Is My Ear Pain a Sign of TMJ Disorder? What to Do Next
I am not sure if it is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder)? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing pain in my right ear lately, feeling stuffy. Occasionally, I also have some tinnitus. I visited an otolaryngologist twice, but they couldn't find the cause. After r...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Bai, if you experience a small popping sound when opening your mouth and some discomfort when biting down, it may be a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issue. It is recommended to seek further evaluation at a dental or oral surgery department in a major hospital. Thank you...[Read More] Is My Ear Pain a Sign of TMJ Disorder? What to Do Next
Why Can't My Daughter Get a Crown After Root Canal Treatment?
A fifth-grade girl is facing issues with a single dental crown? My daughter, who is in fifth grade, just completed root canal treatment on her second molar (which is a permanent tooth) today. However, the dentist advised against making a crown immediately, stating that her tooth ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, Xiao J. As a fifth-grade student, you are still in the growth and development stage, and your teeth and gums have not fully matured. Clinically, the dental crowns are low, and there is still a chance for growth in the future, which would allow the crowns to become taller a...[Read More] Why Can't My Daughter Get a Crown After Root Canal Treatment?
Understanding Dental Abscess: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Dental cyst (abscess) Hello Doctor, I often develop a pus-filled bump on the gums of my lower left molar. Sometimes it appears after eating, and it usually resolves on its own after a day or two. I visited a clinic where the doctor confirmed the issue and took X-rays, but no abno...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsieh, the recurrent formation of pus-filled lesions on your gums may indicate that there is possible bone resorption around the teeth, and even the development of periodontal pockets. This can lead to the accumulation of oral bacteria within the pockets, causing an inf...[Read More] Understanding Dental Abscess: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding White Spots on the Tongue: When to Seek Dental Advice
There are white spots on the side of the tongue? On September 1, I noticed a small white spot on the edge of my tongue that has not disappeared or changed in size since then. It does not hurt or itch. I consulted a dentist at a specialized oral screening clinic, and the dentist b...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The most direct approach is still to recommend performing a biopsy for examination. Thank you![Read More] Understanding White Spots on the Tongue: When to Seek Dental Advice
Post-Extraction Wisdom Tooth Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor, on September 3rd, I had my lower right horizontal wisdom tooth extracted. The doctor mentioned that the tooth was quite large and deep, so the wound would also be significant. After the extraction, I was advised t...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Amy, Hello! I apologize for the larger wound from the wisdom tooth extraction; the stitches may also come loose. However, it's not a problem as long as you maintain good oral hygiene! Take care! Wishing you all the best and a smooth recovery! Sincerely, Dr. Hu...[Read More] Post-Extraction Wisdom Tooth Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Why Your Wisdom Tooth Area Swells Again After Initial Healing
Swelling after wisdom tooth extraction may subside initially but can reoccur later? Hello, I had my wisdom tooth extracted on August 22, 2019, and I had stitches. The stitches were removed a week later, and it took about ten days for the swelling to subside. After the swelling we...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Mr. Wang Cheng, Hello! (Swelling after wisdom tooth extraction has returned.) This may be caused by a higher presence of bacteria in the oral cavity. You can return to your original dentist for further treatment. After tooth extraction, it is essential to maintain proper or...[Read More] Why Your Wisdom Tooth Area Swells Again After Initial Healing
Understanding Gum Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Oral Care Tips
Gum pain issues? Hello Doctor: Recently, I visited the clinic due to gum pain. After examination, the doctor diagnosed that my gum tissue and bone are particularly prominent, causing the gums to thin and become prone to tearing. My gum bone protrudes significantly, almost along t...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Mrs. Li, Hello! As mentioned, when brushing your teeth, be gentle with the two teeth to avoid causing any abrasions. If there are abrasions, do not use toothpaste! (Will it continue to proliferate?) We need to conduct a physical examination to know for sure! Most of the tim...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Oral Care Tips
Comprehensive Guide to Root Canals, Bridges, and Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Root canal treatment, braces, wisdom tooth extraction, and missing teeth issues? Hello Doctor: My questions are a bit complex and lengthy: (1) I have a lower right first molar that underwent root canal treatment a long time ago and has not yet been capped. The X-ray shows a whi...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Miss Yan Yan, Hello! (1) The lower right first molar, which has undergone root canal treatment a long time ago, needs to have the root canal therapy redone before placing a crown to prevent future swelling and pain. (2) The lower left second molar was extracted this Jul...[Read More] Comprehensive Guide to Root Canals, Bridges, and Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Essential Questions About Oral Care Products and Dental Health
Oral hygiene products-related issues? Hello, Doctor. I have recently become aware of the importance of dental hygiene and am looking to purchase new oral care products. While researching online, I came across information suggesting that certain toothpaste ingredients may be harmf...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Anonymous Miss: Hello! 1. If your teeth have turned yellow, it is still necessary to seek professional treatment from a dentist. 2. Mouthwash is effective for superficial gingivitis! Oral health primarily relies on cleanliness. 3. Use a toothbrush and dental floss, starting ...[Read More] Essential Questions About Oral Care Products and Dental Health
Understanding Persistent Oral Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Oral issues? Hello Dr. Tseng, I have been experiencing oral symptoms for six months now. Currently, I still have a burning pain on the left side of my oral mucosa, and there is slight discomfort in the occlusion of my teeth. My tongue also has a mild abnormal taste sensation. Occ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If a CT scan and MRI of the head and neck have been performed and no abnormalities were found in the brain, but there is still a burning pain in the oral mucosa, it may be related to an autoimmune issue. It is recommended to consult an immunologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Oral Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Understanding White Bumps on Your Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Tongue issues? The presence of small white bumps on the surface of the tongue, resembling tiny blisters with some red areas, could indicate a condition known as oral thrush or geographic tongue. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and ap...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It may be caused by inflammation of the mucosa on the dorsum of the tongue; it is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination.[Read More] Understanding White Bumps on Your Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Mouth Sores and Tongue Pain: Causes and Solutions
Mouth ulcers and tongue pain? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have developed a sore inside my lower lip, and later, I noticed that my tongue also started having issues. When I eat, the food touches the surface of my tongue and causes a sharp pain, making it difficult for me to eat pro...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The oral mucosa is a continuous surface, so if there is a lesion on the lips, there may also be a lesion on the tongue. Common causes include vitamin deficiencies or decreased immunity, and it usually resolves within a week. If the lesions persist for a month without impro...[Read More] Understanding Mouth Sores and Tongue Pain: Causes and Solutions
How Soon Can I Treat Cavities After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
[Inquiry] After extracting the lower right impacted wisdom tooth, how long should I wait before treating the teeth on the left side? Hello Doctor: I had my lower right horizontal wisdom tooth extracted, and the wound has been sutured (the extraction was referred to oral surgery b...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Lai Hsiao-Chen, Hello! The treatment for your left-side tooth should be completed in about two weeks. Please take care! Wishing you all the best and a smooth recovery! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry[Read More] How Soon Can I Treat Cavities After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Feeling of Foreign Object in Mouth: Possible Dental Issues Explained
The sensation of a foreign body in the oral cavity? One day after eating, I felt like a grain of rice had entered my nasal cavity (not entirely sure). Now I constantly feel like there is a foreign object in my mouth (on the upper side), but I don't feel it when drinking wate...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
The sensation of a foreign body in the mouth, along with the feeling that food particles have entered the nasal cavity, may indicate a fistula connecting the oral cavity and nasal cavity. It is advisable to consult a dentist or an otolaryngologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Feeling of Foreign Object in Mouth: Possible Dental Issues Explained
Pre-Treatment Steps Before Fitting a Dental Bridge: Key Considerations
Pre-treatment procedures for placing a dental bridge? Due to the original dental bridge becoming loose, I went to the clinic to get a new dental bridge. However, before taking the impression, the doctor placed a temporary bridge. The doctor only dried the supporting teeth on both...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. Regardless of the treatment performed, it is only possible to reduce bacteria in the oral cavity; achieving a sterile environment is impossible, so there will always be bacteria present within the dental bridge, only the quantity varies. 2. Typically, there are steps fo...[Read More] Pre-Treatment Steps Before Fitting a Dental Bridge: Key Considerations
Is Brushing Your Tongue Necessary? A Guide to Oral Hygiene
Tongue coating concerns? Hello, I recently discovered the issue of tongue scraping. I have never had the habit of scraping my tongue since I was young. Is this practice necessary, doctor? If so, how should it be done? Thank you for your response.
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If your dietary habits frequently include sticky or staining foods, which can lead to the development of tongue coating, it is advisable to brush the dorsal surface of your tongue. Thank you![Read More] Is Brushing Your Tongue Necessary? A Guide to Oral Hygiene
Understanding Gum Pain: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care
Pressure on the gums can cause pain? Hello, I noticed two nights ago that the gum around my lower left canine (toward the bottom) is painful when pressure is applied, and it appears red compared to my other gums. Currently, there are no visible wounds or swelling, but there is pa...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The common causes of acute gingivitis are minor infections or injuries, including trauma from biting. It is recommended to increase nutritional intake, maintain oral hygiene, and observe for 3 to 5 days. If there is no improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pain: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care
Understanding Persistent Oral Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Oral issues Hello Dr. Tseng, I apologize for the lengthy message, but I recently underwent some examinations and would appreciate your patience in reading through my concerns. Thank you. I have been experiencing discomfort in my oral cavity for the past five months. Let me deta...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended that if there is a suspicion of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, one should consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for a TMJ imaging examination, and also to assess whether there is an issue with occlusal instability.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Oral Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Post-Filling Sensitivity: Tips to Extend Your Dental Restoration's Lifespan
After dental fillings, consuming hot or cold foods may cause sensitivity or discomfort. To maintain and extend the lifespan of dental fillings, consider the following tips: 1. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for the first few days after the procedure. 2. Practice good oral hy...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. If you still experience sensitivity after a dental filling, it indicates that the dental nerve is reacting, and you should return for an examination immediately. 2. During your follow-up visit, you should inform the dentist about when the sensitivity occurs and its frequency,...[Read More] Post-Filling Sensitivity: Tips to Extend Your Dental Restoration's Lifespan
Understanding Tongue Issues: Symptoms and Concerns About Oral Cancer
Tongue issues? A few days ago, I experienced severe ulceration under my tongue, with a relatively large ulcer area. After visiting a doctor and applying the medication prescribed for a few days, it has finally healed to a large extent. However, I now notice that the front part of...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The most direct way to confirm whether it is oral cancer is through a biopsy. Whether a biopsy is necessary will be determined by the physician who is evaluating your oral condition. It is recommended that you discuss with your treating physician whether a biopsy is needed...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Issues: Symptoms and Concerns About Oral Cancer