Do Misaligned Canines Lead to Cavities? Exploring Dental Bridge Options
If the canine teeth are misaligned and there is a risk of cavities, is it necessary to get a dental bridge? Hello Dr. Tseng: I would like to ask about my situation: I have limited space between my canine teeth, which causes them to be pushed upwards, resulting in misalignment of ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. If the alignment of the canine teeth on both sides is severely irregular, it is recommended to consider orthodontic treatment to straighten the teeth, which will facilitate oral hygiene and cleaning between the teeth. If the misalignment is mild and you feel that orthodontic t...[Read More] Do Misaligned Canines Lead to Cavities? Exploring Dental Bridge Options
Understanding Tongue Pain: Is It Related to Wisdom Teeth Issues?
Issues with the tongue? Can wisdom teeth scrape against the back of the throat near the base of the tongue? I have been experiencing tongue pain for over two years, which comes and goes. Initially, the pain was in multiple areas and would shift locations, but now it is localized ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have already been examined by three specialists, it is advisable to follow their recommendations and not to worry too much. Additionally, wisdom teeth can indeed cause irritation to the base of the tongue. If you are considering extraction, you may discuss the pros ...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Pain: Is It Related to Wisdom Teeth Issues?
Understanding White Gums: Is It Gingivitis or Oral Leukoplakia?
A single tooth surrounded by a ring of white tissue around the gums? Hello, Doctor. A few days ago, I noticed a white ring around the gums of my lower right last tooth, and I experienced bleeding while brushing my teeth. Concerned that it might be oral leukoplakia, I went to see ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If there is a white ring around the gums, it may be due to excessive keratinization of the gingival mucosa, but there could be other conditions as well. It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hosp...[Read More] Understanding White Gums: Is It Gingivitis or Oral Leukoplakia?
Understanding Recurrent Blisters on the Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Tongue issues? Hello Dr. Lin, I occasionally get blisters near the tip of my tongue. Although the blisters disappear within 2 to 3 days, they always occur in the same spot. Last month, I noticed a slightly raised bump in the area where the blisters frequently appear. The color is...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the oral mucosa (including the tongue) has been injured, vascular proliferation may occur, making it more susceptible to repeated injuries and bleeding. It is recommended to chew slowly and avoid excessively cold, hot, or irritating foods. If there are still concerns ab...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Blisters on the Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Gum Bleeding and Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Gum bleeding and gum swelling? Hello, doctor. For the past month or so, I have been suffering from gum inflammation and bleeding. My gums are slightly swollen on both the inner and outer sides, and I experience bleeding almost every time I brush my teeth or when my gums are press...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If oral hygiene has been properly maintained and the interdental areas are thoroughly cleaned, yet there is still bleeding from the gums, it is advisable to check for any autoimmune issues and to assess whether long-term irregular lifestyle habits may be affecting the immune syst...[Read More] Understanding Gum Bleeding and Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Unexplained Tooth Sensitivity: Possible Causes and Solutions
The cause of tooth sensitivity cannot be determined? Hello Doctor, I have discomfort in my lower left first molar (tooth #36) that sometimes feels acidic and dull (when there is no discomfort, it feels normal). However, the timing and circumstances are not very consistent; someti...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The main causes of bodily pain are twofold: injury to tissues or organs, or disruption in nerve signal transmission. If you believe the discomfort is caused by injury to the teeth or surrounding tissues, it is recommended that you return to a medical center for a 3D X-ray ...[Read More] Unexplained Tooth Sensitivity: Possible Causes and Solutions
Persistent Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Understanding Alveolar Osteitis
It has been nearly two months since my wisdom tooth extraction, and it still hasn't healed? Hello, doctor. After having my upper right wisdom tooth extracted on February 18, everything seemed normal during the recovery. I had the stitches removed a week later, but I experien...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have been seen at two different clinics with differing diagnoses, it is recommended to visit a medical center's oral and maxillofacial surgery department for a facial cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan to confirm if there are any other issues. If the gum...[Read More] Persistent Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Understanding Alveolar Osteitis
Understanding the Impact of Metal-Ceramic Crowns on Oral Health
Metal-ceramic crowns Thank you, doctor. I have a couple of questions: 1. I had a fixed metal-ceramic crown (mainly nickel-chromium) placed around 2013, and one of them has unfortunately chipped, exposing the metal underneath. Will this situation have any adverse effects? Can I ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. There will not be any serious adverse effects. It is possible, but do not apply too much pressure. It is acceptable. 2. There is no correlation, unless there are many different types of metals directly exposed in the mouth, which may lead to a noticeable reaction due to...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Metal-Ceramic Crowns on Oral Health
Persistent Gum Bump: Causes and Effective Treatment Options
Gum abscess If you have had a gum abscess in the same location for over a year and have seen a doctor multiple times, with the abscess recurring after treatment, it is important to seek further evaluation from a dental specialist, such as an oral surgeon or periodontist. It is ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If you repeatedly develop dental abscesses in the same area, it is advisable to consult a dentist for an examination to determine if there is nerve necrosis or periodontal disease affecting that tooth. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Persistent Gum Bump: Causes and Effective Treatment Options
Correction of Rating: Apologies for the Mistaken One-Star Review
Correction of scoring? Thank you, Dr. Lin, for your detailed response; I gained a lot from it. I accidentally pressed one star instead of the five stars I intended to give while rating. I have already contacted the Ministry of Health and Welfare to request a correction. I apologi...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Thank you for your affirmation. Additionally, as we age, our teeth can become sharper, and the oral mucosa becomes thinner and more fragile, making it more susceptible to injury. Therefore, please chew slowly and thoroughly, and consider rinsing with warm water to suppleme...[Read More] Correction of Rating: Apologies for the Mistaken One-Star Review
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
Persistent Gum Pain: When Teeth Edge Into Gums and No Relief
The gums are constantly being irritated by the edges of the teeth? There is a gap between my gums and teeth that I can slightly push open with my tongue, but soon the teeth return to their original position, causing the edges of the teeth to press against the gums. This is not vi...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have already seen two doctors and there are no abnormalities, it is advisable to shift your focus and not dwell on dental issues anymore. If you are still very concerned, please visit a nearby medical center and have an oral surgeon perform a facial CT scan for conf...[Read More] Persistent Gum Pain: When Teeth Edge Into Gums and No Relief
Persistent Pain After Tooth Extraction: Is It Just Inflammation?
The tooth adjacent to the wisdom tooth is inflamed, and after undergoing a root canal treatment (which is not yet completed), the pain remains unbearable? On the lower right side of my cheek, the tooth next to my wisdom tooth has been in increasing pain since I had the wisdom too...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Hello Ms. Nan: Based on the symptoms you described, I would recommend that you complete the root canal treatment and maintain good oral hygiene. After that, we can reassess whether the pain has improved to facilitate further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Persistent Pain After Tooth Extraction: Is It Just Inflammation?
Understanding Periodontal Treatment: Addressing Pain and Confusion After Dental Procedures
Periodontal disease treatment Hello, Dr. Tseng. I had an inlay/onlay/overlay placed a week ago, and during my follow-up visit today, I mentioned that the gums around my lower right first molar hurt when touched by my fingertip (accidentally while using dental floss). However, the...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
The initial treatment for periodontal disease begins with X-ray examinations to assess the condition of the alveolar bone around the teeth. If periodontal disease or gingivitis is diagnosed, the first step is to perform scaling and provide oral hygiene education. After a period o...[Read More] Understanding Periodontal Treatment: Addressing Pain and Confusion After Dental Procedures
Dealing with Dental Filling Loss: Tips for Students to Prevent Cavities
Filling dislodgement? A couple of years ago, I had a cavity filled in the side of one of my upper left molars. I have maintained good oral hygiene, but recently the filling seems to have come loose, causing sensitivity when I drink cold water or beverages. As a student, it's...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Please ensure cleanliness and avoid food accumulation in the cavity. If there is sensitivity, you may apply desensitizing toothpaste locally to the affected area. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Dealing with Dental Filling Loss: Tips for Students to Prevent Cavities
Understanding Oral Ulcers and Gum Swelling: Causes and Concerns
Oral ulcer with swollen gums? Hello, doctor. Let me clarify my condition. I had a cold with fever and sore throat for the past four days, and my appetite decreased. Just as I was recovering from the cold, I developed four white sores in my mouth. The tissue around my teeth looks ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is normal for oral mucosal lesions to occur when the immune system is weak. It is recommended that you continue to observe this condition with your physician for about a month, and do not panic excessively. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung...[Read More] Understanding Oral Ulcers and Gum Swelling: Causes and Concerns
How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Take and What to Expect?
If your wisdom tooth is impacted horizontally and you need to go to the hospital for treatment, the procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. However, the total time you spend at the hospital may be longer due to pre-operative evaluations and post-operative recovery,...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. If your wisdom tooth is only partially erupted and is partially covered by bone or gum tissue, that area can easily trap debris, leading to bacterial infection. Therefore, the dentist recommends that you have the wisdom tooth extracted. If the wisdom tooth is completely...[Read More] How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Take and What to Expect?
Managing Multiple Missing Front Teeth: Options and Considerations
Four upper front teeth are missing at once? I am currently preparing for a second root canal treatment, as the fillings from many years ago are extensive, and I am concerned about the viability of my teeth. If I have two missing front teeth on both the left and right sides of my ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. You have already prepared for two root canal treatments, so please maintain confidence and optimism for a successful outcome. If it unfortunately fails and extraction becomes necessary, we will need to assess the healing condition of the site before discussing treatment...[Read More] Managing Multiple Missing Front Teeth: Options and Considerations
Do Hard Foods Strengthen Teeth and Prevent Tooth Loss?
Does chewing hard foods help strengthen teeth? There is a common belief that chewing hard foods can help strengthen teeth and prevent tooth loss in older age. Is there any evidence to support this?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Exercising normal chewing function can help train the teeth, but it is still important to maintain good oral hygiene. For elderly individuals, as the periodontal tissues gradually degenerate, it is not recommended for them to consume overly hard foods. - Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Depa...[Read More] Do Hard Foods Strengthen Teeth and Prevent Tooth Loss?
Understanding Non-Painful Oral Mucosal Protrusions: Causes and Solutions
There is a linear protrusion on the left side of the oral mucosa? Recently, I noticed a long protrusion on the left side of my cheek inside my mouth, extending from the molars to the back. It is not painful. What could this be? Will it go away on its own? Thank you.
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Generally, it is an inflammatory response of the oral mucosa, which may be caused by emotional or psychological stress leading to an imbalance in the immune system. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nanto...[Read More] Understanding Non-Painful Oral Mucosal Protrusions: Causes and Solutions