Is There Cavities Under Your Dental Filling? What You Need to Know
Is there decay under the filling? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if the grayish appearance seen under a filling from years ago could indicate tooth decay? If there is only a small amount of decay, can it be detected on an X-ray? Additionally, if there is leakage around a fill...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: A re-fill usually requires the complete removal of the old filling material before placing new dental material. Otherwise, effective bonding between the old and new materials cannot be achieved, which may lead to failure! It is essential to have a dentist conduct an actual...[Read More] Is There Cavities Under Your Dental Filling? What You Need to Know
Understanding Post-Root Canal Treatment: Do You Need a Crown?
A crown is needed after root canal treatment? Hello Doctor, I have been observing my molar root canal for a month. Last week, I returned for a dental check-up. Although there is no inflammation or pain, I noticed a significant sensitivity when I lightly tapped my molar with my fi...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to observe for a while longer. After all, if there is currently percussion pain, starting to chew with a prosthesis may cause more discomfort! Even if a root canal treatment is redone now, it would still be a matter of waiting for the body to heal, and ther...[Read More] Understanding Post-Root Canal Treatment: Do You Need a Crown?
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Common Issues and Relief Strategies
Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction? Hello, I had my upper and lower right wisdom teeth extracted on August 2nd. The lower one was a horizontal wisdom tooth that required incision and suturing, and both teeth were extracted with some force. About 3-4 days later, t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there has been grinding on the alveolar bone, it can indeed be more painful. If there is a slight hematoma during percussion, it may also cause discomfort in the gum area. It is recommended to continue taking antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain relievers. Additionall...[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Common Issues and Relief Strategies
Understanding Tongue Indentations: Causes and Recovery Time
Depression on the tongue Hello Doctor: Two weeks ago, I cut my tongue with dental floss, which caused bleeding and a dent that is red with small white spots around it. After two weeks, the dent seems to have not healed, but it hasn't turned into a white ulcer and is not pain...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The recovery of the mucosa typically takes about one month to fully return to its original state. If swallowing saliva is painful, it is advisable to have your throat examined. It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist to confirm whether there is any inflammation or...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Indentations: Causes and Recovery Time
Persistent Jaw Pain: Exploring Dental Solutions for Chronic Discomfort
Dental pain/toothache? Hello Doctor: Since the end of 2018, I have had a small round swelling in my right maxilla, which has not subsided or stopped hurting until now. To address this issue, I have undergone 14 root canal treatments, apicoectomies, and subsequently had teeth 15 a...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the oral surgery department at a medical center for a CT scan of the head and neck to confirm if there are any other systemic factors contributing to your inflammatory infection. Additionally, blood tests can be conducted to check the values rela...[Read More] Persistent Jaw Pain: Exploring Dental Solutions for Chronic Discomfort
Managing Post-Root Canal Inflammation: Treatment Options and Considerations
Post-endodontic treatment inflammation? Dear Doctor: In 2015, I underwent root canal treatment on my lower left premolar but did not have a crown placed for protection. The following year, I developed a small abscess, and the doctor suggested extraction, but after switching to an...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to try treatment one more time, unless it is truly not feasible to save the tooth before extraction. Before extraction, you can inquire about dental implant options, so you don't have to wait until after the extraction to find an implant clinic. Imme...[Read More] Managing Post-Root Canal Inflammation: Treatment Options and Considerations
Is It Wisdom Teeth Coming In? Symptoms and Relief Tips
Is it wisdom teeth coming in? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about something. For the past two days, I've suddenly felt some pain in the bone below my right ear, and also near my jawline. Additionally, the tissue at the back of my lower teeth feels like it has a bump, as ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, it is indeed quite likely that the cause is related to wisdom teeth. If the reason for the swollen and painful gums is associated with the wisdom teeth, it is advisable to have the wisdom teeth extracted to alleviate the symptoms of the gums.[Read More] Is It Wisdom Teeth Coming In? Symptoms and Relief Tips
Understanding Gum Cysts: What to Do About a White Bump After Root Canal
Gingival cyst - A small white bump has appeared beneath a tooth that underwent root canal treatment nine years ago? Hello, Doctor. The small bump is located on the upper right first molar. This tooth underwent treatment for a cavity nine years ago, and the dentist indicated that ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to wait until you return to your home country to have an X-ray taken to confirm the true condition of the cyst. Oral anti-inflammatory medications or topical oral ointments can temporarily relieve discomfort and may prevent the cyst from worsening, but it...[Read More] Understanding Gum Cysts: What to Do About a White Bump After Root Canal
Is It Normal to Have Bleeding Four Days After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
On the fourth day after wisdom tooth extraction, there is still some oozing of blood? It has been four days since my wisdom tooth extraction (on August 1), and there is still a small amount of bleeding. Should I return to the dentist for an examination? I'm not sure if this ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: What you described is a normal course of action, and mild bleeding does not require excessive concern. If you are still worried, it is advisable to return for a follow-up. If there is no more bleeding, you can come back for suture removal in a week![Read More] Is It Normal to Have Bleeding Four Days After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: White Tissue and Foul Odor Concerns
After wisdom tooth surgery, there is white tissue and a foul odor? On July 29, I had my upper left wisdom tooth extracted, and there is a piece of white tissue hanging down, which I believe is not food because it is attached. Initially, on the first day after the extraction, ther...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you return for a follow-up appointment with your doctor, especially within the first 48 hours post-surgery, as this period is critical for avoiding infection. If you have not taken antibiotics, there is a risk of infection. The first 48 hours after s...[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: White Tissue and Foul Odor Concerns
Understanding Tooth Pain After Filling: Causes and Concerns
Tooth pain after a dental filling? Hello, doctor. I previously went to a regional hospital for a dental filling. After examining my teeth, the responsible dentist said I had a small cavity and then referred me to another dentist for the filling. I'm not sure if that dentist ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If you experience pain when consuming hot or cold foods one month after having a cavity filled, it is advisable to return for a check-up to see if the filling has cracked or come loose. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain After Filling: Causes and Concerns
Understanding White Lines on the Tongue: Signs of Lichen Planus and Healing Insights
Tongue issues? The white lines appearing on the tongue have been assessed by a doctor at a major hospital and are considered a precursor to oral lichen planus. However, there are still white spots on the tip of the tongue that were burned two weeks ago (likely the taste buds?), w...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. It should be in the process of healing, so please be patient. 2. In dentistry, local immunosuppressants are usually administered to prevent recurrent inflammation; however, it is still recommended to consult a rheumatologist and have blood tests done to check for other ...[Read More] Understanding White Lines on the Tongue: Signs of Lichen Planus and Healing Insights
Understanding Red Bumps on Lips: When to Seek Dental Care
A red spot on the lip? Hello Doctor, it seems that I might have bitten this area while eating, but I'm not entirely sure if it's the spot indicated by the arrow. Today, I suddenly noticed that when I feel this location with my tongue, there is a small red bump that does...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. It could be a blister or an infection. If it breaks and there is no discomfort or persistent bleeding, it is advisable to monitor it. 2. If it does not resolve after two weeks, you should see a doctor for an examination. 3. Both are acceptable. 4. If there is ongoing pain or r...[Read More] Understanding Red Bumps on Lips: When to Seek Dental Care
Understanding Tongue Inflammation: Causes and Concerns
Tongue inflammation? I'm very sorry to bother you again, but here are the images of my tongue. Last week, the area that was originally white developed white and red spots, possibly due to a burn, and it has persisted for a week. The burned area has white skin that can be pee...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The two photos do not appear to resemble oral cancer. If you are still very concerned about the possibility of cancer, it is advisable to visit an oral surgeon for a biopsy and blood tests to check relevant values, as this would provide a more accurate assessment.[Read More] Understanding Tongue Inflammation: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Gum Blisters: Causes and Concerns After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Gingival vesicle Two weeks ago, after having my wisdom teeth removed, my immune system weakened, and I developed a lot of cold sores. Then, four days ago, I noticed many small white spots appearing on my upper gums (they feel like small blisters) scattered across the upper gums. ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to supplement with more vitamin B. Additionally, you may apply some antiviral ointment for herpes. If you still do not recover, it is advisable to seek medical treatment.[Read More] Understanding Gum Blisters: Causes and Concerns After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Understanding Baby Tooth Displacement: What Parents Should Know
Tooth displacement in primary dentition? Hello doctor, my child is currently 9 months old. A few days ago, he fell and displaced his upper primary tooth, which is now loose and he bled quite a bit. When we went to the doctor, they said fortunately it was just a primary tooth. It ...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Eva: Hello, if the primary teeth have not fully erupted, we can observe to see if they are still loose. If they are no longer loose, it is advisable to stabilize them. If the tooth color changes to yellow or grayish-yellow, root canal treatment may be necessary to maintain the to...[Read More] Understanding Baby Tooth Displacement: What Parents Should Know
Understanding Gum Pits: Are They Normal After Healing?
Gum recession or gum indentation? Hello doctor, I previously had a hole in my gums, but after it healed (the color has returned to normal, and there is no pain), that area still appears to be sunken. I would like to know if this is normal or if there is anything I should be conce...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is advised to take care when caring for the wound. Brush your teeth gently, chew slowly and thoroughly, and avoid hard foods (such as sharp bones). You may apply an appropriate amount of oral ointment to protect the wound and prevent irritation. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Chia-...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pits: Are They Normal After Healing?
Understanding Post-Scaling Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort after teeth cleaning? I would like to ask the doctor about my dental issues. I have dental calculus, and last week, while I was experiencing allergies, I coughed up a small piece of calculus. Since then, my back teeth have become very sensitive. The pain is not like ty...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to initially use desensitizing toothpaste for symptom relief. Apply a small amount of desensitizing toothpaste to the sensitive and painful areas about three times a day. Additionally, avoid consuming very cold or very hot foods, and schedule regular foll...[Read More] Understanding Post-Scaling Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Risk of Dental Cyst Recurrence and Implant Timing
The possibility of recurrence of a radicular cyst? Hello, I underwent an apicoectomy on March 15, 2021, which later failed, leading to the extraction of the tooth on November 15, 2021. During the apicoectomy, a cyst was removed, and the report indicated it was benign. I would lik...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to undergo a CT scan of the head and neck for confirmation, which can be done by an otolaryngologist or a family medicine physician. It is advisable to wait until after the pregnancy is completed before proceeding with extensive dental implant surgery.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of Dental Cyst Recurrence and Implant Timing
Post-Gingival Flap Surgery: When Can You Eat Normally Again?
Gingivectomy I had a gingival flap surgery today at the dental clinic on the right side. The doctor said I could eat once the anesthesia wore off. I then tried to bite with the surgical side, but it felt a bit painful, and I noticed a little bit of bleeding. Is this normal, or sh...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to wait 5 to 7 days after the wound has healed before starting to bear weight.[Read More] Post-Gingival Flap Surgery: When Can You Eat Normally Again?