Understanding Oral Sores: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Oral issues Hello Doctor, I have recurrent blisters on both sides of my mouth near the throat area. They usually burst within a day or I accidentally break them. They are not painful or itchy; I can only feel their presence when my tongue touches them. I used to have a betel nut ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Long-term betel nut consumption may lead to oral mucosal fibrosis, resulting in a loss of elasticity or increased fragility of the oral mucosa, making it susceptible to frictional damage. If blisters repeatedly form and rupture, it could also be indicative of an autoimmune issue ...[Read More] Understanding Oral Sores: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Wisdom Teeth Issues: Extraction, Pain, and Alignment Concerns
Issues related to wisdom teeth? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for bothering you, but I have a few questions regarding my teeth. Recently, I had my upper left wisdom tooth extracted, and afterward, while brushing my teeth, I noticed a slightly protruding area that I could feel with m...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. If you are concerned about incomplete extraction, you can take another X-ray for confirmation. The sharp part may indeed be the alveolar bone crest from the extraction site. 2. Inflammation or infection of the soft and hard tissues in the oral cavity typically does not ...[Read More] Understanding Wisdom Teeth Issues: Extraction, Pain, and Alignment Concerns
Understanding Gum Issues: Painful Bump on Gums and What to Do
Gum issues A sudden growth of a lump in the middle of the gums that is painful to touch may indicate inflammation. It is important to monitor the symptoms and consider the following: 1. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. 2. Rinse your mouth with warm...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Mr. Kai: Hello, regarding your inquiry, due to the current pandemic, you can first schedule a video consultation to obtain your medication. This will allow you to postpone an in-person visit. Once the pandemic stabilizes, you can then visit the outpatient clinic or seek treatment...[Read More] Understanding Gum Issues: Painful Bump on Gums and What to Do
Managing TMJ Pain and Dental Issues: Tips for Relief Before Your Appointment
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) About a month ago, I experienced pain from a cavity in my upper left tooth, and I underwent root canal treatment. Approximately twelve days ago, while brushing my teeth, my jaw made a popping sound and was very painful, but I didn't pay much att...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you are very concerned about temporomandibular joint dislocation or malposition, or even a fracture of the mandible, it is advisable to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or an orthopedic specialist for an examination and to obtain imaging confirmation. Dental cl...[Read More] Managing TMJ Pain and Dental Issues: Tips for Relief Before Your Appointment
Is Tooth Extraction Necessary After Failed Root Canal Treatment?
It seems that the second root canal treatment has failed. Should I consider tooth extraction? I would like to ask about my upper right second molar, which has undergone root canal treatment twice. The dentist filled it with resin or a filling material after the root canal, but I ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there is a risk of infection in that tooth, which could potentially lead to sinusitis, it is advisable to have it extracted. If the tooth no longer has any functional occlusion and you are facing financial difficulties, you may consider postponing the placement of dentu...[Read More] Is Tooth Extraction Necessary After Failed Root Canal Treatment?
Should You Remove a New Wisdom Tooth Causing Oral Discomfort?
Should I have my newly erupted wisdom tooth removed if it is scraping against my oral cavity? Hello, Doctor: I recently discovered a new wisdom tooth growing on the upper left side. Previously, I had an X-ray taken by a dentist, which showed that the wisdom tooth was vertical. Ho...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Wisdom teeth typically fully erupt and position themselves after the age of 20. If they grow in a tilted manner, it is likely due to insufficient space for eruption or an incorrect growth angle, which can cause them to press against the second molars or irritate the inner gum tis...[Read More] Should You Remove a New Wisdom Tooth Causing Oral Discomfort?
Managing Oral Sores While Wearing Retainers: A Dental Dilemma
The trade-off of wearing retainers with oral ulcers? Given the recent ulceration near the floor of the mouth, and considering that I have undergone orthodontic treatment, I need to wear a removable retainer every night. However, the pink part of the retainer (the non-wire portion...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If a retainer causes a hole in the mouth, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible for adjustments. This helps prevent repeated holes from leading to infections in the wound or adverse changes in the oral mucosa. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Ho...[Read More] Managing Oral Sores While Wearing Retainers: A Dental Dilemma
Understanding Bad Odor Between Teeth: Causes and Solutions
Bad odor between teeth? On May 25th, I visited the dentist because I had a cavity in the upper right third molar, which was causing discomfort as food would get stuck and touch the gums while eating. The dentist diagnosed me with a cavity in the third molar and performed a fillin...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If cavities have been filled, and proper dental flossing and mouthwash are being used, but there is still bad breath, it is important to consider other potential issues beyond the oral cavity, such as post-nasal drip or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other digestive s...[Read More] Understanding Bad Odor Between Teeth: Causes and Solutions
Can Gum Wounds Heal When in Contact with Dental Resin?
Will a gum wound not heal if it is directly in contact with the filling resin? Hello Dr. Lin, I have three questions I would like to ask you. First, I apologize for taking your time and thank you for your help. Please take a look at this photo: https://i.imgur.com/zS8TYRu.jpg. Th...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: There is no bonding strength between the gums and the resin, so they will quickly lose adhesion to each other. (The resin monomer used for dental fillings is not the same as cyanoacrylate glue; there is a significant difference between the two.) The dental resins available...[Read More] Can Gum Wounds Heal When in Contact with Dental Resin?
Understanding Gum Numbness After Dental Treatment: Causes and Remedies
Numbness of the gums? Several years ago, I had a tooth that underwent root canal treatment, and recently it suddenly started to swell and become inflamed. I went to see a dentist, who applied a paste (which contained small fragments resembling orange peel fibers) to that tooth. H...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may suddenly swell and become inflamed, which could be due to periodontal inflammation or a possible crack in the tooth itself. Although applying a propolis-like ointment has reduced the swelling, it is still advisable to monitor fo...[Read More] Understanding Gum Numbness After Dental Treatment: Causes and Remedies
How Long Can You Wait to Remove Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Inquiry about the timeline for wisdom tooth suture removal? Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for bothering you again. After having my two horizontal wisdom teeth extracted on May 13, I was unable to return to the hospital for suture removal due to the pandemic. The sutures for the upp...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If absorbable sutures are used, it is recommended to leave them for about 3 months. For regular silk or nylon sutures, it is best to remove them in about a month. If not addressed, there may be a risk of chronic inflammation, and the sutures will continue to be absorbed by...[Read More] How Long Can You Wait to Remove Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Can You Stop Antibiotics for Gingivitis Before It's Fully Healed?
Gingivitis has not fully resolved, but the doctor recommends stopping the antibiotics? Hello Dr. Lin, three weeks ago I visited a doctor due to gingivitis in my lower right second molar and have been taking antibiotics (amoxicillin 500mg, three times a day) until yesterday. Since...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If your physician has advised you to stop taking antibiotics, it is recommended that you refrain from using them. If you are concerned about your immune system and the risk of infections, it is advisable to consult with a physician in internal medicine, infectious diseases...[Read More] Can You Stop Antibiotics for Gingivitis Before It's Fully Healed?
White Bumps in Mouth and Cheek Pain: Causes and Treatments
White lesions in the oral cavity and cheek pain? This week, I have been feeling a dull, aching sensation on the inner wall of my right cheek, which makes me want to keep my mouth open. One day, when I opened my mouth and shone a light, I noticed a white area (see the image linked...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Your photo appears to contain adult content, so it cannot be opened online. If you are concerned about oral cancer, it is recommended that you go to a hospital for a biopsy. Other conservative treatment options for oral leukoplakia or lesions include observation or topical...[Read More] White Bumps in Mouth and Cheek Pain: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Dental Crowns for Kids: When to Seek Further Treatment
Pediatric dental crown Hello, my four-year-old child had a cavity in the second tooth on the upper left that reached the nerve, and a stainless steel crown was placed. After two to three days, there was redness and swelling. Concerned about inadequate cleaning, we increased oral ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If proper hygiene is maintained and the child does not have any other immune or systemic diseases, but the gums continue to be inflamed and bleed for more than a month, it may be advisable to remove the primary tooth crown. It is recommended to return to the original clini...[Read More] Understanding Dental Crowns for Kids: When to Seek Further Treatment
Sudden Black Spots Inside Lips and Bleeding Gums: Causes and Solutions
Sudden appearance of black spots on the inner lip accompanied by gum bleeding? Recently, I've been staying up late, usually going to sleep around 3 to 4 AM. I've suddenly noticed gum bleeding and small black spots on the inner side of my lips (the black spots are only v...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It may be due to gingivitis and the formation of blisters on the inner mucosa of the lips. It is recommended to restore normal routines and maintain good oral hygiene. If symptoms do not improve, consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Sudden Black Spots Inside Lips and Bleeding Gums: Causes and Solutions
White Spots and Painful Bumps on the Back of the Tongue: What to Know
There are white spots and slight discomfort on the back of the tongue's papillae? Hello Doctor, I have recently experienced a sudden tingling sensation in my mouth. Upon looking in the mirror, I noticed that there are lesions on the back of my tongue, both on the midline and...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The image appears to show mild inflammation of the papillary structures on the lingual frenulum. The cause of the inflammation may be due to smoking, betel nut use, or other physical or chemical irritants, or it could simply be a viral infection. It is recommended that you...[Read More] White Spots and Painful Bumps on the Back of the Tongue: What to Know
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
Understanding Oral Blisters: Causes and When to See a Dentist
Small blisters in the posterior oral cavity? Hello doctor, I have a small blister located about 2 cm behind the last molar on the right side of my mouth (in a position that stretches when I open my mouth). There is only one blister, approximately 2 mm in size, and it is not very ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It may not necessarily be an issue of immunity; it could also be caused by irritation from devices such as braces or dentures. It is advisable to seek a medical examination. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfar...[Read More] Understanding Oral Blisters: Causes and When to See a Dentist
Understanding Old Filling Materials Exiting Root Canal Openings
Old filling material protruding from the root canal opening? Dear Dr. Lin, Last July, I developed a pus-filled abscess on my upper left canine. An X-ray revealed that the tooth root was resorbed and had an opening. I began treatment in late October, and after several attempts, t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: In your case, the abscess has disappeared, indicating that the treatment has been successful in the short term. As for the material that has protruded from the root canal, it could be the filling material, medication placed inside, or a broken instrument. You should discus...[Read More] Understanding Old Filling Materials Exiting Root Canal Openings
Understanding Swelling and Pain Behind Front Teeth with Braces
Swelling and pain behind the front teeth? Hello Doctor, I have braces, and my dentist attached two tooth-like structures behind my front teeth to correct my bite. I later noticed that sometimes when I clean between my teeth with an interdental brush, there is bleeding, and near t...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
During the orthodontic process, the elevation of dental materials is primarily for the needs of tooth alignment. However, if oral hygiene is not properly maintained, inflammation and abscess formation can occur in the interproximal areas. If oral hygiene has been adequately pract...[Read More] Understanding Swelling and Pain Behind Front Teeth with Braces