Understanding Black or Green Spots on Your Baby's Gums: What to Do?
Black spots on a baby's gums? Hello Doctor: My daughter (1 year and 5 months old) recently developed a green or black spot on the gum of one of her lower incisors. It looks similar to food particles, but the location is deep in the gingival sulcus (clearly visible from the f...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If food debris gets trapped in the gingival sulcus, it can lead to gingival inflammation and pain over time. Therefore, it is important to monitor the gums for signs of inflammation. If any inflammatory symptoms are present, immediate medical attention should be sought. Dr. Tseng...[Read More] Understanding Black or Green Spots on Your Baby's Gums: What to Do?
Persistent Cysts After Apex Surgery: What Are Your Options?
The dental cyst did not resolve after undergoing apicoectomy? Hello, Dr. Lin. Last year, I developed an abscess on my gums. Since it wasn't painful, I delayed seeking treatment for six months, and it eventually changed color to a grayish-black before I decided to see a docto...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The success of the surgery can only be confirmed through X-rays; it is difficult to draw conclusions based solely on changes in the color and texture of the gums or soft tissues. It is recommended to continue follow-up at the original clinic, or you may seek a second or th...[Read More] Persistent Cysts After Apex Surgery: What Are Your Options?
Post-Joint Lavage: Understanding Recovery and Pain Management
Post-arthrocentesis? After the arthrocentesis on December 2, I still experience intermittent pain symptoms, and there is a grinding sound when eating. Is this considered a normal phenomenon during the recovery period? When consuming food with temperature differences (hot or cold)...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: After joint irrigation, it still requires time for recovery. It is recommended to rest the joint as much as possible and avoid consuming excessively cold or hot foods. Flurbiprofen can also cause gastrointestinal irritation; therefore, it is advisable to take this type of ...[Read More] Post-Joint Lavage: Understanding Recovery and Pain Management
Understanding Post-Pulp Capping Pain: When to Seek Dental Help
Pulp therapy and toothache? Hello, Dentist: I have completed direct pulp capping treatment a little over two weeks ago. Before the procedure, I had an X-ray taken, and the dentist said there were no cavities, although I had previous fillings. During the first week after the trea...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to just observe for now, because if you rush to seek medical attention, the doctor may perceive your pain as unbearable, which could likely lead to an immediate root canal treatment (nerve extraction). Unless you are in severe pain and do not wish to give...[Read More] Understanding Post-Pulp Capping Pain: When to Seek Dental Help
Is It Normal to Experience Pain During a Ceramic Crown Procedure?
Is it normal to experience significant pain during a ceramic crown procedure? Is it normal to experience significant pain during a ceramic crown procedure after receiving anesthesia? (Specifically, after partially grinding down the occlusal surface in the previous visit, I felt i...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
After taking impressions for a ceramic crown on a molar, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth before the permanent crown is fitted. This helps prevent sensitivity and discomfort. When it is time to place the permanent crown, the temporary crown is removed, an...[Read More] Is It Normal to Experience Pain During a Ceramic Crown Procedure?
Managing Tooth Cracks: When to Seek Treatment and What to Expect
Management of dental cracks and fractures? Hello Dr. Lin: Three years ago, I bit down on something hard and felt pain briefly, but it went away, so I didn't follow up. Recently, I've been experiencing pain again when biting down on hard objects in the same area, so I we...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the X-ray does not show any pathological changes or abnormalities, and you do not subjectively feel very uncomfortable, it is recommended to continue monitoring and observing without arbitrarily grinding or extracting healthy teeth. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department ...[Read More] Managing Tooth Cracks: When to Seek Treatment and What to Expect
Understanding Tooth Decay: Insights on Root Canal Treatment for Molars
Cavity in the upper left third molar? Hello, Doctor: I regularly visit the dentist for cleanings and have had issues with cavities for many years, with the upper left third molar being the most severe. Last year, the dentist suggested a root canal, but I refused because I have ne...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If the third molar has extensive decay, and there was a previous filling that has chipped off slightly, resulting in occasional sensitivity or pain, it is advisable to consult a dentist for an examination. An X-ray can be taken to assess the depth of the decay and determine wheth...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: Insights on Root Canal Treatment for Molars
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Inflammation After Dental Work
Tooth sensitivity or toothache? Hello, I have a deep cavity in my molar that is close to the nerve. After getting it filled, I experience sensitivity and pain when biting down on hard objects, which then leads to gum inflammation and soreness. There is pus when I apply pressure t...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If the filling is very close to the dental nerve, it may cause inflammation of the dental nerve. Therefore, in addition to gingival inflammation, it is also possible that the discomfort is caused by inflammation of the dental nerve. If the symptoms recur, it is advisable to consu...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Inflammation After Dental Work
Understanding Gum Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Dental Anxiety Solutions
The gums (gingiva) are swollen in one area but do not cause spontaneous pain? Hello, doctor. I have a strong fear of visiting the dentist and a fear of pain. It seems that the gum behind my upper front teeth is swollen (it feels swollen when I touch it with my tongue...). Since i...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
The inflammation may be due to the gingiva on the lingual side of the upper front teeth. The cause of the inflammation could be accumulated dental plaque or calculus. It is recommended to undergo a dental cleaning treatment to remove the plaque and calculus in order to improve th...[Read More] Understanding Gum Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Dental Anxiety Solutions
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pain: Is It Normal Years Later?
Discomfort persisting for several years after wisdom tooth extraction? Three years after having my lower left wisdom tooth extracted (without stitches), I have noticed that due to frequently staying up late for work and my habit of drinking coffee, I experience a dull pain around...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to have a CT scan of the head and neck performed by a neurologist to confirm whether the discomfort is caused by chronic inflammation near the tooth extraction site. This scan can also help determine if the discomfort while drinking is related to a sinus ...[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pain: Is It Normal Years Later?
Understanding Gum Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Gingival cyst Since June or July, I have been experiencing sudden pain in my teeth when chewing, as well as tenderness when pressure is applied. I have visited the dentist several times, and the doctor said there was no issue with my teeth. Due to other health concerns, I had an ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
There may be an infection and inflammation of the gums and periodontal tissues surrounding the teeth. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination and treatment. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Gum Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Submandibular Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Sublingual pain while eating? Hello, Dr. Tseng. Whenever I eat, a vein suddenly appears on the right side of my tongue, followed by swelling and pain, but it returns to normal after a while. Is this treatable? Which department should I consult?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
There may be inflammation of the salivary glands in the sublingual area or stones lodged in the salivary duct. It is recommended to consult a dentist or an otolaryngologist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Submandibular Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Hard Lumps Inside the Lower Lip: Causes and Concerns
Hard mass inside the lower lip? I previously noticed some firm, movable lumps that feel hard when pressed, approximately 0.5 cm in diameter, but they are not painful. Recently, it seems that there are more of them, although there are none on my upper lip or the sides. Is this nor...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is likely a minor salivary gland, which is part of normal tissue. However, to ensure that there are no other malignant changes, it is advisable to seek medical examination for confirmation. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry o...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps Inside the Lower Lip: Causes and Concerns
Is It Normal to Feel Discomfort After Blood Clot Falls Post-Tooth Extraction?
Is the discomfort I feel about four days after tooth extraction, when the blood clot falls out, a sign of healing? Hello, Doctor. I had my lower left second molar extracted on Monday, and today, Thursday, the blood clot has fallen out. There is a small area that looks white; is t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The initial healing period for a tooth extraction wound is at least 7 days. It is recommended to maintain cleanliness and take care of the area carefully. If there is swelling, pain, or bleeding, please seek medical attention promptly. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department ...[Read More] Is It Normal to Feel Discomfort After Blood Clot Falls Post-Tooth Extraction?
Why Won't My Dentist Fill My Cavity? Understanding Dental Decisions
After seeing the dentist for a cavity, no filling was done? I previously visited a dentist due to tooth pain, and it was visibly clear that there was a dark, sunken cavity in my tooth. Initially, the dentist planned to fill it, but after examining another tooth that was in worse ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If, after evaluation by a physician, the condition is identified as arrested caries, conservative management can indeed be considered. This includes the application of high-concentration fluoride and regular monitoring. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Ta...[Read More] Why Won't My Dentist Fill My Cavity? Understanding Dental Decisions
Understanding Gum Issues: Causes and Solutions for Painful Holes
Gingival recession with perforation? Hello, Doctor. This evening while brushing my teeth, I accidentally brushed too hard and caused some bleeding. Initially, I thought it was just a small cut and that it might be due to late-night inflammation. However, I later realized it was q...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there are polyps in the gums, it is advisable to seek medical examination as soon as possible. Oral gels (ointments) often contain steroids, so it is recommended to use them in small amounts for a short duration. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichu...[Read More] Understanding Gum Issues: Causes and Solutions for Painful Holes
Is It Normal to Feel Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Extraction of a normal wisdom tooth? Hello doctor, I would like to ask, after having my upper and lower right wisdom teeth extracted on Tuesday night, it has been four days. When I chew food on the left side, I feel a soreness in the area of the right wisdom teeth. Is this normal...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The initial healing of a tooth extraction wound takes at least 7 days. It is recommended to maintain cleanliness and take care. If there is swelling, pain, or bleeding, seek medical attention promptly. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, M...[Read More] Is It Normal to Feel Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Understanding Pain and Concerns with Dental Bridges: What You Need to Know
Occasionally, a dental bridge may cause pain? Hello Dr. Lin: After undergoing root canal treatment on my front tooth, I developed a dental abscess, and the doctor determined it was due to a root fracture, so the tooth was extracted and replaced with a bridge (the adjacent healthy...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. Soft tissue lesions typically require an experienced physician to make an initial diagnosis through direct visual examination, and may even need to be sent for pathological testing. However, since you mentioned that X-rays were taken and confirmed that there are no is...[Read More] Understanding Pain and Concerns with Dental Bridges: What You Need to Know
Can Resin Fillings Help with Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Recession?
Can dental sensitivity (gum recession) be treated with resin fillings? Hello, doctor. Recently, I had a toothache and visited a clinic where the dentist assessed that I had tooth sensitivity in my first premolar and suggested filling the sensitive area (the receded gum part). Lat...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The sensitivity symptoms caused by exposed tooth roots can indeed be managed by using certain polymer materials to cover them, thereby reducing the sensitivity of the roots to external stimuli. However, if the symptoms do not improve after the treatment, it is advisable to...[Read More] Can Resin Fillings Help with Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Recession?
Can You Undergo Orthodontics After Root Canal Treatment?
Can orthodontic treatment be performed after root canal therapy? Hello, Doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing pain in my lower left tooth (radiating to the gums). After visiting the dentist, I was told that it's a cavity in my third molar. However, tapping on it does...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. An X-ray is required to diagnose whether the first molar also has lesions. 2. If the tooth undergoing root canal treatment has intact dental structure, a temporary crown is not necessary. 3. Yes, if the surrounding tissues of the tooth are healthy, orthodontic treatment...[Read More] Can You Undergo Orthodontics After Root Canal Treatment?