Root Canal Treatment vs. Tooth Extraction: What to Do with an Infected Tooth?
Root canal treatment I recently developed an abscess on my lower left molar, and sometimes it hurts when I bite down, while other times it doesn't. I visited a periodontal specialist at a large hospital, and she recommended extracting the tooth. However, an endodontist sugge...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Miss Nini, Hello! Based on what you described, the situation seems quite serious. The worst-case scenario is a cracked tooth root, which would require extraction. I recommend seeking a second opinion at another dental clinic. If the assessment is the same, then extraction w...[Read More] Root Canal Treatment vs. Tooth Extraction: What to Do with an Infected Tooth?
Understanding Gum Issues and Dentures: Causes and Solutions
Regarding gums and dentures? Last year, I noticed a small lump on my upper jaw when I pressed it with my tongue, and it was painful when I applied pressure. I went to a clinic for an examination, and it turned out that the root canal treatment for two of my dental implants was no...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Tsai, Hello! Based on what you described, it may be periodontal disease. Further examination is necessary. Please communicate more with your physician. Thank you! Wishing you well! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry[Read More] Understanding Gum Issues and Dentures: Causes and Solutions
Gum Issues During Orthodontic Treatment: Understanding Gingival Overgrowth
Gum issues Dear Doctor, I am currently undergoing orthodontic treatment. I would like to ask: my lower teeth have become somewhat aligned after the treatment, but I have noticed that my gums seem to be hypertrophied, or the gum tissue is covering my teeth. Is this a common occurr...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is possible that during the orthodontic process, some teeth were pushed inward, causing a change in the original position of the gums related to those teeth, which may give the appearance of gum overgrowth. Additionally, it could be due to difficulty in maintaining oral hygien...[Read More] Gum Issues During Orthodontic Treatment: Understanding Gingival Overgrowth
Why Eating Hot Foods Causes Tooth Pain: Understanding Dental Sensitivity
Eating hot food can cause tooth pain? Hello Doctor, I have a dull pain in my lower left molar when eating hot food, but it doesn't hurt when consuming cold or room temperature items. I've seen the dentist twice; there was no pain when tapping on the tooth, and X-rays sh...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The two main sources of dental discomfort are the dental pulp and the periodontal tissues. If there is no pain with temperature changes or physical impact, we can rule out pulpitis. Your description of a dull ache, possibly accompanied by swelling and bleeding, may indicat...[Read More] Why Eating Hot Foods Causes Tooth Pain: Understanding Dental Sensitivity
Understanding the Five-in-One Dental Implant Procedure: Is It Right for You?
Options for Dental Implant Surgery Hello Dr. Lin, last year I had braces on my upper left 1, upper right 1, 2, and 3. Last week, while eating a chicken leg, I lost my braces and broke three teeth. I went to see Dentist A, who said that the upper left 1 is fractured but the root i...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The number and position of implants are primarily determined by the thickness and height of the bone. Additionally, in the anterior region, aesthetic considerations regarding the gums must be taken into account, which leads to a variety of treatment options. It is still re...[Read More] Understanding the Five-in-One Dental Implant Procedure: Is It Right for You?
Why Are My Teeth Shifting After Getting a Dental Crown?
After getting dentures, the adjacent three teeth have slightly tilted and protruded outward? During the root canal treatment of the right second premolar, a temporary crown was placed for about three months, and there were no issues at that time. However, after the crown was plac...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Karen, Hello! As mentioned, your teeth have shifted! There may be periodontal disease. Please return to the dentist for an examination. Make sure to communicate with your doctor. Thank you! Wishing you safety! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry[Read More] Why Are My Teeth Shifting After Getting a Dental Crown?
Understanding Gum Issues: Antibiotics and Inflammation Connection
Gum issues Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing discomfort in my gums. After an examination, no cavities were found, and the adjacent teeth are also fine; however, the swelling in my gums is quite noticeable. The doctor asked if I had a cold recently or if I had been ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Indeed, certain medications can cause gum swelling and even severe periodontal disease. However, a detailed review of your medication history with your treating physician is necessary to confirm whether the medication is the cause and how to adjust it. Thank you! Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Gum Issues: Antibiotics and Inflammation Connection
Choosing the Right Crown for Molars: Porcelain vs. Precious Metal Options
Choosing Molars Braces Due to the silver crown placed on the first upper molar during childhood having become exposed and experiencing issues such as cavities and gum recession, it needs to be redone. However, I am unsure which material is more durable for the chewing area. Which...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, typically, dental prosthetics made from precious metals are more suitable for areas with high occlusal forces, and the fit of precious metals is generally better. However, all-ceramic crowns are more aesthetically pleasing and have better biocompatibility, making them less...[Read More] Choosing the Right Crown for Molars: Porcelain vs. Precious Metal Options
Should I Get a Root Canal for My Dental Bridge Concerns?
I'm not sure whether I should undergo a root canal treatment? I am currently getting a dental bridge with four crowns because one of the crowns from my previous three-crown bridge had to be extracted due to a poorly performed root canal that led to an apical cyst and periodo...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Mr. C, Hello! Basically, it is advisable to avoid compromising the integrity of normal teeth, such as through root canal treatment or excessive grinding. Well-made dentures can actually last a long time! Otherwise, consider the situation where a poorly executed root canal l...[Read More] Should I Get a Root Canal for My Dental Bridge Concerns?
Managing Dental Anesthesia Risks for Hyperthyroid Patients
Anesthesia for tooth extraction in patients with hyperthyroidism? Hello, Doctor. My hyperthyroidism is currently under control, but I am still on medication. I discovered that I have a loose tooth that needs to be extracted due to periodontal issues. However, I am concerned about...
Dr. Zhu Guanyu Reply:
Hello, based on your physiological condition, it is recommended that you first visit our dental department for further examination, and then arrange for subsequent treatment. Thank you for your message! Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Kuan-Yu Chu, Attending Physician...[Read More] Managing Dental Anesthesia Risks for Hyperthyroid Patients
Understanding Dental Abscesses and Gum Recession: Expert Insights
Dental abscess and gum recession? Dear Dr. Lin, I am writing to consult you on two issues as follows: 1. Regarding the dental abscess: Several years ago, I had a large cavity that was treated with a filling. Recently, I noticed a black mark on the surface of the tooth and a sma...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. There is a common belief that when a tooth undergoes root canal treatment, it becomes dead and more prone to brittleness and fracture. Therefore, if the tooth is still functional, root canal treatment can be postponed. For younger patients or if the dental pulp has no...[Read More] Understanding Dental Abscesses and Gum Recession: Expert Insights
Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Why Is the Adjacent Tooth Sore?
After having my wisdom teeth removed, the tooth in front of the wisdom tooth started to ache? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the discomfort I am experiencing. I had my impacted wisdom tooth extracted on December 11th (the stitches have not been removed yet), and on Decem...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Jiang, Hello! After having your wisdom teeth extracted, if the tooth in front is starting to ache, it could be due to cavities or periodontal disease. An X-ray and a physical examination are necessary to determine the cause. Please communicate with your dentist! Thank ...[Read More] Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Why Is the Adjacent Tooth Sore?
Understanding Tooth Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Toothache issues? Hello, my lower left tooth was originally just a little itchy and slightly painful in the gums. Previously, I had a cold, and the lower left gums also hurt, but it went away after a few days, so I didn't think much of it. However, this time, after two days,...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsiao-Ting, Hello! Based on what you described, it is possible that the pain in your lower teeth is caused by cavities in your upper teeth. If there are no cavities or periodontal disease present, the pain may be referred pain from the upper teeth. Further confirmation...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Oral Mucosa Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Healing
Oral mucosa Four days ago, I used a cotton swab to clean the debris between my lower molars and the buccal mucosa, and I noticed a small wound on the mucosa that has been bleeding for four days. It bleeds whenever I touch it. Today, I consulted an oral surgeon who said there is p...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
It is likely that there is inflammation of the buccal mucosa, leading to mucosal damage and bleeding. It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon to assess the cause of the mucosal inflammation and determine appropriate treatment.[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosa Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Healing
What to Do If Your Fixed Dentures Become Loose: A Patient's Guide
How to handle a dislodged dental prosthesis? Hello doctor, a year ago I had a set of three consecutive crowns placed on my front teeth. Recently, I have noticed that the first crown on the right side feels loose (it rocks back and forth and makes a clicking sound). Can it be re-c...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Loose dentures may be due to a fracture of the internal post of the prosthesis or poor periodontal condition of the post itself. It could also be a result of wear or failure of the adhesive. It is advisable to consult a dentist for further examination and evaluation of how to pro...[Read More] What to Do If Your Fixed Dentures Become Loose: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Dental Bridge Lifespan and Replacement Needs
The lifespan of a dental bridge? Currently, the upper four front teeth are supported by a dental bridge, and the right lateral incisor is missing (ooox). What is the typical lifespan of a dental bridge like this? Under what circumstances would it need to be redone? Does each time...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. The lifespan of a dental bridge typically exceeds 5 years, and with proper maintenance, it may last 10 to 20 years. 2. Strong recommendations for replacement arise when the dental bridge is poorly fitted to the natural teeth, leading to periodontal disease or severe car...[Read More] Understanding Dental Bridge Lifespan and Replacement Needs
Understanding Swollen Gums: Causes and Concerns for Your Oral Health
Gum swelling The doctor woke up in the morning and suddenly noticed that the gum above a certain tooth was slightly red and swollen, but it was not painful and there was no bleeding, as shown in the photo. What could be the reason for this? Some online sources suggest that locali...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. Your photo suggests that the canine tooth has periodontal issues combined with root canal problems, leading to a noticeable swelling at the gum line. Further evaluation, including X-rays and pulp vitality tests, is necessary to provide a diagnosis. 2. "Localized gu...[Read More] Understanding Swollen Gums: Causes and Concerns for Your Oral Health
Bridges vs Implants: Best Options for Missing Teeth Near Wisdom Tooth
Should I get a dental bridge or dental implants for the two missing teeth in front of my wisdom teeth? I have two missing teeth in front of my wisdom tooth, which were connected by a bridge of four teeth. Now, due to periodontal treatment, all my crowns have been removed. However...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Yong, Hello! (Due to the treatment of periodontal disease, all dentures and crowns have been removed.) Basically, teeth affected by periodontal disease are not suitable for use as abutments unless the treatment is successful (and the teeth are stable). Otherwise, they m...[Read More] Bridges vs Implants: Best Options for Missing Teeth Near Wisdom Tooth
Should You Remove a Dental Bridge for Further Examination?
Does a dental bridge need to be removed for examination? Recently, I have been experiencing pain when biting down on three teeth that are part of a dental bridge, and I also feel sensitivity when drinking cold water. I went to the clinic for an examination, and after an X-ray, th...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
If there are no apical lesions or apical inflammation visible on the X-ray, percussion should not cause pain. However, it is not possible to determine whether there is caries within the abutment teeth of the dental bridge from the X-ray. Additionally, the marginal integrity of th...[Read More] Should You Remove a Dental Bridge for Further Examination?
Addressing Bad Odor Around Braces: Causes and Solutions
There is a foul odor around the braces? The second to last tooth on the bottom row underwent root canal treatment and has braces. Recently, while using dental floss, I noticed a foul odor from that area. I went to the clinic for an X-ray, but no issues were found. The doctor ment...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you described, it is likely that the lack of thorough cleaning of the molars is the cause. You mentioned using dental floss, which generally removes plaque from the interproximal surfaces between teeth. However, cleaning beneath these surfaces may re...[Read More] Addressing Bad Odor Around Braces: Causes and Solutions