How to Determine If You Have Bad Breath: Tips and Tests
How to know if you have bad breath? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you how to determine if I have bad breath. 1. Can I tell if my saliva smells bad by smelling it? 2. When I breathe into my palm, what kind of smell indicates bad breath? (The air I exhale through my nose h...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
1. Licking the back of your hand with your tongue once and then smelling it five seconds later can help you determine if you have bad breath, or you can simply ask someone else directly. 2. Breathing into your palm may also serve as a reference. 3. Dental plaque is essentially ...[Read More] How to Determine If You Have Bad Breath: Tips and Tests
Dental Care for Patients with Impaired Consciousness: Best Practices
Dental care for patients with altered consciousness? Hello! My grandmother was previously in a coma due to a brain injury from a car accident. She has now recovered enough to eat soft foods like porridge, but her consciousness has not fully returned. She is unable to speak and do...
Dr. Lin Qingye Reply:
Hello Miss Shuang: I believe you are a dutiful child who cares about your grandmother's toothache. Actually, you don't need to worry too much; some dental clinics have special services for patients with intellectual disabilities, or dentists who have received training i...[Read More] Dental Care for Patients with Impaired Consciousness: Best Practices
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Why X-rays Show No Issues
The teeth that appeared normal on the X-ray seem strange? Recently, I discovered that one of my teeth feels sensitive when I use dental floss. This tooth had a filling done a long time ago, specifically on the small molar in front of the larger molar. I went to the dentist for an...
Dr. Lin Qingye Reply:
Miss Celia: Gum inflammation or gaps on the surface of the teeth can both cause tooth sensitivity. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment after some time, as not every condition shows significant changes on X-rays.[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Why X-rays Show No Issues
Understanding Oral Lesions: When to Seek Further Dental Evaluation
Doctor, please take a look? Hello Doctor: You asked me to go to a hospital with an oral surgery department. Is Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital considered large enough? However, when I went for a consultation, the doctor told me that it doesn't look like cancer. He mentio...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Before the pathological biopsy results are available, it is difficult to have a definitive answer. However, based on what you described, it does not seem to be cancer. If you find this issue very bothersome, you may ask your physician to remove it, and then the pathological exami...[Read More] Understanding Oral Lesions: When to Seek Further Dental Evaluation
Understanding Tooth Discoloration: Causes and Solutions for Yellow Teeth
Yellow teeth? When I was in about third grade, my teeth were very white. By fourth and fifth grade, after losing my baby teeth and getting my permanent teeth, they gradually became yellow. My teeth are not very straight, which might be the reason I can't brush them properly....
Dr. Lin Qingye Reply:
Mr. Little Boy: Compared to permanent teeth, primary teeth tend to be whiter. Misalignment of teeth can be attributed to various factors, but it is not significantly related to difficulties in brushing. It is recommended to use dental floss to supplement the shortcomings of brush...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Discoloration: Causes and Solutions for Yellow Teeth
Correcting Malocclusion After Fractured Frontal Bones: A Guide
Fracture of the bilateral frontal bones leading to malocclusion? Hello Doctor, I had an accident a year and a half ago that resulted in fractures of both frontal bones, leading to malocclusion. After two months of fixation with wires, they were removed, and I thought I would grad...
Dr. Lin Qingye Reply:
Mr. Fan, while I sympathize with your situation, I must say sorry! Due to the insufficient information you provided, I am unable to offer you a more comprehensive recommendation. However, I can remind you of a few points: 1. Does the incident meet the criteria for work-related in...[Read More] Correcting Malocclusion After Fractured Frontal Bones: A Guide
Dealing with Persistent Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions
Annoying problem I have quite severe halitosis. In the morning when I wake up or a few hours after brushing my teeth, I can noticeably smell something strange in my saliva, which lasts all day. I've seen many doctors, and they say my teeth are fine. I clean my mouth diligent...
Dr. Lin Qingye Reply:
Hello Mr. Xiaoxin: The occurrence of halitosis can have many causes. It is often due to the presence of tongue coating or the odor from food residues that have been fermented and decomposed by bacteria. Sometimes, it is important not to overlook the possibility of oral odors aris...[Read More] Dealing with Persistent Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Root Canal Treatment: Costs, Risks, and Procedures Explained
Regarding root canal treatment? Hello, I have a question. Six years ago, I had a tooth that underwent root canal treatment and was capped with a crown. In September, I bit down on something hard and suddenly felt a lot of pain. I visited three dental clinics, and the doctors said...
Dr. Liu Tiancai Reply:
Hello: 1. Gingivectomy should be referred to as crown lengthening. The cost is within 10,000 NTD, depending on the complexity. 2. Root canal treatment may have different charges if non-NHI covered instruments or materials are used. 3. Root canal treatment is a meticulous procedur...[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Treatment: Costs, Risks, and Procedures Explained
Understanding Orthodontics: Addressing Jaw Pain and Misalignment
Orthodontics Hello Director Liu: I am considering orthodontic treatment and would like to know if your hospital has specialists in this field. Recently, I have been experiencing frequent soreness in my lower jaw, and I am wondering if it is related to malocclusion. Thank you.
Dr. Liu Tiancai Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for experiencing pain in the lower jaw. Malocclusion may be one of the causes, as well as temporomandibular joint disorders, wisdom teeth eruption, and others that can lead to lower jaw pain. It is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination. Ou...[Read More] Understanding Orthodontics: Addressing Jaw Pain and Misalignment
Dealing with Adult Teeth Issues: What to Do About Retained Baby Teeth?
Significant issues regarding my teeth? I am 18 years old and still have some baby teeth. What should I do? I previously visited a clinic where the doctor advised me to have them extracted, but after the extractions, some teeth only partially erupted, and others did not erupt at a...
Dr. Yang Hui Reply:
Hello Wing: There are two possible scenarios for your situation. a. The permanent teeth have erupted, pushing the primary teeth aside, and these primary teeth should be extracted. b. If the primary teeth are not loose at this time, an X-ray should be taken to check for the presen...[Read More] Dealing with Adult Teeth Issues: What to Do About Retained Baby Teeth?
Persistent Dental Abscess: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions
A dental abscess that does not resolve over a long period? Hello Dr. Liu: Last year around this time, I went to a dental clinic for a cavity, and the dentist filled the tooth for me. After returning home, I noticed that the gum around that tooth has been developing dental abscess...
Dr. Liu Tiancai Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it appears that the pulp (nerve) of the affected tooth has become necrotic and infected, leading to a chronic periapical abscess. The bacteria and their toxins within the root canal have caused inflammation and pus formation in the surrounding ti...[Read More] Persistent Dental Abscess: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions
Understanding Limited Jaw Opening: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care
Inability to open the mouth? Hello Dr. Wang: After seeing the questions others have raised, I have the same issue, which is that I can only open my mouth 3-4 centimeters wide. Previously, I noticed a clicking sound when eating, but I didn't think much of it, attributing it t...
Dr. Wang Cunzhen Reply:
Hello: Since your issue is still in the early stages, it may be advisable to start by consuming soft foods for a period of time. Avoid chewing gum, squid strips, and jerky. Applying heat to the joints can help reduce jaw movement and improve sleep quality. If there is no improvem...[Read More] Understanding Limited Jaw Opening: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care
Should You Pull Baby Teeth for Growing Permanent Ones in Kids?
Children's Tooth Eruption Hello Doctor: My daughter is currently 6 years old, and her lower front teeth (deciduous teeth) have not yet fallen out (they show no signs of loosening), while new teeth (permanent teeth) have already started to emerge behind them. Some people sugg...
Dr. Lin Qingye Reply:
Dear Xiaojuan, a person's life typically includes two sets of teeth: primary teeth and permanent teeth. In the past, it was believed that retained primary teeth could hinder the growth of permanent teeth; however, it is now understood that healthy primary teeth can guide the...[Read More] Should You Pull Baby Teeth for Growing Permanent Ones in Kids?
Addressing Gaps in Front Teeth: Options and Considerations
Midline diastema of the incisors? Hello, doctor. I've had a large gap in my front teeth since childhood, about 1-2mm. When I talk, I'm really afraid of accidentally spitting saliva. This gap is a significant concern for me, so I want to resolve it. I've even consid...
Dr. Yuan Ziming Reply:
If there is a gap in the center of the upper front teeth and there is a functional need, there are several solutions available: 1. Resin filling 2. Porcelain crowns (2-3 teeth) 3. Temporary dentures to cover the gap 4. Orthodontics: to close the gap. As for surgery, it involves u...[Read More] Addressing Gaps in Front Teeth: Options and Considerations
Addressing Tooth Grinding and Dental Issues: Seeking Solutions
Denture grinding issues? Hello, due to my upper front teeth being misaligned and having a slight overbite, a poorly qualified dentist extracted my upper front teeth. Since then, I have had a specific tooth that grinds against others, and my dentist recommended orthodontic treatme...
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for teeth grinding, including issues related to occlusion in the mouth and facial muscle tension caused by emotional stress. Your situation is quite unique, and I recommend that you visit a dental department at a teaching hospital to check for any oc...[Read More] Addressing Tooth Grinding and Dental Issues: Seeking Solutions
Overcoming Bad Breath and Gum Disease: A Teen's Guide
Periodontal disease? I am a high school student... a few years ago, I developed periodontal disease, which has caused bad breath... I also have issues with air escaping when I speak... When talking to others, I fear that they will dislike me because of my bad breath... I don'...
Dr. Chen Yingfang Reply:
Hello! Treating periodontal disease requires proper and effective brushing. Thank you![Read More] Overcoming Bad Breath and Gum Disease: A Teen's Guide
Ideal Solutions for Replacing a Missing Tooth: Implants vs. Removable Options
The ideal method for restoring a lost tooth depends on various factors, including the location of the missing tooth, the condition of the surrounding teeth, and the patient's overall oral health. Common options include dental implants, which provide a permanent solution; den...
Dr. Liu Tiancai Reply:
Hello: For a single missing tooth, if there are healthy teeth on both sides, a traditional dental bridge can be made. The cost is relatively low, and the lifespan is long. However, the downside is that the adjacent teeth need to be reduced in size. If you prefer not to grind down...[Read More] Ideal Solutions for Replacing a Missing Tooth: Implants vs. Removable Options
Can Tongue Coating Cause Bad Breath? Understanding Oral Health Issues
Can a coated tongue cause bad breath? Dear Dr. Chen, I have been suffering from halitosis for over 20 years. Dr. Andy Sun from National Taiwan University said there are no issues with my oral cavity, and the dentist confirmed that my teeth are fine (that tartar does not cause lo...
Dr. Chen Yingfang Reply:
Hello, please come to the outpatient clinic for a consultation. Thank you![Read More] Can Tongue Coating Cause Bad Breath? Understanding Oral Health Issues
Can Tongue Coating Cause Bad Breath? Understanding Oral Health Issues
Can a coated tongue cause bad breath? Dear Dr. Tseng, Recently, I saw a television advertisement stating that tongue coating can affect oral taste and cause bad breath. I have been experiencing bad breath for over 20 years (since middle school, when others informed me about it)....
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
The causes of halitosis can be divided into external and internal factors. External factors refer to poor oral hygiene, which allows bacteria in the mouth to ferment food residues left in the oral cavity, producing volatile sulfur compounds that lead to a distinct odor. This incl...[Read More] Can Tongue Coating Cause Bad Breath? Understanding Oral Health Issues
Understanding Dental Fistulas: Causes, Treatment, and Healing Insights
Dental fistula Hello, doctor. Recently, I developed a fistula after root canal treatment. There is a small hole in the gum near my left central incisor, and the doctor said that it is a fistula. The medication injected into the tooth root can come out of this hole. The doctor men...
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello, 1. If the fistula does not heal, bacteria can easily accumulate within it, increasing the risk of infection; therefore, it should be excised. 2. Fistula surgery is not very time-consuming; a general physician can typically complete it in about half an hour.[Read More] Understanding Dental Fistulas: Causes, Treatment, and Healing Insights