Understanding Tooth Decay Repair: Root Canal and Regeneration Options
Exposed dental filling material? Dear Dr. Lin, I previously had a cavity filled, but one day that tooth suddenly hurt a lot and continued to hurt for several days. Afterward, it only hurt occasionally. When I visited the dentist, they told me that I would need a root canal or ev...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If surgery is confirmed, it is recommended to perform a CT scan of the head and neck to assess the condition! Dental regeneration is currently still in the animal testing phase, so it is advisable to primarily use traditional treatment methods! Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, De...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay Repair: Root Canal and Regeneration Options
Managing Tooth Decay Pain: Insights on Anesthesia and Treatment Options
Even with anesthesia, you may still feel pain when getting a cavity filled? Hello, Doctor. I have a wisdom tooth partially erupted at the back of my lower right jaw, creating a groove between it and the molar, which causes food debris to get trapped. Due to improper cleaning, bot...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the wisdom tooth is not extracted, the second molar in front cannot be properly treated, so the prerequisite is to first remove the wisdom tooth. The doctor has explained that if there is pain during this period, you should return to him for treatment, indicating that t...[Read More] Managing Tooth Decay Pain: Insights on Anesthesia and Treatment Options
Can a Dental Bridge Be Partially Removed to Preserve One Tooth?
Can a dental bridge be partially removed to retain one tooth? Hello, I would like to ask if I need to remake the crown on the first tooth of my dental bridge after the third tooth decayed and was removed, leading to the replacement of the two adjacent teeth with implants. Current...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to remake the prosthesis for easier cleaning, to prevent potential issues with the implant in the future, which would be counterproductive. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Can a Dental Bridge Be Partially Removed to Preserve One Tooth?
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 Decay: Why Your Filling Fell Out and Treatment Pain
The dental filling fell out, and the treatment process was quite uncomfortable? Hello, Doctor. I recently discovered a small cavity in my tooth where a previous filling had come off. I went for a consultation three days after noticing it, and I have a few questions. 1. I had a ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you are at the same clinic, please ask the physician to retrieve the previous X-rays for comparison with the current ones. This will help determine whether the condition was not detected previously or if it is a new issue that has developed in the past month. The necess...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: Why Your Filling Fell Out and Treatment Pain
Temporary Solutions for Tooth Decay While Awaiting Dental Implants
Temporarily unable to get a dental filling and worried about continued decay of the tooth root? Several months ago, my upper right incisor's temporary crown fell off. After reviewing the CT scan, the dentist informed me that the tooth root was decayed to the point that even ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The method you mentioned in the second paragraph refers to root-end filling surgery combined with periodontal bone regeneration surgery. However, it is essential to consider the condition of the affected tooth and the surrounding destruction. After a thorough evaluation of...[Read More] Temporary Solutions for Tooth Decay While Awaiting Dental Implants
Is Microsurgery the Only Option for Incomplete Root Canals?
If the root canal treatment does not reach the apex, is it necessary to perform a microscopic root canal procedure? After experiencing tooth decay in my molars in 2019, I underwent root canal treatment and received a crown at a certain clinic. After the crown was placed, I still ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you return to the original clinic (the one where you had the root canal and dentures done) and have the original dentist address your concerns until you are satisfied with the outcome. If the clinic is unable to resolve the issue, please request a re...[Read More] Is Microsurgery the Only Option for Incomplete Root Canals?
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Filling Loss: Causes and Remedies
Filling dislodgement? Two weeks ago, I discovered that the filling between two of my front teeth had fallen out. Drinking cold water caused significant pain, but the pain subsided after two days, and I no longer experienced discomfort when consuming hot or cold beverages. However...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Based on your description (there is indeed a small swelling at the root of the tooth), it may have developed into chronic pulpitis. To achieve a complete cure, it is recommended to undergo root canal treatment, as relying solely on anti-inflammatory medication and mouthwas...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Filling Loss: Causes and Remedies
Managing Early Tooth Decay in Front Teeth: Tips for Relief
Cavities in the incisors? During a recent dental check-up, the dentist informed me that there is a spot on my front tooth that may be prone to cavities due to some calcification. As time has passed, I may have become a bit negligent. Recently, when drinking water, I've notic...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you purchase commercially available high-fluoride toothpaste (greater than 1000 ppm) to help slow down the demineralization of your teeth. Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Managing Early Tooth Decay in Front Teeth: Tips for Relief
Do I Need a Crown for My Front Tooth? Dental Care Insights
What about front tooth dentures? Hello, I had a cavity in my left front tooth that was filled over 20 years ago, and the filling is quite extensive. Recently, I've noticed that it may not hold up much longer. Do I definitely need to get a crown for my front tooth, or can it ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. If the extent of tooth decay is too severe to be filled, it is recommended to use a crown to protect the tooth. There are many materials available for crowns, so it is advisable to consult with a dentist for further discussion. 2. It is recommended to rinse your mouth thorough...[Read More] Do I Need a Crown for My Front Tooth? Dental Care Insights
How to Properly Clean Your Dental Night Guard to Prevent Cavities
Cleaning of occlusal splints? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption. I would like to ask you, I always clean my teeth before wearing my occlusal splint, but in the morning when I clean the splint, I only rinse it with water and occasionally brush it with a soft-bristle t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: The occlusal splint is originally a consumable item, and it is recommended to replace it every year. The occurrence of dental caries is due to multiple contributing factors; it is not solely because the occlusal splint is unclean that cavities develop. Sincerely, Lin Chia-...[Read More] How to Properly Clean Your Dental Night Guard to Prevent Cavities
Do You Need a Follow-Up After Dental Filling? Understanding Your Options
Do I need to have a follow-up appointment after getting a cavity filled? Dear Doctor, previously, I had a small corner of my lower right second molar that chipped off. The dentist assessed that I needed to have my impacted wisdom tooth extracted before any treatment could be done...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Miss Chen Yi-Ting: To determine whether the chipped corner is caused by tooth decay, it is important to assess if there is any softening or bacterial infection present in the tooth. If decay is present, it must be thoroughly cleaned before proceeding with either a temporar...[Read More] Do You Need a Follow-Up After Dental Filling? Understanding Your Options
Understanding Tooth Decay: When Your Dentist Can't Find the Problem
The issue of dental caries? Recently, I have been feeling two very noticeable grooves on my molar, which feel sharp enough to cut my tongue when I run it over them. I can also see them in the mirror. Occasionally, I experience a dull pain when chewing food. I suspect it might be ...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Miss Xiaoling: Hello! It is best to go to a medical center for a detailed examination! Take care! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Tingfang, Director of Dentistry[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: When Your Dentist Can't Find the Problem
Understanding Gum Swelling: Causes, Treatments, and When to Extract Teeth
Gum swelling Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my tooth decay, which has progressed very deep, and now my gums are swollen. I have seen a dentist who prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, but the swelling did not go down. I went to the emergency department of a large ho...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Ms. Liang: Hello! I have two questions! 1. Is the cavity too deep, having eroded to the nerve, causing the nerve to become necrotic and infected, resulting in swelling? 2. Does this tooth have periodontal disease, leading to severe infection and swelling? Treatment is possib...[Read More] Understanding Gum Swelling: Causes, Treatments, and When to Extract Teeth
Urgent Dental Issues: Understanding Gum Pain and Tooth Decay
Urgent - Gum Issues Hello, doctor. I have two cavities in the back of my upper teeth that are down to just a little bit left. My current symptoms are as follows: 1. The gums around the affected teeth are swollen and painful, and this has lasted for over two days. I feel like the ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Mei: 1. It may be due to severe cavities causing periodontal inflammation. 2. It is recommended to see a dentist immediately to prevent the residual root infection from progressing to cellulitis. 3. Extraction of the severely decayed tooth may be necessary to eliminate ...[Read More] Urgent Dental Issues: Understanding Gum Pain and Tooth Decay
Can Untreated Root Canal Issues Lead to Oral Cancer?
Will untreated root canal disease lead to oral cancer? Hello Doctor, 1. Recently, my dentist informed me that one of my teeth, which has previously undergone root canal treatment, has developed a pathological condition in the root. The tooth has a secondary cavity and the root ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. M: 1. A root canal treatment that leads to a reinfection at the apex of the tooth root and decay does not result in oral cancer, but it is still advisable to seek treatment promptly to prevent the infection from spreading. 2. If the difficulty of retreating the root can...[Read More] Can Untreated Root Canal Issues Lead to Oral Cancer?
Understanding Tooth Decay: Treatment Options and Concerns for Sensitive Teeth
Cavity-related issues? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about my dental situation. I had orthodontic treatment in high school, but as I grew older, my teeth became very sensitive and I developed severe cavities. The dentist said that the cavity in my upper right second mola...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Anonymous: If the cavity is very deep and has caused spontaneous tooth pain, it is recommended to undergo root canal treatment. Root canal treatment is not an invasive procedure, and if heart disease or endocrine disorders are well-controlled, there will be no complicat...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay: Treatment Options and Concerns for Sensitive Teeth
Does Napping After Meals Increase the Risk of Cavities?
Does napping after meals increase the risk of cavities? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking a nap for about one to two hours after a meal increases the risk of tooth decay during that time. Of course, I will brush my teeth afterward.
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, Anonymous: Brushing and rinsing your mouth after a meal can help reduce the oral environment's acidity and remove dental plaque, which can lower the risk of cavities. During napping, saliva production decreases, and the mouth's self-cleaning ability diminishes, m...[Read More] Does Napping After Meals Increase the Risk of Cavities?
Discomfort After Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
Discomfort after root canal treatment? Due to severe tooth decay, I underwent root canal treatment and had the nerve removed. After multiple visits to the dentist, I completed the procedure for getting a dental prosthesis. I have also had two follow-up appointments, but up until ...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Miss, Hello! You can seek assistance from an endodontist for root canal treatment. Take care! Wishing you peace and success in everything! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry[Read More] Discomfort After Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
Understanding Root Cavities: Treatment Options and Oral Care Tips
Root caries Hello Dr. Huang, recently I've been experiencing some sensitivity and pain in my teeth when biting down on hard objects. After visiting a dental clinic for an X-ray, I found out that I have a cavity in the root of my tooth. The cavity is quite deep. About half a ...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Miss Xiao Chen, Hello! (Root caries) Typically, this occurs in older individuals due to gum recession and inadequate oral hygiene. Therefore, maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial! It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally after meals within...[Read More] Understanding Root Cavities: Treatment Options and Oral Care Tips