Understanding Cheek Issues Near Wisdom Teeth: When to Seek Dental Care
Issues related to the buccal mucosa adjacent to the wisdom teeth? Hello, Doctor. I have a small area (about the size of two or three sesame seeds) on the buccal surface next to my lower wisdom teeth on both sides. Although it looks similar in color to the normal mucosa, it appear...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If seven doctors have examined you and all indicated that everything is normal, it is advisable to relax. Oral mucosa examinations are conducted every two years.[Read More] Understanding Cheek Issues Near Wisdom Teeth: When to Seek Dental Care
Red Spots on Tongue Sides: Causes and Cancer Concerns Explained
There are long-term red spots on both sides of the tongue, but they are not painful? Hello Dr. Lin, I have noticed red spots on both sides of my tongue for the past few months (as shown in the attached image). They do not hurt when touched, but I am concerned that these persisten...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist or oral surgeon for a biopsy or laser treatment to ensure that the area does not have any malignant changes for peace of mind.[Read More] Red Spots on Tongue Sides: Causes and Cancer Concerns Explained
Understanding Oral Polyps: Should You Be Concerned?
Oral polyp It seems that I have developed a polyp near my tonsils. Is this normal? The first image shows the right side, which appears normal, while the second image shows the left side, where the circled area seems to be a polyp. Should I go to the hospital for treatment? Thank ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist for further examination. Director Tseng Guang-Hui from the Dental Department of Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Oral Polyps: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Oral Lichen Planus: Concerns About Biopsy and Healing
Oral lichen planus, oral mucosal ulcers, tongue ulcers? Hello Doctor: I was recently diagnosed with possible oral lichen planus, with reticular and ulcerative forms. The doctor recommended a biopsy for further confirmation, but I am concerned that the biopsy site may heal poorly ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Oral lichen planus is recommended for biopsy because some studies suggest it may be a warning sign of oral cancer. Additionally, if a tongue ulcer does not improve after two weeks, it is advisable to consult an oral surgeon or an otolaryngologist to evaluate the need for a biopsy...[Read More] Understanding Oral Lichen Planus: Concerns About Biopsy and Healing
Persistent Oral Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Oral discomfort Hello, Director Lin: I have been experiencing discomfort on the inner right side of my mouth for about 5 to 6 years. Initially, I thought it was related to my wisdom teeth, so I had them removed approximately 3 years ago, but the discomfort persists. I constantly ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to perform a neck and head X-ray to confirm whether there is inflammation or foreign body infection in that area. Additionally, it is important to rule out the presence of overly deep dental implants or unsuitable crowns/bridges. Psychogenic factors such ...[Read More] Persistent Oral Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Post-Salivary Gland Cyst Removal: Should You Be Concerned?
Post-salivary gland cyst excision Excuse me, I would like to ask the doctor a question. A few days ago, I underwent a salivary gland cyst removal surgery, but a few days after the surgery, a very small bubble-like structure has appeared at the surgical site. Should I go for anoth...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The salivary glands in that area are prone to injury and blockage. It is advisable to identify the underlying causes, including whether there are habitual actions such as lip biting or tongue thrusting. Additionally, you may want to consult about the need for a night guard...[Read More] Post-Salivary Gland Cyst Removal: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Occasional Tooth Pain: Causes and Concerns
Dull toothache? Hello, doctor! I occasionally experience a dull pain in my lower left first molar. There is no redness or swelling, but sometimes I feel a sharp pain when yawning. When I bite down hard, I feel a sharp pain on the side of the tooth, but not towards the back. Press...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to first investigate potential causes in the lower left area (after all, the upper left molar has already undergone root canal treatment). This includes checking if there is an excessively deep dental implant in the lower left that may be affecting the prop...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Tooth Pain: Causes and Concerns
Proper Tongue Positioning: Key to Preventing Dental Issues
Position of the lips and tongue? Hello, doctor. What is the correct position for the tongue? I read online that it should be against the hard palate, and an orthodontist mentioned that keeping the mouth closed can prevent protruding teeth. However, when I close my mouth, my tongu...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to relax and maintain your original state. If you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, you may ask your dentist to assist in creating a tongue retainer device to prevent the tongue from interfering with tooth movement. If you are not currently ...[Read More] Proper Tongue Positioning: Key to Preventing Dental Issues
Can You Use Oral Gel After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Mouth ulcer after wisdom tooth extraction? After having both upper and lower wisdom teeth extracted on the same side, I noticed that three days later, the area near the extraction site started to break down, making it difficult to eat. Can I apply an over-the-counter oral gel (li...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Applying oral ointment can alleviate the pain symptoms of mouth ulcers. As long as the extraction site is kept clean, it will not affect the wound. - Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Can You Use Oral Gel After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Persistent Bad Breath from Gaps Between Teeth: Causes and Solutions
Bad odor from between the teeth? I went to two dental clinics for a cleaning and check-up because of bad odor coming from my teeth gaps. The doctors examined my teeth and said they were in good condition. Despite brushing normally and using dental floss, the odor from the gaps pe...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Tsai: In addition to oral hygiene issues, if there is an unpleasant odor in the mouth, it may be necessary to consider whether there are abnormal secretions from the nasopharynx or gastrointestinal tract, such as gastroesophageal reflux, which can create an acidic envir...[Read More] Persistent Bad Breath from Gaps Between Teeth: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood Loss During Brushing: Causes and Dental Care Tips
Where does blood actually come from? Hello Doctor: My upper right last tooth has a large cavity, and the doctor assessed that dental implant is recommended, so a temporary filling was placed to support it. After I started paying attention to my oral hygiene, my teeth cleaning no ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If brushing your teeth easily causes bleeding, it may indicate that there is still inflammation in the gums or that you accidentally brushed against the gum tissue. Temporary materials may not hold up for long, so it is advisable to return to the dentist for further treatment. Dr...[Read More] Understanding Blood Loss During Brushing: Causes and Dental Care Tips
Dealing with Oral Discomfort After Orthodontic Treatment: Solutions Explored
After orthodontic treatment, the teeth may scrape against the oral mucosa? Dear Dr. Tseng, Before orthodontic treatment, the alignment of my upper teeth was comfortable. However, after completing the treatment, one of my upper teeth (the one next to the front tooth) has a rough ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Deb: If you frequently experience discomfort from friction on the inner mucosa of your lower lip, you should consider whether the alignment of your incisors is off. It is recommended that if you have periodontal disease, you should first treat the periodontal condition ...[Read More] Dealing with Oral Discomfort After Orthodontic Treatment: Solutions Explored
Understanding Gum Abscess Between Upper Teeth: Causes and Treatments
A gum abscess between the teeth? I have a pus-filled bump on the gum between my upper front tooth and canine. Sometimes I experience discomfort and a tingling sensation, similar to sensitivity. I would like to ask the doctor if there is a possibility of self-resolution, or what c...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: The presence of a pus-filled bump may be due to gum inflammation or infection. It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly and using mouthwash. If there is no improvement, it is advisable to consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. ...[Read More] Understanding Gum Abscess Between Upper Teeth: Causes and Treatments
Persistent Oral Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do?
After having my wisdom teeth removed, I have been experiencing persistent pain in my mouth? Hello. I had my wisdom teeth removed around mid-February, and I felt that I was recovering well by early March. However, in early April, I started experiencing pain in my oral tissue. I ha...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is recommended to first consult a dentist to check for periodontal disease, apical periodontitis, or temporomandibular joint issues. If everything is normal but discomfort persists, consider whether it may be related to facial nerve or trigeminal nerve problems, and seek furth...[Read More] Persistent Oral Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do?
Understanding Maxillary Sinus Odontogenic Keratocyst: Risks and Concerns
Regarding maxillary sinus odontogenic keratocyst? Hello, I have been experiencing discomfort on the left side of my face since last year. After undergoing a biopsy at the hospital, I was diagnosed with a maxillary sinus odontogenic keratocyst. Following decompression treatment, t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. It is advisable to relax for now; you have already undergone the most proactive surgical treatment available, and there is no need to dwell on negative thoughts. 2. After recurrence, it is important to determine whether it is malignant or has spread to other areas. If i...[Read More] Understanding Maxillary Sinus Odontogenic Keratocyst: Risks and Concerns
Dealing with Tooth Roots: What to Do When Extraction Fails
The residual root cannot be extracted? Hello, doctor. A few years after undergoing root canal treatment, I experienced severe pain in the same tooth due to extensive decay. My dentist advised that I needed an extraction. However, when I finally went for the extraction, only the r...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to observe first. If the body can absorb it on its own, that would be the best outcome. If there is no local inflammation or other symptoms, surgery for removal is not advised. If there are other necessary considerations, it is suggested to consult an ora...[Read More] Dealing with Tooth Roots: What to Do When Extraction Fails
Essential Considerations for Orthodontics and Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide
Orthodontics (Invisalign), periodontal integration, and maxillary removable dentures causing difficulty in eating? 1. Is it necessary to be free of periodontal disease in order to undergo orthodontic treatment (Invisalign)? 2. Should cavities be filled and a periodontal treatment...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. It is essential to complete the treatment of periodontal disease before orthodontic treatment. 2. Prior to orthodontic treatment, any cavities should be filled, and periodontal disease treatment must be completed. 3. It is advisable to consult an orthodontist regarding the...[Read More] Essential Considerations for Orthodontics and Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Tooth Decay: Concerns About Fillings and Discoloration
Dental caries and dental discoloration? The front teeth had cavities that were filled previously, but the interface between the filling material and the tooth is black. After 8 months, the appearance hasn't changed; the dark area hasn't enlarged, and the teeth feel the ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, 1. If the appearance of the filled front tooth looks dark, it may be due to the filling material being metallic, or there may be residual decay that hasn't been cleaned properly. It is recommended to return for a check-up. 2. If the filling material is very strong...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: Concerns About Fillings and Discoloration
Understanding TMJ Disorders: When to Seek Dental Help for Facial Asymmetry
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) on both sides feel very different, and the left and right sides of my face appear quite dissimilar, with one side seeming more protruded. When I open my mouth, I can clearly feel that one side of the bone is more pr...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If there is a clicking sound in the temporomandibular joint while speaking, along with soreness in the cheek muscles, it is advisable to consult a dentist or an oral surgeon for further evaluation. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders: When to Seek Dental Help for Facial Asymmetry
Understanding Metal Exposure in Dental Bridges and Its Effects on Oral Health
The two fixed dentures (dental bridge) on the upper front teeth have completely exposed the metal color on the back, and the lower front teeth are starting to feel numb? About three years ago, I had a dental bridge made for my front teeth. Recently, I have been experiencing a met...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there are different types of metals in the mouth, some individuals may experience a phenomenon of electrical conduction, resulting in a tingling or stimulating sensation. It is advisable to check not only for exposed metal in the upper dentures but also for any other di...[Read More] Understanding Metal Exposure in Dental Bridges and Its Effects on Oral Health