Understanding the Bass Technique for Kindergarten Dental Hygiene
The Bass brushing technique for preschool children? Hello Dr. Huang: I am the school nurse at a public kindergarten, and I would like to ask you some questions regarding the Bass brushing technique. Over ten years ago, when our kindergarten started promoting the Bass brushing met...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Joan, Hello. The Bass brushing technique was promoted in elementary and kindergarten schools over 20 years ago. It uses this dry brushing method, which does not cause issues with water usage, slipping, or orderliness. Stomach acid can naturally kill bacteria, and swallowing...[Read More] Understanding the Bass Technique for Kindergarten Dental Hygiene
Understanding Root Canals: Weighing Risks and Benefits for Your Teeth
Tooth root issues? Hello, doctor. I am twenty-five years old. In April, I went to a private dental clinic for a filling and discovered that three of my molars had severe decay. The dentist recommended root canal treatment. However, due to the high cost and my lack of understandin...
Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan Reply:
Dear user, based on your description, you have three cavities in your molars, and after filling them, you are experiencing sensitivity to cold water. It is recommended that you monitor the symptoms of tooth sensitivity for any improvement. If you experience persistent pain after ...[Read More] Understanding Root Canals: Weighing Risks and Benefits for Your Teeth
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Duration of Gum Inflammation
Tooth sensitivity I have been experiencing sensitivity and pain in my upper left first molar whenever I take the first sip of a cold drink for the past month (it doesn't hurt after that). Additionally, when I start rinsing my mouth or brushing with mint toothpaste, the area ...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
It would be best to have a thorough examination, as the nerve of a neighboring tooth may mistakenly perceive pain in the affected tooth. As for whether there is gum inflammation, it is still necessary to consult a dentist for an evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Duration of Gum Inflammation
Chronic Oral Ulcers: Seeking Solutions for SLE Patients
Oral ulceration persisting for a long time? Dear Dr. Tseng, I have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and am currently being followed up at the Hsinchu branch of National Taiwan University Hospital by Dr. Luo Wei-yung. I have been experiencing oral ulcers for nearly two years. T...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello: I have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and I have been experiencing oral ulcers for nearly two years. If these ulcers are recurrent, it may be due to an abnormal autoimmune response affecting the oral mucosa caused by the autoimmune system. You might consider applying ...[Read More] Chronic Oral Ulcers: Seeking Solutions for SLE Patients
Effective Home Remedies to Remove Yellow Tartar from Teeth Safely
Dental calculus Hello, Dr. Tseng. I would like to ask how to clean and remove tartar from my teeth at home without damaging them. PS: 1. I do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew betel nut. 2. I have a regular brushing habit in the morning and evening. 3. I use dental floss after me...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello: Over time, teeth can develop yellow deposits, which are known as dental calculus. This is primarily due to food debris or bacteria on the tooth surfaces or in between the teeth that gradually calcify and harden. You can visit a dental clinic for a professional cleaning to ...[Read More] Effective Home Remedies to Remove Yellow Tartar from Teeth Safely
Is Fluoride Gel Covered by Health Insurance in Taiwan?
Is there no health insurance coverage for fluoropolymer? I went to the dentist due to a toothache, and the doctor determined that it might be caused by brushing too hard, leading to tooth sensitivity. They recommended purchasing fluoride gel to apply at home. However, it costs 28...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello: The toothache led to a dental visit, where the diagnosis was that brushing too hard caused tooth sensitivity, possibly due to enamel wear on the crown of the tooth, resulting in exposed dentin, or gingival recession exposing the tooth root. If the sensitivity is not severe...[Read More] Is Fluoride Gel Covered by Health Insurance in Taiwan?
How to Remove Brown Stains from Teeth: Tips and Recommendations
Dental discoloration Dear Dr. Tseng, Hello, I have brown stains on the inner side of my lower teeth (not at the tooth/gum junction). After getting a dental cleaning, I learned that my health insurance does not cover that area, and the doctor mentioned that I would need to underg...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello: The brown stains on the inner side of the lower teeth are generally due to extrinsic staining, which can be caused by pigmented beverages such as tea, coffee, and red wine. If the staining is not severe, it can be removed using polishing powder or a polishing paste. Howeve...[Read More] How to Remove Brown Stains from Teeth: Tips and Recommendations
Understanding and Treating Dark Stains on Children's Front Teeth
The front teeth appear dark, resembling pigment deposition? Hello, my son is 12 years old. Since he was young (during the primary teeth stage), he has had a problem with his front teeth that resembles pigmentation deposits, similar to what some people have from consuming tea, cof...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Xiao Fei: Foods with pigments, such as soy sauce and chocolate, can potentially cause pigmentation deposits. Without examining the patient, it's difficult to determine the cause. It's best to seek local medical treatment.[Read More] Understanding and Treating Dark Stains on Children's Front Teeth
Gel vs. Paste Toothpaste: Which is Better for Your Teeth?
Types of Toothpaste Hello, doctor: Could you please explain the differences in effects on teeth between gel and paste toothpaste? Thank you!
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello: Both gel-like and paste-like consistencies are bases for toothpaste, and the choice depends on personal preference, with no significant difference. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of...[Read More] Gel vs. Paste Toothpaste: Which is Better for Your Teeth?
Oral Care for Stroke Patients: Tips for Teeth Cleaning and Mouthwash Use
Dental care for stroke patients? Doctor: Hello, if a family member has had a stroke and is unable to brush their teeth independently, how can we clean their teeth? Additionally, is it necessary to use fluoride mouthwash? Are there any side effects associated with using mouthwash?...
Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan Reply:
Dear online friend, Based on your description, here are my responses: 1. If you are unable to brush your teeth due to a stroke, it is recommended to have a family member assist you in brushing your teeth to maintain oral hygiene. If you are bedridden or unable to cooperate, fam...[Read More] Oral Care for Stroke Patients: Tips for Teeth Cleaning and Mouthwash Use
Essential Guide to Dental Fillings and Teeth Whitening Solutions
Anterior tooth restoration 1. Doctor, I have a big cavity in the middle of my upper front tooth! What should I do about it? 2. Also, there's a small cavity in the gap of my lower right tooth. Can that be filled? 3. On the lower right side, two of my teeth are broken in h...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: The treatment of all cavities depends on their type, location, and the reasons for their formation. It is recommended that you visit a dental clinic for an actual examination and consult with a dentist for further advice.[Read More] Essential Guide to Dental Fillings and Teeth Whitening Solutions
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: When to Seek Dental Care
Intermittent toothache? Hello, Doctor. Due to my studies in the United States, I can only visit the dentist in Taiwan during the summer break each year. Last summer, I had a filling done on a molar that had previously fallen out, and everything else was in good condition. I occas...
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Tooth sensitivity may be due to the following possibilities: 1. Gum recession leading to exposed tooth roots causing sensitivity; 2. Enamel wear; 3. Dental caries. For conditions 1 and 2, using desensitizing toothpaste (fluoride toothpaste) may help improve the situation. If it i...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: When to Seek Dental Care
Understanding Oral Mucosa Shedding: Causes and Solutions
Mucosal sloughing of the oral cavity? Hello: 1. Since using the whitening toothpaste containing potassium nitrate for about a month, I have noticed significant shedding of the oral mucosa after brushing my teeth (the white mucosa is visible when I open my mouth, and when I lick...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is your question along with some advice: After using whitening toothpaste, there is noticeable sloughing of the oral mucosa. However, if you shorten the brushing time or use plain water for brushing, this phenomenon does not occur, which ma...[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosa Shedding: Causes and Solutions
How to Manage Cavities in Children Before Dental Treatment
Cavities Hello, doctor. I have a 6-year-old child with a cavity, and one of the molars has lost about 1/4 of its structure. Due to certain circumstances, we may need 1-2 months before we can go to the hospital for treatment. What methods can we use to slow down the progression of...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Hello Jon: To delay tooth decay, you can use toothpaste containing fluoride, minimize the intake of sweets and sugary drinks, and rinse your mouth or clean your teeth after each meal. However, it is crucial to visit a dental clinic as soon as possible to assess whether it is the ...[Read More] How to Manage Cavities in Children Before Dental Treatment
Understanding Gum Recession Symptoms After Resin Filling: What to Do?
Symptoms after filling with resin for gum recession? Hello, Doctor. My symptoms are as follows: I have gum recession at the outer edge of the root of my left first molar. Six months ago, I had a resin filling done, and I did not experience any issues while eating or brushing my t...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: In areas where the cavity is deeper, there may be sensitivity right after the filling. You can observe it for a while, and if there is no improvement, consider consulting another dentist. However, if the examination shows that the filling is fine and you still feel sensiti...[Read More] Understanding Gum Recession Symptoms After Resin Filling: What to Do?
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Work: Causes and Solutions
Molar teeth Hello, Doctor. In late July of this year, the filling between my upper left first and second molars, which had been done a long time ago, fell out. I went to the dentist and had it refilled. Since then, those two teeth (and even the adjacent one) have become extremely...
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Hello: If the dental filling is made of light-cured resin, many patients may experience sensitivity issues after the procedure. In some cases, this may improve over time. However, if gum recession leads to exposed tooth roots, patients may experience sensitivity and pain. Sensody...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Work: Causes and Solutions
The Proper Way to Brush Your Teeth: Tips for Optimal Oral Health
What is the correct way to brush your teeth? Hello, advertisements or toothpaste packaging often mention that using the correct brushing technique can lead to various benefits. So, what exactly is the correct brushing technique? (For example, how many times a day, how long each t...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
The correct timing for brushing your teeth is after each meal. Therefore, strictly speaking, you should brush your teeth as many times as you eat in a day. There is no specific time limit for each brushing session, but you should avoid brushing too quickly or too forcefully. For ...[Read More] The Proper Way to Brush Your Teeth: Tips for Optimal Oral Health
Understanding Enamel Erosion: Causes, Effects, and Treatment Options
Demineralization of enamel I noticed a dark brown discoloration on my teeth about a year or two ago, and recently it has become more severe, particularly on my front teeth and the two teeth below them. Could this be dental enamel erosion? I've heard that enamel erosion canno...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following suggestions: If the upper and lower incisors appear dark brown and have a rough surface, and if they are sensitive to heat or touch, it may indicate dental erosion of the enam...[Read More] Understanding Enamel Erosion: Causes, Effects, and Treatment Options
Understanding Loose Teeth: Causes, Treatments, and Dental Care Tips
Loose teeth I would like to ask the doctor a few questions. Two days ago, after my dental cleaning, the dentist diagnosed me with gingivitis. Over the past few days, I have noticed that a few of my teeth are loose. The dentist couldn't feel the looseness by hand, but I can f...
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Hello: 1. The examination for periodontal disease must be conducted using a special periodontal probe. If the teeth exhibit mobility, it indicates that the supporting alveolar bone around the teeth has been compromised, which is a sign of periodontal disease. 2. Complete periodon...[Read More] Understanding Loose Teeth: Causes, Treatments, and Dental Care Tips
Understanding Intermittent Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
Tooth sensitivity? Hello, Doctor. Recently, over the past 1-2 weeks, I've been experiencing intermittent sensitivity in my upper right molar when chewing. Sometimes I feel it, and sometimes I don't. When I'm not eating, I don't have any particular discomfort w...
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Hello: It is possible that enamel wear has occurred, exposing the dentin structure of the teeth. Applying desensitizing agents or using desensitizing toothpaste may help improve the condition. Dr. Yang Zhiren, Director of Dentistry at Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Execu...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions