Water Laser Periodontal Treatment vs. Flap Surgery: Key Differences Explained
Water laser periodontal treatment Hello, Doctor: During my visit to the clinic, the doctor mentioned that my periodontal disease is currently in a moderate to severe state and suggested the use of a new technique called "water laser periodontal therapy." I would like to...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
In cases of moderate to severe periodontal disease, in addition to traditional flap surgery for periodontal treatment, there is also laser periodontal therapy available. However, traditional periodontal treatment should be the primary consideration. It is recommended to consult w...[Read More] Water Laser Periodontal Treatment vs. Flap Surgery: Key Differences Explained
Managing Post-Filling Bite Pain: Solutions and Insights
Post-operative occlusal pain after dental filling? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about solutions for occlusal pain after dental fillings. On January 18, I had a filling done for the last tooth on the lower left side after the filling material fell out. After the filling, I ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you experience "pain" after a dental filling, it may indicate that the dental pulp is injured. If the pain persists for more than a month, root canal treatment is one of the options to consider. If you feel "sensitivity" or "tingling," it c...[Read More] Managing Post-Filling Bite Pain: Solutions and Insights
Understanding Gum Abscess and Swelling: Dental Care Insights
Gum abscess, gum swelling? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. When I was a child, I fell and broke my front tooth. I underwent root canal treatment but did not have a post or crown placed. Recently, I discovered a small abscess on that tooth. I squeezed it, but it keep...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: As you mentioned, the endodontist has scheduled a follow-up appointment for you at the end of the month to assess your condition. It has been noted that the pathology of that tooth has actually been present for some time, so it is recommended that you keep the appointment....[Read More] Understanding Gum Abscess and Swelling: Dental Care Insights
Common Questions About Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedures and Concerns
Questions about wisdom tooth extraction? Hello Doctor: 1. What are the general steps for wisdom tooth extraction? Is it X-ray --- explanation of the surgical procedure --- anesthesia --- tooth extraction --- suturing --- postoperative recovery? If the doctor did not follow the ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. Taking an X-ray before wisdom tooth extraction is essential for assessing the difficulty of the extraction and the size of the postoperative wound. Generally, unless the wisdom tooth is deeply impacted, the X-ray can clearly show the position of the tooth. 2. It is recommended...[Read More] Common Questions About Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedures and Concerns
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Burning Sensation After Dental Work
Tooth sensitivity and burning sensation in the cheek after dental filling? Initially, I felt an unusual sensation around the gums of my lower front teeth, specifically 3 to 4 teeth. Biting into things would elicit a strange feeling that wasn't exactly painful but was bothers...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. After dental cleaning, if there was a significant buildup of tartar, the teeth may exhibit sensitivity symptoms once the cleaning is completed. 2. If sensitivity occurs after dental cleaning and subsequent filling of cavities, an X-ray should be taken to assess whether the ori...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Burning Sensation After Dental Work
Should You Fill a Small Cavity Between Your Teeth? Expert Opinions
Is there a small cavity in the gap between my teeth? Should I get it filled? There is a small visible cavity on the left side of the gap next to my left front tooth. I previously had an X-ray taken at Dental Clinic A, where the dentist said the cavity is not large and does not re...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: There are many types of dental caries. If a dentist observes that it is arrested caries, under the current conservative treatment philosophy, they may recommend not treating it and simply monitoring it. However, in the anterior region, which is aesthetically important, som...[Read More] Should You Fill a Small Cavity Between Your Teeth? Expert Opinions
Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed Before Starting Denosumab Treatment?
Is it necessary to have wisdom teeth extracted before using denosumab? I am a patient with a giant cell tumor of bone, and I had surgery on February 3rd. I am planning to start denosumab to reduce the recurrence rate. One of the side effects of denosumab is osteonecrosis of the j...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If your wisdom tooth is only partially erupted and is partially covered by bone or gum tissue, that area can easily accumulate debris, leading to bacterial infection. Therefore, the dentist recommends that you have the wisdom tooth extracted. Bisphosphonate medications can...[Read More] Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed Before Starting Denosumab Treatment?
Persistent Pain in Tooth Before Wisdom Tooth: Is It Normal?
Pain in the tooth adjacent to the wisdom tooth? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question! Initially, I went to the clinic because of pain in my lower tooth (the one in front of my wisdom tooth). After an X-ray, they said I needed to have my wisdom tooth extracted and ref...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
A few days after having wisdom teeth removed, the tooth in front may feel sore due to inflammation at the extraction site. It is recommended to keep the extraction site clean and to have regular follow-up appointments for examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry,...[Read More] Persistent Pain in Tooth Before Wisdom Tooth: Is It Normal?
How to Clean Cracks in Fixed Dentures Covered by Gums?
If there are cracks at the gum line of a fixed dental prosthesis, how should it be cleaned? Hello Doctor: My four front teeth are connected as a fixed bridge, and there is a small crack in the gum-covered area of the outermost tooth, which makes it easy for bacteria to accumulate...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you actively clean your teeth using a water flosser, and additionally, you should have X-rays taken at least every six months to check for any periodontal issues. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of H...[Read More] How to Clean Cracks in Fixed Dentures Covered by Gums?
Hard Lump on Outer Gum: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care
A hard lump on the outer gum? Hello doctor, I have a hard lump on the outer side of my right gum. It doesn't usually hurt, but it does cause some pain when I press on it. I went to the hospital for an X-ray, and it confirmed that there is indeed something there, but the doct...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you have X-rays taken annually for monitoring to confirm whether there are any changes in the mass. If there are no changes, you may continue to observe it. However, if there are changes, immediate excision or other interventions can be performed. Si...[Read More] Hard Lump on Outer Gum: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care
Understanding Tooth Pain and Abscess: Causes and Treatment Options
Toothache with the presence of an abscess? Hello Doctor, (1) I had my second molar replanted last June, but recently a pus-filled bump has appeared near my cheek. I went to a major hospital for an examination, and the doctor there diagnosed it as a necrotic nerve. I completed t...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello MOLO: 1. The presence of a pus-filled blister around the second molar indicates that the periodontal tissue is still in an inflammatory state, or that the replanted tooth's pulp has not yet undergone root canal treatment. If the blister persists, it is recommended to...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain and Abscess: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Oral Health Issues: Tongue Sores and Mucosal Concerns
Oral issues. Tongue ulcer. Oral mucosa? Hello, Director: My grandmother has just turned 79 years old. Around November last year, she often felt a dryness in her mouth. I believe this is because she is afraid of frequently using the restroom, so she only drinks about 500 to 600 cc...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsieh: In cases of dry mouth, it is easy for bacterial or fungal infections to occur. Additionally, if elderly individuals have chronic systemic diseases that lead to weakened immunity, this situation can recur. It is recommended to drink more water or use mouthwash, bu...[Read More] Understanding Oral Health Issues: Tongue Sores and Mucosal Concerns
Understanding Osteoporosis Risks in Dental Surgery for Seniors
Osteoporosis and its Risks in Dental Surgery Hello Doctor, my mother, who is about 64 years old, had her teeth extracted due to severe decay and wishes to get a full set of dentures. Six months ago, during a follow-up visit, the doctor mentioned that there was bone growth in the ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Lisa: The medications used for osteoporosis, whether oral or injectable, can suppress the new bone metabolism over time, leading to bones filled with old bone tissue. If a patient undergoes dental surgery, this may result in osteonecrosis or delayed wound healing. It is adv...[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis Risks in Dental Surgery for Seniors
Sudden Tooth Pain After Biting Chicken Bone: Is It Cracked?
If you bit into a chicken bone and suddenly experienced sharp pain in your tooth, is it possible that it has cracked? Hello, Dr. Lin. While I was eating, I unexpectedly bit into a small chicken bone with my upper left second molar, and I felt a sudden sharp pain in the tooth, but...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit a medical facility to have an X-ray taken to confirm whether there is any injury or inflammation of the dental pulp. Thank you! Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Sudden Tooth Pain After Biting Chicken Bone: Is It Cracked?
Persistent Tooth Pain Without Diagnosis: Seeking Solutions and Expert Advice
Toothache, examined and X-rayed with no issues found? I have been experiencing persistent throbbing pain in the upper left front teeth, including the incisors, lateral incisors, and canine. The pain feels like a nerve pain within the gums, and each episode is accompanied by a sen...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If you have previously bitten down on a hard object causing a tooth fracture, it is highly likely that you are experiencing symptoms similar to what you described as cracked tooth syndrome. Once the painful tooth is identified, it is recommended to proceed with root canal ...[Read More] Persistent Tooth Pain Without Diagnosis: Seeking Solutions and Expert Advice
Understanding Tartar Buildup vs. Hidden Cavities in Your Gums
Dental calculus in interdental spaces? Hello Doctor: I have been going to the hospital for annual check-ups and X-rays for many years without any issues, and I also schedule regular dental cleanings. Recently, a few weeks before my semi-annual cleaning, I noticed a small black sp...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsu: It is possible in all cases, and I recommend consulting a dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Tartar Buildup vs. Hidden Cavities in Your Gums
Understanding Tooth Pain: When X-rays Don't Reveal the Issue
Occlusal tooth pain Doctor, I have severe pain in the upper left last tooth when I bite down, to the point where I can't eat. I visited a dentist who took full mouth X-rays and individual X-rays, but the doctor said there were no cavities. I was prescribed pain medication an...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Certain crack orientations may indeed not be visible on standard X-rays. If persistent pain affects daily life, you may consider proceeding directly with root canal treatment to alleviate the condition of acute pulpitis. Thank you! Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of D...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: When X-rays Don't Reveal the Issue
Dealing with Dental Issues: Odor, Sensitivity, and Loose Crowns Explained
Dentures are foul-smelling, sensitive, and feel loose, but no abnormalities were found during the clinic examination? I had a dental crown placed on my left central incisor in 2019. Starting from January 6, I began to notice an unpleasant odor (olfactory sensation). On January 11...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you first have another physician at the original clinic conduct a re-examination. If you still have concerns, you may proceed to a medical center for further evaluation. If the opinions of three or more physicians are consistent, you should feel reas...[Read More] Dealing with Dental Issues: Odor, Sensitivity, and Loose Crowns Explained
Understanding Occasional Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
Occasional mild tooth sensitivity? Hello Dr. Tseng, I started feeling a sudden pain in one of my upper right teeth when biting down on food last night. It wasn't very painful, and it doesn't hurt every time I bite down. Additionally, drinking cold water or consuming ver...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. H: If there are no cavities but the teeth are very sensitive, it may be due to cracks in the teeth or gum recession around the teeth, which can expose the tooth roots in the oral cavity. Additionally, inflammation of the gums can also lead to sensitivity symptoms. It is...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Supernumerary Teeth: Is My Case Unique?
I would like to confirm if it is a case of supernumerary teeth? I have five lower front teeth, and currently, they do not affect my occlusion or other functions. All five have successfully transitioned to permanent teeth, although they slightly crowd the canines, which is not vis...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: To confirm the presence of supernumerary teeth, a full-mouth X-ray is required for verification, along with long-term observation and follow-up. If you are concerned about other tumors or hyperplastic tissues, it is advisable to visit a medical facility for an X-ray examin...[Read More] Understanding Supernumerary Teeth: Is My Case Unique?