Understanding Gum Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Healing Time
Gum pain issues? Hello Doctor: I visited the dentist the day before the Lunar New Year because I had pain in my lower right front gums for a month. After examination, the doctor diagnosed it as gingivitis caused by food debris trapped in the gums. He used sharp instruments to cle...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Miss Ruo Ruo: 1. If your gums are painful, it indicates that the gum inflammation has not fully resolved. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for further examination by a dentist. 2. The wounds from gingivitis typically take about 3 to 4 days to graduall...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Healing Time
Understanding Gum Pain After Dental Cleaning: Is It Normal?
Dental cleaning and gum recession? A few days ago, I went to the dentist due to tooth pain. The doctor informed me that I had gingivitis and performed a cleaning. After the cleaning, I noticed that my gums were quite sore, and they still hurt. Is this normal? How many days will i...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Sensitivity and discomfort after teeth cleaning usually resolve within a week. If it persists, it is advisable to return for an examination to check for any other irreversible issues. To assess changes in tooth length or gum recession, X-rays or intraoral photographs taken...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pain After Dental Cleaning: Is It Normal?
Dealing with Tooth Pain After Failed Root Canal Treatment
The molar was improperly filled by the dentist, and the nerve was not completely cleaned out? About a year ago, I went to a dentist because I had a deep cavity in one of my molars. The dentist performed a root canal and filled the tooth. However, this month I started experiencing...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Toothache: If you have already undergone root canal treatment but the filling material has come loose, it is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination and assessment. The dentist will check for any cracks in the treated tooth. If there are no cracks, it i...[Read More] Dealing with Tooth Pain After Failed Root Canal Treatment
Understanding Gum Issues: Red Spots and Bleeding While Brushing
Issues between the teeth and the gums? Hello, Doctor. Tonight while brushing my teeth, I noticed two spots that look a bit red between my teeth and gums, and there seems to be some bleeding, but I don't taste any blood. I would like to ask if this could be periodontal diseas...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Mei: Based on the description above, it seems more like chronic gingivitis, where brushing can easily cause bleeding, but there is no significant discomfort. It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule and avoid staying up late, ensure proper oral hygiene, and have...[Read More] Understanding Gum Issues: Red Spots and Bleeding While Brushing
Understanding Jaw Displacement: Causes and Treatment Options
Perceived jaw displacement? Hello Dr. Lin, my wife has recently been experiencing pain when she sleeps with her head tilted to the left, as she feels her jaw shifts to the left and causes pain that wakes her up. Could this indicate a problem with her temporomandibular joint (TMJ)...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to clarify the timing of the pain (how long has it been occurring? Is the pain constant or intermittent?), and the cause (have there been any accidents, falls, etc.? Or have you recently undergone dental treatment?). Is Zhongshan Hospital a dental facility?...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Displacement: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Pain and Swelling After Root Canal Treatment: A Patient's Guide
Root canal treatment for maxillary abscess and pain? Hello Doctor, currently I am undergoing root canal treatment on my right lateral incisor. After the first session, once the anesthesia wore off, the tooth was extremely painful (even more painful than before the root canal trea...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Administering stimulation or medication during treatment may indeed cause the abscess to swell and hurt. It is strongly recommended to complete the treatment of the currently affected tooth first and observe for 1 to 3 months before considering root canal treatment for ano...[Read More] Understanding Pain and Swelling After Root Canal Treatment: A Patient's Guide
Is It Normal to Have Eating Difficulties After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
It is difficult to eat after having wisdom teeth removed? I had my wisdom teeth removed on February 2nd. Since they were impacted, there was cutting and stitching involved. As of today, February 4th, I am still unable to eat normally. Whenever there is any pressure on the extract...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The wound healing time is at least one week. It is recommended to primarily consume liquid, high-calorie, and nutrient-rich foods, and to avoid hot, spicy, and irritating foods. Additionally, monitor for any signs of fever or pus formation. If there are any urgent situatio...[Read More] Is It Normal to Have Eating Difficulties After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Care: Cleaning Tips and Concerns
Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction? Hello, doctor. I had my wisdom tooth extracted yesterday, and I received stitches. Today, I am no longer in pain, and there is no bleeding or noticeable swelling. I brush my teeth after eating, but the stitched area is very clo...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: You can use a gauze pad soaked in mouthwash to gently wipe the molar. Avoid pulling or excessively cleaning the wound area and the sutured area.[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Care: Cleaning Tips and Concerns
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Pain After Biting Hard Objects
After biting down on chopsticks, there is a dull pain and sensitivity to hot and cold? Hello, Doctor: Twenty years ago, my upper right incisor was struck by my lower right canine while biting into food, causing significant pain and slight mobility with some inward displacement. A...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Miss MiMi: 1. Generally, it may just be an injury to the periodontal ligament, but if there is a tooth fracture, it could affect the dental pulp. 2. If the tooth continues to be sensitive to hot and cold, it may indicate pulpitis; it is recommended to consult with a dental ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Pain After Biting Hard Objects
Fixing Issues with Porcelain Crowns: Addressing Bite and Speech Problems
I had four all-ceramic crowns placed on my front teeth (2/2), but two of them do not make contact with the lower teeth, causing air to escape while speaking? A few months ago, I developed cracks in my front teeth, and I accidentally bit down on a metal chopstick, resulting in dam...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Before it is permanently bonded, there is still an opportunity to make adjustments to the shape and color. It is recommended to discuss this with the original dentist, as it may have been intentionally designed to avoid occlusion, thereby reducing the risk of fracturing ag...[Read More] Fixing Issues with Porcelain Crowns: Addressing Bite and Speech Problems
Root Canal Treatment vs. Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know
Issues related to root canal treatment and wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor: I have been struggling with discomfort in my dental occlusion recently. I first visited a dentist who suggested that it might be a periodontal issue. I took two courses of antibiotics (three days ea...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Tooth extraction and root canal treatment are both irreversible invasive procedures. It is advisable to first identify the underlying cause before proceeding. If pain can be managed with medication, it is best to control it with drugs initially. If you prefer to avoid extr...[Read More] Root Canal Treatment vs. Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know
How to Safely Visit the Dentist During COVID-19: Tips for Cavity Concerns
Regarding dental caries? Hello, doctor. I have a question. Due to the recent surge in the pandemic, if I schedule an appointment to see the dentist as the first patient of the day, can I avoid contracting the virus? I have discovered a cavity, but I'm still waiting for my va...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Xiao Gao: Dental clinics should have appropriate infection control measures in place. Both the dentist and the assistant should wear masks and gloves. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain or discomfort, you should seek treatment immediately. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, De...[Read More] How to Safely Visit the Dentist During COVID-19: Tips for Cavity Concerns
Understanding Facial Pain Near the Nose: Is It Related to a Cyst?
Pressing on the cheek near the left nasal bridge feels sore and soft? Hello Doctor, about a year ago during my root canal treatment, the doctor informed me that there was a cyst issue above my left molar. They reinforced and re-performed the root canal treatment to prevent bacter...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Vivian: 1. A cyst can be considered as an extension of a dental root canal infection that spreads to the bone surrounding the apex of the tooth, resulting in bone destruction and the formation of a cyst. 2. If you feel discomfort when pressing on the area near the left ...[Read More] Understanding Facial Pain Near the Nose: Is It Related to a Cyst?
Can Orthodontic Treatment Cause Nerve Damage in Misaligned Teeth?
The probability of nerve damage during orthodontic treatment to reposition teeth? I have a molar baby tooth that never fell out since childhood. When I was a junior in college, I experienced severe tooth pain and went to the dentist. An X-ray revealed that the permanent tooth was...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It should not be the case. "The teeth still hurt when touched, and there is pain when consuming cold or hot foods" indicates that the pulp is still active and in an inflammatory state.[Read More] Can Orthodontic Treatment Cause Nerve Damage in Misaligned Teeth?
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Common Concerns and When to See a Dentist
Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction? I would like to ask about my experience after having my wisdom teeth removed. The doctor mentioned that the stitches would be taken out in two weeks. Today is the fifth day, and it seems that one of the stitches came out yester...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The wound from the lower wisdom tooth is usually sutured with 2 to 3 stitches. If the wound is currently not painful or bleeding excessively, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment in a week to remove the remaining stitches. Unless there are strong indicat...[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Common Concerns and When to See a Dentist
Can Root Canal Treatments Be Done Simultaneously? Pain Management Insights
Root canal treatment Thank you for taking the time to respond, Doctor. I would like to ask if it is possible to perform root canals on both my upper right first molar and lower right first molar at the same time? Additionally, could you explain why the affected area is very painf...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to treat each tooth individually to ensure the success of each treatment and to avoid confusion regarding pain. Root canal therapy is an invasive procedure, and pain is a normal response. If there are symptoms of heart discomfort or chest tightness and sh...[Read More] Can Root Canal Treatments Be Done Simultaneously? Pain Management Insights
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do If Stitches Come Loose?
Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction? I would like to ask about my experience after having my wisdom teeth removed. The doctor mentioned that the stitches would be removed in two weeks. Today is the fifth day, and it seems that one of the stitches came out yesterda...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If there is currently no pain or excessive bleeding, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment to remove the stitches in one week. There is no need to add another stitch now, as it would only increase the pain at the wound site.[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do If Stitches Come Loose?
Understanding TMJ Disorders After Facial Injury: Symptoms and Solutions
I have developed temporomandibular joint disorder due to an impact injury? Hello Doctor, On December 6, 2023, I was playing basketball and someone accidentally hit my left cheek (possibly near the jaw area). Since then, I have experienced a clicking sensation when I open my mout...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Avi, 1. Any external force that can cause displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) cartilage, or even tearing of the joint head, can lead to inflammation and pain in the TMJ. 2. If you experience difficulty opening or closing your mouth, or if you feel pain in ...[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders After Facial Injury: Symptoms and Solutions
Persistent White Mark on Gum After Injury: Is It Normal?
After the gums were cut by food at the lower inner area, there has been a persistent white mark? Hello, 11 days ago, I injured the lower part of my gum on the inside while eating a fried dough stick (I'm sorry, I don't know what that area is called). The injury is marke...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Guo: 1. The scar tissue that may be repaired will gradually return to normal in about 3 to 6 months. 2. It is recommended that if you suspect vitiligo, you should consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Persistent White Mark on Gum After Injury: Is It Normal?
Understanding Antibiotic Use After Dental Procedures: Key Questions Answered
Not completing the prescribed course of antibiotics? Hello Doctor, on January 9th, I visited the dentist due to swollen and painful gums, and I was diagnosed with gingivitis caused by an erupting wisdom tooth. The doctor asked the pharmacist to prescribe medication for me, but ne...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, Miss Kang: 1. General gum swelling and pain are caused by oral bacterial infections, so the prescribed antibiotics should be taken until completed. 2. Antibiotic resistance typically develops only with long-term use of antibiotics. 3. Taking antibiotics before wisdom toot...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic Use After Dental Procedures: Key Questions Answered