Swollen Gums Next to Upper Teeth: Is It a Wisdom Tooth?
There is a swelling next to the uppermost tooth? I'm not sure if I'm getting wisdom teeth, but it's been quite a few days. Here is the picture I took: https://ppt.cc/fmRmix
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is possible. It is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible to get an X-ray to confirm the internal condition for safety![Read More] Swollen Gums Next to Upper Teeth: Is It a Wisdom Tooth?
Understanding Gum Issues: What to Do When You Notice a Hole Near Your Wisdom Tooth
It feels like a piece of gum tissue has come off above the wisdom tooth? Hello, Doctor. This morning, I noticed a sudden hole at the junction of my last molar and the gum, as if a piece of tissue is missing, exposing something white inside (I'm not sure if it's a wisdom...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit a dentist for a panoramic X-ray to confirm if there are any impacted wisdom teeth. Additionally, if the previously filled molar is experiencing sensitivity, you may want to return to the original clinic to check if it needs to be refilled.[Read More] Understanding Gum Issues: What to Do When You Notice a Hole Near Your Wisdom Tooth
Understanding Tooth Decay, Grinding, and Cracked Teeth Issues
Cavities, bruxism, and tooth fractures? Hello, doctor. I was breastfed until I was two and a half years old. At three, I discovered cavities in my primary teeth that required root canal treatment, but I did not address those teeth because they were going to fall out. As I grew ol...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to find a trusted physician and undergo long-term treatment at that location. Many of the questions you raised require prior and subsequent X-rays or objective data from follow-up observations to determine whether filling is necessary, whether to proceed ...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Decay, Grinding, and Cracked Teeth Issues
Should You Extract a Tooth with a Root Abscess After Root Canal Treatment?
Does a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment and developed an apical abscess need to be extracted? Is a second root canal necessary for an apical radiolucency? In mid-September, I accidentally bit down on a chopstick with my upper left teeth, around the third, fourth, or ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Dear Ms. Mimi: If the fifth tooth has micro-cracks, the prognosis will still be poor even with re-root canal treatment in the future, so extraction is recommended. As for the fourth tooth, if the apical lesion is small, re-root canal treatment can be considered; however, if the a...[Read More] Should You Extract a Tooth with a Root Abscess After Root Canal Treatment?
Understanding Gum Bumps: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Gum swelling or gum lump? A few days ago, I suddenly noticed 2-3 lumps on the gum behind my last molar, right on the gum where my wisdom tooth used to be (the wisdom tooth was extracted 2-3 years ago). The color is flesh-toned, and when I touch it with a cotton swab, it feels har...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Aa: If there is recurrent discomfort in the molar area, it may be associated with pain, even in the absence of an abscess. This could indicate chronic inflammation. It is advisable to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Gum Bumps: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
The Importance of 3D CT Scans for Invisalign and Palate Expanders
The Necessity of 3D Computed Tomography (CT) Hello, Doctor. I am 22 years old and I would like to undergo Invisalign treatment for orthodontics. However, I may need to use a palatal expander first. Do I need to have a 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan of my teeth befor...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If your financial situation allows, it is advisable to prepare all necessary information in advance, especially for a comparative analysis before and after treatment to confirm that the results meet your or your physician's expectations. Additionally, for some deep an...[Read More] The Importance of 3D CT Scans for Invisalign and Palate Expanders
Understanding Recurrent Inflammation After Root Canal Treatment
Recurrent root canal inflammation? I would like to inquire about a tooth for which I am considering getting an implant. Last year, I had a dental crown placed, but over the past year, I have experienced recurrent pain when biting and had to have it opened twice. The last time it ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Jas: If a tooth undergoes root canal treatment but has a small crack that frequently causes gum inflammation, and the inflammation recurs, it is advisable to consider extracting the tooth and then exploring options for dental implants or other forms of prosthetics. Dire...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Inflammation After Root Canal Treatment
Understanding Jaw Issues After Ankle Injury: A Patient's Journey
Swallowing saliva, wisdom tooth issues? Hello Doctor, On September 11th of this year, I sprained my left ankle while carrying four large bags of trash at my rental place in Banqiao. I missed the last two steps and fell. I went to an orthopedic doctor and had two X-rays, which c...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Ms. Caroline: If the discomfort in your temporomandibular joint persists, it is recommended to return to the oral surgeon for further evaluation. If you are experiencing pain in your temples, it could also be a migraine issue, so it is advisable to consult a neurologist for...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Issues After Ankle Injury: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Root Canal Cracks: Treatment Options and Long-Term Care
Root canal fracture Hello: Previously, I had a gum abscess and had to remove my dentures to undergo root canal treatment, where a crack was discovered inside. The endodontist advised me not to keep the tooth, as bacteria would likely re-enter. After cleaning, the condition improv...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If the first dentist has informed you that the tooth is unresponsive to treatment, and you have now confirmed that it is indeed undergoing ineffective treatment, it is advisable not to pursue any further out-of-pocket or invasive procedures at this time. Instead, consider ...[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Cracks: Treatment Options and Long-Term Care
Pain When Pressing on Tooth After Filling: What You Need to Know
Pain upon pressure after filling a cavity between the teeth? Hello Dr. Lin! In mid-August, after moving, I found a new dentist, Dr. A, near my new home for a routine teeth cleaning. During the visit, she discovered a cavity in the interproximal area of my lower right second molar...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1. To determine if cavities have been completely cleaned, X-rays can be taken as evidence. 2. If there are indeed residual caries, the tooth itself has some resistance (the dental pulp's vitality will activate immune mechanisms). 3. It is advisable to seek treatment f...[Read More] Pain When Pressing on Tooth After Filling: What You Need to Know
Understanding Non-Vital Teeth: Causes and Symptoms of Dental Necrosis
Inquiry about the issue of unexplained necrotic teeth? Hello Dr. Lin, I have a tooth that experienced severe pain in 2019. Recently, both cold and electric pulp tests at the clinic and medical center indicated that the tooth is non-responsive. Lately, there has been sensitivity a...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: If periapical periodontitis has already occurred, it is recommended to prioritize root canal treatment. If there is no improvement, consider combining it with periodontal surgery. There are many causes of pulp necrosis, including bacterial infection, but more commonly due ...[Read More] Understanding Non-Vital Teeth: Causes and Symptoms of Dental Necrosis
Is a Palate Expander Necessary for Jaw Alignment and Dental Health?
What is the necessity of a maxillary expander? Hello, Doctor. 1. I am a 20-year-old male who has had a full mouth X-ray and a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) X-ray. The TMJ specialist indicated that the articular discs on both sides are anteriorly displaced, with the right side b...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Issues related to orthodontics or aesthetic medicine are highly individualized and non-essential medical procedures, making it difficult to provide generalized answers online. Additionally, they often involve significant out-of-pocket expenses. It is advisable to choose a ...[Read More] Is a Palate Expander Necessary for Jaw Alignment and Dental Health?
Gum Pain Without Dental Issues: Seeking Answers for Persistent Discomfort
Gum pain with normal teeth? Over a year ago, I started experiencing pain when pressing on a specific spot on my gum related to one of my teeth. It doesn't hurt or show any redness or swelling when not pressed. I have seen many dentists and had X-rays done, all of which showe...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: "It won't hurt if you don't press it." "Many dentists and X-rays show that the teeth are normal." It is recommended to just observe and not to intentionally press on the gums. If you still feel discomfort, consider going to a medical center fo...[Read More] Gum Pain Without Dental Issues: Seeking Answers for Persistent Discomfort
Understanding Dental Issues: Root Canal Treatment vs. Extraction for Upper Molars
Dental implant root canal Recently, I have experienced swelling and pain when biting down on my upper second premolar prosthesis (which has been in use for 10 years). There is also pain when pressing on the buccal gingiva. An X-ray shows a shadow between the prosthesis and the mo...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: 1/2 It is suggested to change your perspective. The originally problematic tooth has been preserved for an additional 10 years due to root canal treatment and the protection of a crown. 3/4 If you want to confirm the success rate of a second root canal, it is advisable to ...[Read More] Understanding Dental Issues: Root Canal Treatment vs. Extraction for Upper Molars
Do Asymptomatic Apical Cysts Require Treatment? A Dental Inquiry
Does an asymptomatic periapical cyst require treatment? Hello Doctor: About eight years ago, I had root canal treatment on two upper front teeth. Approximately five to six years ago, my gums started to become red and swollen, with a bad odor, and it has progressively worsened. I ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: Due to differing opinions from the two physicians, it is recommended that you visit the endodontics department at a medical center for further examination and to seek a third opinion. Please inform the physician of your original condition and the sequence of events. You ca...[Read More] Do Asymptomatic Apical Cysts Require Treatment? A Dental Inquiry
Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Nerve Sensations
Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction? An X-ray revealed that the root of the lower right wisdom tooth was in contact with the nerve. At the end of March, due to a deep cavity in the wisdom tooth that likely reached the nerve, I experienced intermittent nerve pain. ...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
Hello: If the wisdom tooth is in contact with the inferior alveolar nerve, there may be some nerve contact or traction injury during the extraction of the wisdom tooth. The application of collagen for recovery is a good sign, and the absence of pain indicates a positive healing p...[Read More] Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Nerve Sensations
Post-Dental Cleaning Pain: Should You Monitor or Seek Further Care?
After having a dental cleaning following a cavity, is it necessary to continue monitoring for pain? Hello, Doctor. Around early October, I started experiencing a dull pain in one of my lower right molars. I occasionally felt discomfort when using an interdental brush, so I visite...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to seek a second opinion at a medical center. If two or more doctors agree that there are no issues, it is advisable to relax. Teeth are meant for long-term use and are considered consumables; one must accept that damage or loss may eventually occur, but ...[Read More] Post-Dental Cleaning Pain: Should You Monitor or Seek Further Care?
Gum Recession During Invisalign Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Gingival recession I am currently undergoing Invisalign treatment, which has been ongoing for about 8 months. Recently, I noticed that the gums around my first molar have receded significantly, and it feels like the alveolar bone is indented. What could be causing this, and what ...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It may be due to rapid movement or anatomical issues, and the rapid changes in soft tissue should also consider the possibility of malignant tumors. It is advisable to return for a follow-up consultation with your physician and to have comparative intraoral images or X-ray...[Read More] Gum Recession During Invisalign Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Persistent Pain Between Teeth: Causes and Treatment Options
Pain between the teeth? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing pain between my second to last tooth and the third tooth on the upper left side for a month now. I have seen a dentist two or three times during this period, and X-rays showed no cavities, only gum inflammation. Init...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to schedule another appointment with the periodontal department at a medical center to report symptoms of gum bleeding and bad odor. Additionally, there are symptoms of gum pain and headaches. Please have them check for any interproximal caries; if none a...[Read More] Persistent Pain Between Teeth: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Unilateral Chewing Pain: Causes and Solutions
Unilateral chewing Hello Dr. Lin, I have been chewing on one side for several years, and recently the side that I haven't been using suddenly developed gum inflammation. After taking antibiotics and painkillers for a week, it has healed. I then tried to use the other side (t...
Dr. Lin Jiayong Reply:
Hello: "I had a dental check-up, and the X-rays showed no abnormalities. My gums are also normal. The dentist ground down a bit of my tooth and advised me to continue monitoring. I used Sensodyne and Parodontax, but they don't seem to help." It is recommended to go...[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Chewing Pain: Causes and Solutions