Understanding Tooth Pain: Issues with Wisdom Teeth and Dental Implants
Dental issues Hello Doctor, since yesterday, I have been experiencing pain in the tooth next to my upper right wisdom tooth, which got food debris stuck in it. After using dental floss picks a few times, that tooth started to hurt. I have three crowns on my upper front teeth, whi...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It seems that there are symptoms of acute gingivitis in the maxilla. It is advisable to visit a clinic for local cleaning and disinfection.[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: Issues with Wisdom Teeth and Dental Implants
Understanding Hard Bumps on the Upper Jaw: Causes and Concerns
Maxillary issues Hello Doctor, I have a raised lump on my upper jaw that feels hard to the touch. The surface has an irregular shape, and it doesn't hurt or cause any sensation. The color is pink, and it has been present for one month. I do not smoke or chew betel nut. I wou...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Common issues with the maxilla primarily involve a normal structural prominence of the maxillary bone. However, there is still a possibility of wound infections in the hard palate area or other types of bacterial/viral infections in the soft palate region. It is advisable to cons...[Read More] Understanding Hard Bumps on the Upper Jaw: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Palatal Bumps: Should You Worry About Oral Health?
Maxillary issues in the oral cavity? Hello doctor, I have had a lump on my upper jaw for a month. Initially, it felt firm to the touch, but recently I noticed that it is protruding and has an irregular surface. It is not painful or itchy. I would like to know if it could be cance...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the prominence of the maxilla appears to be a normal anatomical structure. However, if you are still very concerned, it is advisable to seek medical attention for an examination as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Palatal Bumps: Should You Worry About Oral Health?
Understanding Upper Jaw Bumps: When to See a Dentist
Maxillary issues Hello Doctor, I have had a bump on my upper jaw for about a month, located near the center. It is pink in color and feels somewhat hard when pressed down (it feels solid overall), but the surface seems to have a fleshy texture (it feels a bit soft but not very so...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the prominence of the maxilla appears to be a normal anatomical structure. If you are still very concerned, you can directly inform the clinic to see if it is possible to schedule an earlier appointment for examination.[Read More] Understanding Upper Jaw Bumps: When to See a Dentist
Should You Remove an Extra Tooth Penetrating the Sinus?
Should the upper gum teeth that penetrate the sinus be extracted? Hello Doctor: I have a noticeable supernumerary tooth that can be palpated within the gum of my upper left jaw. A CT scan revealed that this tooth penetrates the maxillary sinus, but I have no discomfort. Recently,...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult the oral surgery department at a medical center for confirmation. If the tooth is close to the sinus, it is highly likely that general anesthesia will be required for extraction, and it may also involve a referral to an otolaryngologist. Theref...[Read More] Should You Remove an Extra Tooth Penetrating the Sinus?
Understanding Sinus Cysts: Causes, Treatment, and Recurrence Risks
About nasal sinus cysts? Hello, about two years ago, I visited Mackay Memorial Hospital due to swelling and pain on the left side of my face, along with post-nasal drip on the left side. After examination, I was diagnosed with a sinus cyst. Four years prior, I had undergone treat...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. If the cystic area is too large, it may be necessary to first place a drain to reduce the size of the area that will be surgically removed later, minimizing the extent of sacrifice to the bone and surrounding tissues during the surgical procedure. 2. If the drainage and...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Cysts: Causes, Treatment, and Recurrence Risks
Persistent Jaw Pain: Exploring Dental Solutions for Chronic Discomfort
Dental pain/toothache? Hello Doctor: Since the end of 2018, I have had a small round swelling in my right maxilla, which has not subsided or stopped hurting until now. To address this issue, I have undergone 14 root canal treatments, apicoectomies, and subsequently had teeth 15 a...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the oral surgery department at a medical center for a CT scan of the head and neck to confirm if there are any other systemic factors contributing to your inflammatory infection. Additionally, blood tests can be conducted to check the values rela...[Read More] Persistent Jaw Pain: Exploring Dental Solutions for Chronic Discomfort
Consequences of Missing Tooth Replacement: Understanding Tooth Migration
Missing teeth that are not replaced can lead to adjacent teeth shifting downward? Hello, doctor. Several years ago, I had my lower molars extracted and haven't had them replaced since. Recently, I visited a dentist who informed me that the corresponding upper molars have bee...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If appropriate treatment is not provided, it is indeed possible for the maxillary teeth to continue to grow downward. It is advisable to promptly perform root canal treatment on the maxillary teeth, followed by shortening them and protecting them with a crown. This will cr...[Read More] Consequences of Missing Tooth Replacement: Understanding Tooth Migration
Can a CT Scan Confirm a Suspected Tooth Root Fracture?
Examination of dental fractures? The doctor mentioned that the X-ray suggests a possible root fracture, but it's uncertain. I would like to ask if a CT scan can be performed for confirmation. What is the typical out-of-pocket cost for this? I'm not sure if the doctor re...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to first undergo a cone-beam CT scan at your own expense, which typically only includes the maxilla, with prices ranging from $2500 to $3500. After that, you can decide whether to redo the root canal treatment! Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dent...[Read More] Can a CT Scan Confirm a Suspected Tooth Root Fracture?
Understanding Post-Extraction Symptoms: Can Tooth Removal Affect Brain Health?
Are there any complications after tooth extraction? Hello Doctor, I had severe cavities in my upper first and second molars. Last year, I visited a clinic, and the dentist advised that the cavities were too extensive and recommended extraction. After consideration, I followed the...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, 1. The maxillary molar region is indeed closer to the sinuses. If there is a communication with the oral cavity leading to sinusitis, it can indeed cause symptoms such as dizziness and a feeling of pressure in the head. If left untreated, the infection may spread to the ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Extraction Symptoms: Can Tooth Removal Affect Brain Health?
Understanding Oral Cancer Treatment: Key Questions and Considerations
Malignant tumors: Oral cancer issues? My mother underwent an oral biopsy at the hospital a month ago, and the results indicated carcinoma in situ. She was later transferred to another hospital for further management, where the physician deemed it unnecessary to perform another bi...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If the initial biopsy reveals spindle cell carcinoma and a subsequent complete excision of the visible lesions still shows spindle cell carcinoma upon pathological examination, it suggests that the spindle cell carcinoma may have spread to the underlying alveolar bone. Surgical i...[Read More] Understanding Oral Cancer Treatment: Key Questions and Considerations
Understanding Dark Shadows at Tooth Apex: Is Root Canal Necessary?
There is a shadow at the apex, but the tooth is still vital? Hello, I recently had a periapical X-ray taken of my teeth. The dentist mentioned that there is a shadow at the apex of my right incisor (which has no cavities and is not painful). It is suspected to be inflammation or ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit a medical center for a cone beam CT scan of the maxilla. This will help confirm whether there is a pulp disease that requires root canal treatment. Additionally, if there is an apical cyst, it can be monitored over time to assess any improv...[Read More] Understanding Dark Shadows at Tooth Apex: Is Root Canal Necessary?
Post-Apex Surgery Complications: Silver Powder Filling and Pain Issues
Retrograde filling with silver powder after apical surgery? Dear Doctor, after undergoing apicoectomy and filling the cavity with silver powder at a traditional dental clinic, I have been experiencing dull pain on one side of my face, particularly in the nasal cavity and orbital ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Silver powder retrograde filling has been in practice for many years. Although it is not the most ideal method, it is considered "acceptable." Nowadays, MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate) is also quite popular, and if there are no economic considerations, using MTA...[Read More] Post-Apex Surgery Complications: Silver Powder Filling and Pain Issues
Understanding Tooth Pain: When Sinus Issues Overlap with Dental Health
Molar toothache Hello, doctor... I have been experiencing symptoms of sinusitis for six months, and this week I had a CT scan of my ears and nose. The doctor at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital said there is inflammation at the junction above the first and second molars and th...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on your condition, it is usually recommended to observe. If the source of the inflammation or infection is from a tooth, it will definitely be visible on imaging after some time. If it is not from a tooth, further confirmation is needed to check for other sources of ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: When Sinus Issues Overlap with Dental Health
Understanding Upper Jaw Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Maxillary issues Hello, at the end of June, I started experiencing severe pain in the anterior part of my upper palate. Later, I noticed a red area that feels rough and causes a sharp pain when I eat or touch it. However, when I lick that spot with my tongue, it feels smoother, a...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It may be related to oral burning sensation and geographic tongue, but it could also be due to inflammation or infection of the maxillary mucosa or mucosal reactions caused by certain medications. It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon or an oral pathologist for further dia...[Read More] Understanding Upper Jaw Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Swelling in Cheek After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do?
Swelling in the cheek? Hello, doctor. I had a horizontal wisdom tooth extraction on May 25. Later, on June 3, my family noticed that my cheeks were uneven in size. At that time, I didn't think much of it since it was shortly after the extraction. However, by early July, I re...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: You can first visit the original dental clinic where the tooth was extracted to take a panoramic X-ray to check for any issues with the maxilla or mandible. If there are no abnormalities in the hard tissue, you may then go to the family medicine department or the otolaryng...[Read More] Swelling in Cheek After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do?
Impacted Wisdom Teeth and the Need for a New Bite Splint?
Occlusal splints and wisdom tooth issues? Hello Doctor, my upper wisdom tooth has partially erupted. This morning I noticed that the tissue behind my lower molar is swollen and painful, but the lower wisdom tooth has already been extracted. I suspect that clenching my teeth while...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Most occlusal splints do not cover the area of the wisdom teeth. However, it is advisable to call the clinic where you had the occlusal splint impression taken and inform them about the extraction of your maxillary wisdom teeth for a second confirmation. Sincerely, Lin Chi...[Read More] Impacted Wisdom Teeth and the Need for a New Bite Splint?
Is It Safe to Remove Wisdom Teeth Stitches After 23 Days?
Is it possible to remove the stitches 23 days, or about three weeks, after wisdom tooth extraction? Would that be too long? Hello Dr. Lin, I had my wisdom teeth extracted on May 13 at a major hospital. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the hospital postponed my suture removal to Jun...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is strongly recommended that you have the original surgeon remove the sutures, as they are more familiar with the location, number, and method of tying the sutures. This is a response from Dr. Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health...[Read More] Is It Safe to Remove Wisdom Teeth Stitches After 23 Days?
The Connection Between Teeth Alignment and Allergic Rhinitis
The relationship between orthodontics and the nose? Hello, doctor. Is there a relationship between dental orthodontics and allergic rhinitis? I have had malocclusion and severe crowding since childhood, along with significant post-nasal drip. Recently, I saw news reports suggesti...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The second maxillary premolar and the first maxillary molar are located very close to the maxillary sinus. If there is inflammation in the teeth, it can indeed affect the sinus, leading to nasal symptoms. It is recommended to visit a nearby medical facility for an X-ray to...[Read More] The Connection Between Teeth Alignment and Allergic Rhinitis
Should You Get a Root Canal or Keep Filling Your Front Tooth?
Root canal treatment for incisors? The front tooth has some decay that has been removed, but it is not severe enough to require a root canal. However, after previously biting down on something hard, it fractured and has been filled several times, but the fillings tend to fall out...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you frequently use your anterior teeth for chewing, it is advisable to consider root canal treatment followed by a crown for the maxillary anterior teeth. However, it is important to monitor the condition of the mandibular anterior teeth over time to check for any wear ...[Read More] Should You Get a Root Canal or Keep Filling Your Front Tooth?