Understanding Tooth Pain and Mobility: Common Dental Concerns Explained
Toothache and tooth mobility issues? Hello Dr. Lin, I sometimes experience tooth pain, specifically in the lower right molar area. About a year ago, I visited a dentist, and after eating small foods (like sesame seeds), I would feel pain. An X-ray showed no issues, and there wer...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, considering your age and the situation you described, there is a high likelihood that it is caused by nocturnal bruxism and tension-related clenching (during relaxation, the upper and lower teeth do not make direct contact). I recommend consulting an oral surgeon for confi...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain and Mobility: Common Dental Concerns Explained
Potential Toxicity Concerns of Dental Splints: What You Need to Know
The toxicity of occlusal splints? Hello, Doctor. I am currently experiencing issues with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and have been using an occlusal splint for treatment. However, during a previous adjustment of the splint at the hospital, the doctor heated and mold...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The material of the occlusal splint is acrylic resin, which contains toxic organic monomers in its uncured liquid form. However, due to the low concentration and relatively mild toxicity, most individuals can tolerate it. (Modern dentistry has a history of nearly 300 years...[Read More] Potential Toxicity Concerns of Dental Splints: What You Need to Know
TMJ Issues and Orthodontics: Can You Proceed with Braces?
Temporomandibular joint issues and orthodontics? Hello, I recently visited a clinic for a consultation regarding orthodontic treatment. However, the orthodontist mentioned that my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues are causing my bite to vary with each occlusion. They recommend...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consult a medical center that has both "oral surgery" and "orthodontics." It is advisable to receive treatment at the same medical center to facilitate any potential involvement of an oral surgeon during the orthodontic treatment pr...[Read More] TMJ Issues and Orthodontics: Can You Proceed with Braces?
Understanding Nighttime Tooth Pain: Causes and Solutions
Nighttime teeth grinding can cause jaw pain? Hello, Dentist. Yesterday, while staying up late, I suddenly experienced occlusal pain in all my teeth. After a while, it became localized to only the lower right teeth when biting down, and there was no pain when not biting. Occasiona...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. Yes. 2. Possibly. However, I advise against intentionally wiggling your teeth, as you already have a habit of clenching, which puts significant stress on your teeth. Avoid applying unnecessary external force to them. 3. It is recommended to either pay out of pocket or v...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Tooth Pain: Causes and Solutions
Does Staying Up Late Worsen Your TMJ Disorder?
Staying up late and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)? Hello, Doctor: 1. I have issues with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and I tend to get very anxious, which often leads to insomnia and staying up late (even though I wear a bite splint). Will this worsen my TMJ condit...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you are already using an occlusal splint, the deterioration of the joints and teeth should be significantly slowed down. However, it is still advisable to identify the underlying causes of tension and teeth grinding, and to consider treatment with relaxation medications...[Read More] Does Staying Up Late Worsen Your TMJ Disorder?
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?
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Symptoms and Solutions
Temporomandibular joint issues? Hello doctor, sometimes when I wake up, my face feels uncomfortable, but I can't pinpoint the exact area of discomfort. My boyfriend says I grind my teeth while sleeping (not bruxism), and I've noticed a line on both sides of the inside o...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is recommended to take muscle relaxants in conjunction with a hard occlusal splint for treatment, and to conduct long-term follow-up to monitor the condition of the joints and tooth wear. If there is still no improvement, further assistance fr...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Jaw Clicking Sounds: Causes and Solutions for Ear Issues
Hearing a popping or crackling sound in the ear throughout the day? In February of this year, I started wearing foam earplugs every night for over a month due to noise sensitivity. One night, I forgot to wear them and heard a clicking sound (only in the right ear, on the side wit...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If it is confirmed that the issue is related to temporomandibular joint dysfunction and malocclusion, it is recommended that you consult an oral surgeon at a medical center for a solution. Mild interventions may include joint irrigation, PRP injections, or Michigan occlusa...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Clicking Sounds: Causes and Solutions for Ear Issues
Dealing with Pain from Lower Left Molars Scraping Tongue: Solutions and Insights
If the inner edge of the lower left molar is scraping against the base of the tongue and causing pain, what should be done? Hello Dr. Lin, I appreciate your help. I have been experiencing pain for the past two months due to the inner edges of my lower left first and second molars...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. Yes, the edges can become sharp due to wear from years of chewing. 2. Yes, cavities are multifactorial and are not caused "solely" by grinding teeth. 3. Physically, one can use an occlusal splint or a silicone night guard to prevent teeth grinding, while chemi...[Read More] Dealing with Pain from Lower Left Molars Scraping Tongue: Solutions and Insights
Concerns About Replacing Upper Front Teeth: Expert Advice Needed
Issues with dentures for the upper four incisors? As a child, I didn't like brushing my teeth, which led to severe cavities. By middle school, I had a total of four upper front teeth, two on each side, that underwent root canal treatment about 20-23 years ago. A significant ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Because your description is not very clear, and the issues are quite detailed and complex, I suggest that you consult with a dentist who has actually examined your dental condition for clarification. From your description, it seems that you have seen at least three dentist...[Read More] Concerns About Replacing Upper Front Teeth: Expert Advice Needed
Concerns About Contact Between Dental Bite Plate and Iodine
Occlusal splint issues Hello, doctor: I injured the nail on my finger and applied Betadine, then wrapped my finger with breathable tape. However, the next morning while cleaning the occlusal splint, I accidentally forgot and my wrapped finger came into contact with the splint. Al...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. It should not be a problem; even if there is contact, the amount would likely be very small and would be diluted by saliva. 2. It will not happen. This is a response from Dr. Lin Chia-yung of the Dental Department at Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Concerns About Contact Between Dental Bite Plate and Iodine
How to Properly Clean Your Dental Night Guard to Prevent Cavities
Cleaning of occlusal splints? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption. I would like to ask you, I always clean my teeth before wearing my occlusal splint, but in the morning when I clean the splint, I only rinse it with water and occasionally brush it with a soft-bristle t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The occlusal splint is originally a consumable item, and it is recommended to replace it every year. The occurrence of dental caries is due to multiple contributing factors; it is not solely because the occlusal splint is unclean that cavities develop. Sincerely, Lin Chia-...[Read More] How to Properly Clean Your Dental Night Guard to Prevent Cavities
Understanding TMJ Disorders: Treatment Options Before Orthodontics
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Hello Doctor, I have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder with audible sounds, and I can only fit three fingers in my mouth. This has been an issue for over ten years, starting after a cold during college. I have a need for orth...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang, Hello! Essentially, any movement during an X-ray can affect the clarity of the image, which in turn can impact the diagnosis. It is important to ensure the stability of the temporomandibular joint before proceeding with any corrections. Wishing you all the best! ...[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders: Treatment Options Before Orthodontics
How to Properly Clean Your Occlusal Splint: Tips and Guidelines
Cleaning issues with occlusal splints? I have researched a lot and asked the doctor during my follow-up visit, but I'm still unclear about how to clean my occlusal splint. I now know that I shouldn't use toothpaste because it can wear down the splint. I need to use a so...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Li Qiuchiu: Theoretically, using denture cleaning tablets to soak dentures or occlusal splints daily can achieve a cleaning effect, but it may incur higher costs for the cleaning tablets. Therefore, if you regularly remove your dentures and occlusal splints after meals to c...[Read More] How to Properly Clean Your Occlusal Splint: Tips and Guidelines
Addressing Facial Asymmetry: TMJ Issues and Treatment Options
The right side of the face has become wider and distorted? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) occlusion issues. I've noticed that my facial shape has changed, with the right zygomatic bone protruding outward. Should I consider osteo...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Miss Chen, It is best to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Take care! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dental Director[Read More] Addressing Facial Asymmetry: TMJ Issues and Treatment Options
Dealing with Pain from Lower Dental Splint: What to Do Next?
Wearing an occlusal splint can cause pain in the lower anterior teeth? I have never worn an occlusal splint before because I had root canal treatment on my upper four front teeth twenty years ago and did not get fixed braces. Therefore, my dentist made the splint for my lower tee...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Miss Li Qiuchiu, The discomfort caused by the occlusal splint may be due to issues with the periodontal tissues or the nerves of the teeth themselves. It is recommended that you return for a detailed examination and treatment. Sincerely, Director Zeng Guanghui, Departm...[Read More] Dealing with Pain from Lower Dental Splint: What to Do Next?
Impacts of Loose Occlusal Splints on Joint Disc Displacement Treatment
Disc displacement, occlusal splint? Hello: I underwent treatment with an occlusal splint at a major hospital due to a displaced articular disc. Recently, while getting dental work done at a small clinic, the dentist mentioned that the occlusal splint was a bit loose and might nee...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin, Hello! The occlusal splint treatment for the disc displacement issue has shown excellent results. A looser fit does not pose a problem for the treatment; however, patients often feel concerned that it might fall out. The adjustment involves adding resin to enhance...[Read More] Impacts of Loose Occlusal Splints on Joint Disc Displacement Treatment
Unconscious Teeth Clenching: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Unconscious clenching of the jaw? This wasn't an issue before, possibly due to orthodontic treatment. Now, I find myself unconsciously clenching my teeth, especially on the right side, and the molars in the back are starting to hurt. Are there any methods to improve this pro...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Student Zhang, Hello! You may first consult with your previous dentist regarding the possibility of occlusal adjustment or the fabrication of an occlusal splint. Take care and wishing you all the best! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry[Read More] Unconscious Teeth Clenching: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Managing Dental Issues: Prioritizing Treatment for Oral Health Concerns
Oral issues Doctor, may I ask in what order I should address my oral condition? For the past six months, the two lower left teeth have been intermittently itchy and slightly painful. In the last two months, the two upper left teeth have also started to experience occasional mild ...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Dear Ms. Li Qiuqiu, Regarding your inquiries, please find the responses below: 1. Trust the recommendations of the attending physician regarding the treatment plan. 2. Your oral issues are complex and cannot be resolved in a short period. 3. It is advisable to visit a medical c...[Read More] Managing Dental Issues: Prioritizing Treatment for Oral Health Concerns
Why Do I Bite My Cheek While Sleeping? Causes and Solutions
Biting the inner lining of the mouth during sleep? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing sudden episodes of biting the inside of my mouth while lying flat in my sleep, which wakes me up in pain. This has happened several consecutive mornings just before waking up. Coul...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the nighttime teeth grinding issue is solely caused by emotional tension, a combination of an occlusal splint and muscle relaxants can be used for treatment. If there is a condition of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, it is recommended to consult a neurologist for ...[Read More] Why Do I Bite My Cheek While Sleeping? Causes and Solutions