Lips, Dentistry FAQ

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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:
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


Post-Accident Dental Concerns: Understanding Gum and Tooth Issues

The gums feel unusual after the car accident? Hello, Doctor! I was in a car accident on February 3rd, and I sustained multiple injuries on the right side of my body, including a fracture of my right cheek and right thigh. My lips were also injured and required stitches. Initially...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Hsu: If the teeth surrounded by the gums are lower than the other teeth, it may be due to gum recession. If the teeth affected by the accident feel uncomfortable, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment and have a dentist conduct a thorough examination.

[Read More] Post-Accident Dental Concerns: Understanding Gum and Tooth Issues


Understanding Occlusal Splint Thickness and Its Impact on Jaw Closure

Thickness of the occlusal splint? Hello, I recently had an occlusal splint made due to issues with my temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The splint is placed on my lower teeth, and I feel that it is too thick and protruding. I have to "struggle" to close my lips, and when I...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Ms. Yeh, Due to the certain thickness of the occlusal splint on the occlusal surface, wearing the splint can increase the vertical dimension of occlusion, which helps alleviate the pressure on the temporomandibular joint and allows the masticatory muscles to relax and rest....

[Read More] Understanding Occlusal Splint Thickness and Its Impact on Jaw Closure


Understanding Tongue Ulcers: When to Seek Medical Advice

Tongue ulcer protrusion I do not smoke or chew betel nut, but I frequently experience oral ulcers (on my lips, tongue, and the front part of my throat). After an ulcer on my tongue this time, it swelled up, and I accidentally bit the wound, resulting in an irregular protrusion wi...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Nini: If the ulcer has not healed after more than a week, or if there is a hard lump in the ulcerated area, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment to consider a biopsy. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

[Read More] Understanding Tongue Ulcers: When to Seek Medical Advice


Persistent Upper Lip Discomfort After Apical Cyst Treatment: What to Do?

After the treatment of the apical cyst, there is still tenderness in the upper lip? Hello, Doctor. Six to seven years ago, I underwent root canal treatment and had crowns placed on my upper front teeth. However, in January 2022, I developed an apical cyst on the canine tooth on m...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Cat: It is recommended that if you still feel discomfort in your lips after the apical surgery, you should return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for further observation. This may include taking X-rays to check if the jawbone is healing as expected. Dr. Ts...

[Read More] Persistent Upper Lip Discomfort After Apical Cyst Treatment: What to Do?


Understanding Oral White Lines: When to Seek Dental Advice

Follow-up Inquiry #199703 Dear Dr. Tseng, Thank you very much for your response and explanation regarding the inquiry in "<a href='https://adoctor.tw/article/199703'>#199703</a>". I have understood it clearly. I would like to ask Dr. Tseng the fol...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Kris: 1. The term "protrusion" refers to the tactile sensation of roughness upon palpation. If it is only slightly protruding, it may be due to mechanical irritation of the mucosa caused by the friction between the upper and lower teeth during occlusion, leadi...

[Read More] Understanding Oral White Lines: When to Seek Dental Advice


Understanding Oral Mucosal Friction Keratosis: Common Concerns and Treatments

Inquiry Consultation Hello Dr. Tseng: I have a white line on the left side of the inner wall of my mouth that has been present for a long time and is not painful, swollen, or itchy. After researching, it seems to be a white line formed by "oral mucosal frictional keratosis,&...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Kris, 1. The keratosis does not present any significant lumps or protrusions; it is recommended to monitor it. 2. Consider whether you frequently rub the inner mucosa of the left side while biting, and if the area of friction includes the inner corners of the mouth. It ...

[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosal Friction Keratosis: Common Concerns and Treatments


Roughness Inside Lips: Causes and Recovery After Burns

Roughness on the inner side of the lips? Hello doctor, about two to three weeks ago, I burned my mouth while drinking something hot. Since then, my tongue feels rough when I lick it, and when I pucker my lips, they wrinkle. It doesn't hurt, but it easily shows teeth marks, a...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Ou: If you have burned your mouth, it may cause ulceration of the oral mucosa or damage to the surface of the oral mucosa. However, as long as you maintain oral hygiene, the oral mucosa generally heals on its own. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hos...

[Read More] Roughness Inside Lips: Causes and Recovery After Burns


Post-Orthodontic Retainer Wear: Duration and Comfort Solutions

Duration of Retainer Wear After Orthodontic Treatment Hello, Doctor. I am currently four days post-orthodontic treatment. During the treatment, I had four teeth extracted and bone screws were used. Now, my doctor has provided me with a clear retainer. My concern is that when I we...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It has been four days since your orthodontic treatment. I strongly recommend that you follow the doctor's instructions and wear the retainer. If it affects your speech or appearance, you can discuss with your doctor the possibility of switching to a different type of ...

[Read More] Post-Orthodontic Retainer Wear: Duration and Comfort Solutions


Understanding Retainer Wear Time After Orthodontic Treatment

Duration of Retainer Wear After Orthodontic Treatment Hello Doctor, I am currently four days post-orthodontic treatment. During the treatment, I had four teeth extracted and bone screws were used. Now, my doctor has instructed me to wear a clear retainer. My concern is that when ...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It's been four days since your orthodontic treatment. I strongly recommend that you follow the doctor's instructions and wear the retainer. If it affects your speech or appearance, you can discuss with your doctor the possibility of switching to a different type ...

[Read More] Understanding Retainer Wear Time After Orthodontic Treatment


Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Discomfort: When to Seek Dental Care

Recently, I've been experiencing discomfort in my teeth and gums? Hello Doctor, last month I experienced sensitivity in my lower left molar when drinking hot and cold water, so I had a full dental X-ray taken, which showed no cavities. However, I noticed sensitivity when air...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Jiang: The pain and sensitivity you are experiencing in the gaps between your front teeth and gums may be due to gingival inflammation or gum recession, which can lead to enlarged gaps that trap food debris. In addition to using a toothbrush and dental floss to clean yo...

[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Discomfort: When to Seek Dental Care


Understanding Clear Retainers: Addressing Bite Issues and Discomfort

Clear retainer Hello Doctor, I recently finished my orthodontic treatment and have just started wearing my clear retainer. However, I've noticed that only my last molars are making contact, while the front teeth are slightly apart, resembling an open bite, with a gap of abou...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The device you mentioned is more similar to a Michigan splint or an Invisalign-related device (which elevates the teeth/increases facial height/prevents the upper and lower teeth from tightly occluding), rather than a clear retainer. I recommend calling the clinic first to...

[Read More] Understanding Clear Retainers: Addressing Bite Issues and Discomfort


Dealing with Oral Discomfort After Orthodontic Treatment: Solutions Explored

After orthodontic treatment, the teeth may scrape against the oral mucosa? Dear Dr. Tseng, Before orthodontic treatment, the alignment of my upper teeth was comfortable. However, after completing the treatment, one of my upper teeth (the one next to the front tooth) has a rough ...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Deb: If you frequently experience discomfort from friction on the inner mucosa of your lower lip, you should consider whether the alignment of your incisors is off. It is recommended that if you have periodontal disease, you should first treat the periodontal condition ...

[Read More] Dealing with Oral Discomfort After Orthodontic Treatment: Solutions Explored


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


Understanding Infection Control in Dental Practices: Key Safety Measures

Infection issues 1. Are the paper towels commonly used by general dentists placed on the patient's chest disposable or reusable after cleaning? 2. Is the chain clip that is placed around the patient's neck also disposable? If it is not disposable, is it disinfected be...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. There are disposable waterproof towels as well as reusable towels that have been sterilized through high-temperature and high-pressure methods. 2. The metal clips will be disinfected with 75% alcohol spray. The metal clips only come into contact with the patient's ...

[Read More] Understanding Infection Control in Dental Practices: Key Safety Measures


Understanding Red Bumps on Lips: When to Seek Dental Care

A red spot on the lip? Hello Doctor, it seems that I might have bitten this area while eating, but I'm not entirely sure if it's the spot indicated by the arrow. Today, I suddenly noticed that when I feel this location with my tongue, there is a small red bump that does...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. It could be a blister or an infection. If it breaks and there is no discomfort or persistent bleeding, it is advisable to monitor it. 2. If it does not resolve after two weeks, you should see a doctor for an examination. 3. Both are acceptable. 4. If there is ongoing pain or r...

[Read More] Understanding Red Bumps on Lips: When to Seek Dental Care


Understanding Oral Discomfort: When to See a Dentist or ENT Specialist

Oral issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing dryness and sensitivity on the inner sides of my mouth (the inner sides of my upper and lower lips). Eating spicy foods causes pain and a burning sensation, but there are no visible abnormalities; it just looks dry and...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: For the lips, it is recommended to apply some lip balm or a similar moisturizing product before bedtime. The gums naturally secrete gingival crevicular fluid, and unless the patient is a heavy smoker, the gums typically do not become excessively dry. For the phlegm issue, ...

[Read More] Understanding Oral Discomfort: When to See a Dentist or ENT Specialist


Managing Gum Swelling and Ulcers During Orthodontic Treatment

Swelling and ulceration of the upper gums? Hello, doctor. I am currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, and I suddenly have swelling in my upper gums. (Is it common for gums to become weak during orthodontic treatment?) My gums have some ulcerations (there are a few small hole...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, please use the oral ointment in moderation and do not apply too much! Additionally, pay attention to whether there are widespread blisters or ulcerations on the lips and hard palate, as this may indicate a possible herpes virus opportunistic infection (especially in cases ...

[Read More] Managing Gum Swelling and Ulcers During Orthodontic Treatment


Understanding Apex Cysts: When to Monitor or Consider Surgery

Apical cyst Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing mild discomfort and sensitivity in my lower front teeth, so I visited a dental clinic. The dentist performed X-rays, pulp vitality tests, and a CT scan, which revealed a cyst between my lower front teeth. The electric ...


Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The greatest risk of surgery is the potential loss of teeth that have developed on the cyst. If the physician assesses that observation is advisable, then surgery should not be hastily performed. Otherwise, the loss of lower front teeth would require extensive reconstructi...

[Read More] Understanding Apex Cysts: When to Monitor or Consider Surgery


Understanding Oral Mucosa Swelling: Causes and Remedies

Oral mucosal erythema and swelling? Hello Doctor: I have noticed that the inner lining of my upper and lower lips, as well as my hard palate, suddenly swells up and becomes red. It doesn't hurt, but it feels uncomfortable. During this time, my gums feel a bit wrinkled when I...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It may be related to the minor salivary glands in the mucosa of the upper and lower lips. Irregular lifestyle and high emotional stress can lead to immune system dysregulation, resulting in symptoms such as inflammation of the minor salivary glands or cracks at the corners of the...

[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosa Swelling: Causes and Remedies


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