Common Dental Concerns: Understanding Tooth Cracks and Sensitivity
Inquiry for clarification? Hello Dr. Tseng, I have a few questions I would like to ask you: Q1. I have noticed a small gap on the occlusal surface of my lower left first molar. I'm not sure if it is a fracture or if it has always been like that. There are no symptoms, but...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Kris: 1. Unless the cavity is very deep, maintaining good oral hygiene is usually sufficient. 2. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further diagnosis. 3. If a tooth has cracked but the damage is limited to the enamel, there are generally no symptoms; just monito...[Read More] Common Dental Concerns: Understanding Tooth Cracks and Sensitivity
Traditional vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Method Best Expands Narrow Arches?
During traditional or Invisalign orthodontic treatment, not only do the teeth move, but the alveolar bone also shifts as well? Doctor: Hello! I am 22 years old. Currently, my upper dental arch is relatively narrow, and I have a malocclusion with my upper right central incisor and...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Since a lateral cephalometric image is needed to calculate the space ratio of the teeth/arch, it is recommended to consult with a physician who can provide an in-person examination. If there are concerns about the original physician, you can bring the existing images and m...[Read More] Traditional vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Method Best Expands Narrow Arches?
Understanding Dental Crown Issues: Expert Answers to Common Concerns
Braces issues Hello Doctor: Over a year ago, I had issues with the metal crowns on two of my central incisors and the left lateral incisor bridge, which had black margins at the gums. I went to the clinic to have them remade. The right central incisor had not been crowned since I...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Since the current issue is only the fracture of the right central incisor, it is recommended to focus on reconstructing that tooth (simplifying the problem makes it easier to achieve the goal). We can see if it is possible to reattach the post and crown; if not, I suggest ...[Read More] Understanding Dental Crown Issues: Expert Answers to Common Concerns
Understanding Tooth Pain and Gum Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Toothache, dental issues, and swollen gums? I had pain in my teeth recently, specifically in the lower right row. My wisdom tooth has a cavity that looks black. After a period of no pain, one day I felt pain between the third and fourth teeth from the right when biting down on so...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you feel that your occlusion is higher after the completion of treatment, it is recommended to return for an adjustment by your dentist. As for the chest tightness, you should consult an internist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain and Gum Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Will Wearing a Bite Splint Misalign My Perfectly Straight Teeth?
Will wearing an occlusal splint cause originally aligned teeth to become misaligned? Hello, doctor. I have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issue, and my doctor recommended wearing an occlusal splint for correction. My teeth are quite well-aligned; will wearing the splint change m...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If worn only at night, it will not cause permanent displacement of the teeth, as the occlusal splint itself does not continuously and actively exert force on the teeth and alveolar bone.[Read More] Will Wearing a Bite Splint Misalign My Perfectly Straight Teeth?
Do You Need Orthodontics After TMJ Surgery?
Temporomandibular joint reduction surgery If I underwent orthodontic treatment 3.4 years ago and am now experiencing issues with my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (with milder symptoms at the time), will I need to undergo orthodontic treatment again after undergoing TMJ reduction ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to inform the physician before surgery about any previous orthodontic treatment. If necessary, minor adjustments to the position of the teeth may still be performed postoperatively. You may ask the oral surgeon whether a referral to the orthodontist is ne...[Read More] Do You Need Orthodontics After TMJ Surgery?
Understanding Central Cusp Deformity: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Questions regarding malformed central incisors? Dear Dr. Tseng, Hello. I have several rounded protrusions on the buccal surfaces of my upper right first and second premolars. Since these protrusions are not located in the center of the teeth, I have always thought they were norm...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Kris: 1. The dentist can confirm the diagnosis through visual examination or X-rays. 2. The rounded protrusions on the occlusal surface of the premolars are usually caused by developmental anomalies of the teeth, resulting in dental hyperplasia. 3. If there is an uneven...[Read More] Understanding Central Cusp Deformity: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Radiation Exposure from Dental Cone Beam CT Scans
What could be the radiation dose from a dental computed tomography (CT) scan in my case? Hello Dr. Lin, I am currently evaluating orthodontic treatment (the doctor mentioned that it will involve imaging of the temporomandibular joint), but I need to undergo a dental cone beam com...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there is a need to perform orthognathic surgery in conjunction with oral surgery, or to undergo a procedure that involves the advancement of the maxilla, a comprehensive computed tomography (CT) scan will be required. If there are significant concerns regarding radiatio...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure from Dental Cone Beam CT Scans
Understanding Jaw Displacement: Causes and Treatment Options
Perceived jaw displacement? Hello Dr. Lin, my wife has recently been experiencing pain when she sleeps with her head tilted to the left, as she feels her jaw shifts to the left and causes pain that wakes her up. Could this indicate a problem with her temporomandibular joint (TMJ)...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to clarify the timing of the pain (how long has it been occurring? Is the pain constant or intermittent?), and the cause (have there been any accidents, falls, etc.? Or have you recently undergone dental treatment?). Is Zhongshan Hospital a dental facility?...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Displacement: Causes and Treatment Options
Fixing Issues with Porcelain Crowns: Addressing Bite and Speech Problems
I had four all-ceramic crowns placed on my front teeth (2/2), but two of them do not make contact with the lower teeth, causing air to escape while speaking? A few months ago, I developed cracks in my front teeth, and I accidentally bit down on a metal chopstick, resulting in dam...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Before it is permanently bonded, there is still an opportunity to make adjustments to the shape and color. It is recommended to discuss this with the original dentist, as it may have been intentionally designed to avoid occlusion, thereby reducing the risk of fracturing ag...[Read More] Fixing Issues with Porcelain Crowns: Addressing Bite and Speech Problems
Root Canal Treatment vs. Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know
Issues related to root canal treatment and wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor: I have been struggling with discomfort in my dental occlusion recently. I first visited a dentist who suggested that it might be a periodontal issue. I took two courses of antibiotics (three days ea...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Tooth extraction and root canal treatment are both irreversible invasive procedures. It is advisable to first identify the underlying cause before proceeding. If pain can be managed with medication, it is best to control it with drugs initially. If you prefer to avoid extr...[Read More] Root Canal Treatment vs. Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know
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 Gum Hyperkeratosis: Risks and Preventive Measures
I'm sorry, but I cannot provide a response without the specific content or context of question Hello Dr. Tseng: I apologize for bothering you again with my questions. Regarding your response to the inquiry in "<a href='https://adoctor.tw/article/204354'>...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Kris, Thank you for reaching out again for consultation. Since I have not had the opportunity to examine you in person, I still recommend discussing your concerns during your regular follow-up appointments with your physician. This will allow for more appropriate manag...[Read More] Understanding Gum Hyperkeratosis: Risks and Preventive Measures
Understanding Gum Bumps: Are They Scars from Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Follow-up Inquiry #204291 Dear Dr. Tseng, Thank you for your response to the inquiry in "<a href='https://adoctor.tw/article/204291'>#204291</a>." Regarding your reply about the possibility of residual roots left after wisdom tooth extraction bein...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Kris: 1. It is possible that the gum keratinization scar is a result of the healing process after tooth extraction. 2. Prolonged occlusal friction from chewing food may increase the degree of keratinization and could potentially lead to malignant changes. It is recommen...[Read More] Understanding Gum Bumps: Are They Scars from Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Fixed Dentures Dislodged: Should You Reposition Them for Better Fit?
The fixed dental prosthesis has come loose, and reattaching it feels like it is flipped sideways compared to its original position? If a patient has had their fixed dentures dislodged due to eating overly sticky food and subsequently had them reattached by a dentist, but is exper...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Bystander A: Generally, if the appliance is worn in the wrong direction, it is unlikely to fit completely. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment to have the dentist check it again. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, N...[Read More] Fixed Dentures Dislodged: Should You Reposition Them for Better Fit?
Understanding the Impact of Missing Upper Second Molar on Dental Health
Second molar issues Hello Doctor: The first and second molars on the lower left side of my mouth were treated with a dental bridge many years ago. Currently, the upper second molar cannot be preserved, and the dentist at the clinic mentioned that if I do not plan for an implant (...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: (1) As you mentioned, under normal circumstances, there should not be any significant impact in the short to medium term. (2) We may need to wait for any issues or conditions related to the dental bridge in the future before we can propose solutions and provide a reasonabl...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Missing Upper Second Molar on Dental Health
Can I Keep My Existing Dental Crown After Orthodontic Treatment?
Can the original dental crown be reattached after temporary braces are placed? Six years ago, I underwent root canal treatment due to a cavity, resulting in a metal-ceramic crown. Recently, I am considering orthodontic treatment. Question 1: If I use Invisalign, can I keep the ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Whether it's traditional braces or Invisalign, even after completely removing the old metal ceramic crowns, about 80% of patients still want to get new aligners afterward. This is because the alignment and occlusion of the teeth have changed compared to the original t...[Read More] Can I Keep My Existing Dental Crown After Orthodontic Treatment?
Understanding Tooth Pain: Insights on Wisdom Teeth and Root Canal Issues
The first molar next to the lower left wisdom tooth? Hello Doctor: The first molar next to the lower left wisdom tooth underwent root canal treatment a long time ago, but now there is intense pain when pressing on the gums with my finger, and the molar is also loose (the tooth st...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Liu, 1. The roots of the lower left molar are shorter than those of the anterior teeth. If root canal treatment fails, an apicoectomy may be necessary. After the surgery, removing a portion of the root tip can further shorten the already short roots of the molar, which ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: Insights on Wisdom Teeth and Root Canal Issues
Understanding Tooth Decay, Grinding, and Cracked Teeth Issues
Cavities, bruxism, and tooth fractures? Hello, doctor. I was breastfed until I was two and a half years old. At three, I discovered cavities in my primary teeth that required root canal treatment, but I did not address those teeth because they were going to fall out. As I grew ol...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to find a trusted physician and undergo long-term treatment at that location. Many of the questions you raised require prior and subsequent X-rays or objective data from follow-up observations to determine whether filling is necessary, whether to proceed ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay, Grinding, and Cracked Teeth Issues
Pain When Pressing on Tooth After Filling: What You Need to Know
Pain upon pressure after filling a cavity between the teeth? Hello Dr. Lin! In mid-August, after moving, I found a new dentist, Dr. A, near my new home for a routine teeth cleaning. During the visit, she discovered a cavity in the interproximal area of my lower right second molar...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. To determine if cavities have been completely cleaned, X-rays can be taken as evidence. 2. If there are indeed residual caries, the tooth itself has some resistance (the dental pulp's vitality will activate immune mechanisms). 3. It is advisable to seek treatment f...[Read More] Pain When Pressing on Tooth After Filling: What You Need to Know