the...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If the dental bridge feels too high, it may indicate that the occlusal surface is elevated. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment to have the prosthesis adjusted by a dentist. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Dental Bridge Issues: Discomfort and Solutions
Frustration with Invisalign: No Improvement for Prominent Teeth
Orthodontic treatment for protruding teeth with no improvement? I have straight teeth, but my overbite is very noticeable. X-rays show that the angle of my upper teeth could be around 120 to 130 degrees. I consulted with a doctor about whether Invisalign could improve my overbite...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to discuss clearly with the physician what the final goals are, such as improving the protrusion of the lips and the degree to which the teeth are retracted. There should be a clear treatment plan with precise measurements and even computer software predict...[Read More] Frustration with Invisalign: No Improvement for Prominent Teeth
TMJ Fractures After Car Accident: Treatment Options and Concerns
Temporomandibular joint fracture due to a car accident? Hello Doctor, I was in a car accident on September 22, where I sustained fractures in the area of the bilateral mandible and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (the doctor mentioned that the small fragments on both sides are not ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. A joint discussion should be conducted by oral and maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists to propose possible treatment options for further discussion. 2. If normal occlusion cannot be restored solely through orthodontic means, displacement should be considered. 3. It is rec...[Read More] TMJ Fractures After Car Accident: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Persistent Pain After Microscopic Root Canal Treatment
Microscopic Root Canal Treatment Hello Doctor: I completed root canal treatment at the end of November last year, but I have been experiencing persistent dull pain, pain when tapping, and pain when biting down on food. Therefore, I switched to another clinic for microscopic root ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Since the root canal treatment was completed in January, it is recommended to observe for at least three months before deciding on any more aggressive treatments (such as apicoectomy, flap regeneration, or extraction followed by dental implants). It may also be beneficial ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pain After Microscopic Root Canal Treatment
Is Bleeding Gums Normal After Dental Cleaning? Tips to Stop It
Gum bleeding I went to the dentist at 2 PM, and they said I had dental plaque. The dentist used a scaler, and it took until almost 5 PM. My gums are still bleeding; is this normal? What can I do to stop the bleeding?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If there is bleeding from the gums after dental treatment, it indicates that the gums are still inflamed, or there may be an underlying coagulation disorder, or the patient may be on anticoagulants due to cardiovascular disease affecting coagulation function. It is recommended to...[Read More] Is Bleeding Gums Normal After Dental Cleaning? Tips to Stop It
Understanding Jaw Pain: Is It Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Two weeks ago, I woke up one morning and noticed that when my teeth were clenched, I experienced pain in front of my left ear, which radiated to the area around my left temple. I initially thought that resting for a few days would h...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have already seen two doctors who provided similar diagnoses, it is advisable to follow their recommendations. However, if you are still very concerned, it is suggested that you visit an oral and maxillofacial surgery department at a medical center to determine if a...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Pain: Is It Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
Understanding Root Canal Treatment: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Root canal treatment Hello, Doctor! I had a root canal treatment on my upper right second molar a year ago. Last Saturday, after doing a rapid test, I accidentally poked my right nostril, causing some bleeding. Initially, the tooth experienced occasional sharp pain, but after tak...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to observe for a few months. If the pain subsides, you may consider getting a dental crown for protection. If the X-ray examination reveals any issues, then consider whether to extract the tooth.[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Treatment: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Can Dental Implants Affect Healthy Teeth? Understanding Treatment Options
Dental implants, damaged healthy teeth? Hello, I have a dental implant that is too long and needs to be reduced, but the dentist filed it down too much, causing pain when I bite. Can this tooth still be treated? Will it recover? The dentist said I need a root canal treatment. Is ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If a tooth is experiencing sensitivity and requires a root canal, it is recommended to place a crown after the procedure to protect the tooth and prevent it from becoming brittle. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Can Dental Implants Affect Healthy Teeth? Understanding Treatment Options
Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Symptoms
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Hello Doctor: My symptoms include daily unilateral tinnitus, unilateral ear pain, ear itching, migraines, occasional eye pain, and unilateral occipital pain. These symptoms have persisted for over six months. I wear a bite guard whi...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If the cause of tinnitus or ear noise is due to temporomandibular joint disorder, it is recommended to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for examination. However, if the cause of tinnitus or ear noise cannot be determined, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a neurolo...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Symptoms
Post-Root Canal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Treatment?
Discomfort symptoms after root canal treatment? Hello, I completed a root canal treatment on my lower left second molar two weeks ago, and I had the filling done last Tuesday. After each treatment, I typically experience a dull ache a few days later, and even now, I still have so...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: "The original dentist believes that I do not need braces." >> It is advisable to follow the original dentist's recommendation for now. If braces are needed in the future, please have the original dentist create them or refer you to an appropriate prost...[Read More] Post-Root Canal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Treatment?
Dealing with a Broken Front Tooth: Pain, Treatment, and Concerns
The front tooth is broken? Hello, I fell and broke my right front tooth. My left front tooth is not broken but it hurts. I thought I needed to make an appointment with the dentist, so I didn't go immediately. I went to the hospital the next morning, and they said I need a ro...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If a tooth is fractured but not severely, it can be temporarily restored and monitored. If the adjacent intact incisor is painful, it may indicate injury to the periodontal ligament. If the pain is not severe, it can be observed for a while. However, if the pain persists or if th...[Read More] Dealing with a Broken Front Tooth: Pain, Treatment, and Concerns
Managing Dental Concerns: Can I Separate My Crowns Safely?
Continuation of question #191003? Thank you for your response, doctor. I have had an adjustment to my bite during my follow-up visit, but my canine tooth is still slightly mobile. There are no teeth behind the first molar, and I do not want to damage my teeth further. I would lik...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: At this stage, if you truly feel that the four-unit dental bridge is shaking beyond your tolerance, cutting it in the middle is indeed a feasible and more conservative long-term treatment option. It is advisable to discuss this thoroughly with your treating dentist before ...[Read More] Managing Dental Concerns: Can I Separate My Crowns Safely?