Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary for Orthodontic Treatment?
Is it always necessary to extract wisdom teeth during orthodontic treatment? I would like to ask the doctor about orthodontic treatment. Recently, I have been considering getting braces and have consulted several orthodontists. Some doctors say that there is no need to extract wi...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: If your wisdom teeth are growing improperly, it is advisable to have them extracted. Unless they are growing in a very unusual manner, a general dental clinic can typically perform the extraction. Before the extraction, an X-ray will be taken to assess the growth status of...[Read More] Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary for Orthodontic Treatment?
Can X-Ray Exposure of Oral Wounds Lead to Cancer?
Can oral wounds develop cancer due to X-ray exposure? Dr. Chuang, if there is a sore in the mouth, commonly known as a mouth ulcer, located on the upper right gum, will taking an X-ray of the teeth cause cancer? Thank you, little old man.
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: The radiation dose from a single dental X-ray is not sufficient to cause cancer.[Read More] Can X-Ray Exposure of Oral Wounds Lead to Cancer?
Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Patient's Guide
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Hello Dr. Huang, I would like to ask you a question. I have done some research and read your posts, and I am quite certain that I have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). My left face, particularly around the zygomatic arch and ...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Li, Hello. Based on the situation you described, it is possible that you have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder). However, since you mentioned that you have previously consumed betel nut, we cannot rule out the possibility of oral cancer. Diagnosing TMJ dis...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Patient's Guide
Addressing Wisdom Teeth Issues During Orthodontic Treatment
Issues with Wisdom Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment Hello, doctor. I am considering orthodontic treatment due to misaligned teeth. I would like to ask about my upper second molars on both sides, which have been filled due to deep cavities but are functioning normally and have n...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: Before orthodontic treatment, it is necessary to take X-rays and analyze dental models to determine the method of correction and whether tooth extraction is needed. X-rays can also help identify the presence of wisdom tooth buds; if there are tooth buds, there is a possibi...[Read More] Addressing Wisdom Teeth Issues During Orthodontic Treatment
Managing Dead Baby Teeth: When to Extract or Treat?
Deciduous tooth necrosis, with swollen gums and pus? Last April, my daughter fell and chipped a corner of her upper front tooth. Three months later, the tooth turned black, and the dentist said it was dead. Another three months passed, and the gums around the dead tooth became sw...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: If it is possible to perform a root canal treatment to save the tooth, that would be the best option. I suggest you give it a try; how will you know it won't be successful if you don't attempt it? Even if it doesn't work out, it won't be too late to ext...[Read More] Managing Dead Baby Teeth: When to Extract or Treat?
Common Issues After Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
Problems Associated with Root Canal Treatment Hello Doctor: Previously, I visited a private dental clinic (under national health insurance) due to a cavity. The cavity was located between two teeth (behind the canine) and did not cause any sensitivity or pain. I thought it was ju...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: If there is still pain after root canal treatment, it is necessary to re-evaluate to determine if the treatment was incomplete or if there are other issues. However, these evaluations must be conducted clinically and in conjunction with X-rays, so it is recommended that yo...[Read More] Common Issues After Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
Understanding Tooth Misalignment and Tartar Buildup: Your Dental Concerns
Tooth misalignment, dental calculus? Q1: Last week, I got hit in the mouth while playing basketball, and I think my tooth (the one next to my front tooth) might be slightly misaligned. The angle is not significant, but it feels off. I went to the dentist for an X-ray, and he expl...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: Whether a tooth that has been hit requires root canal treatment is usually determined based on symptoms. Typically, symptoms such as pain or the formation of an abscess indicate the need for treatment, but sometimes these issues may arise several years later, and treatment...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Misalignment and Tartar Buildup: Your Dental Concerns
Can Dental Fillings Damage Tooth Pulp? Understanding the Risks
Is it possible for dental fillings to damage the dental pulp? At the end of the year, during a dental check-up at a clinic near my home, the dentist informed me that both of my wisdom teeth had cavities. One of them appeared to be close to the pulp and required root canal treatme...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Deep cavities may have already invaded the nerve, and it can be clinically difficult to determine this; X-ray examinations may also yield inconclusive results. Sometimes, in the process of cleaning out the cavity, the dental pulp may become irritated and lead to an acute flare-up...[Read More] Can Dental Fillings Damage Tooth Pulp? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Gum Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Gum pain Hello Dr. Yang, I have been experiencing pain in the gum area between my upper right eighth and seventh molars. It hurts significantly when I apply pressure with my hand, and this discomfort has persisted for about a month. I have consulted five different dentists, all o...
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Hello: First, we will use a periodontal probe and X-rays to diagnose whether there is a periodontal issue. If it is a periodontal problem, periodontal treatment will need to be performed to potentially resolve your issue. Generally, teeth numbered 7 and 8 are difficult to clean. ...[Read More] Understanding Gum Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Is Pain Normal When a Dental Crown Falls Off? Understanding Your Symptoms
Crown dislodgement after root canal treatment? Hello, I recently consumed sticky food, which caused my dental crown that was placed a year ago to come loose. I visited the dentist today to have it reattached. However, I have a question: Is it normal to feel pain when pressing on ...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Hello: I suggest that you observe for a while to see if there are any abnormalities, or consider getting an X-ray to check if there are any changes in the root of the tooth that has undergone root canal treatment. However, sometimes X-rays may not reveal early changes. Since you ...[Read More] Is Pain Normal When a Dental Crown Falls Off? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Periodontal Disease Treatment in Taiwan
What are the health insurance coverage items for periodontal disease treatment? In the year 2010, after the approval of the integrated care plan for periodontal disease in dental outpatient services, what are the items covered by health insurance for periodontal treatment, and wh...
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Hello: 1. The current healthcare insurance coverage for periodontal disease treatment includes emergency management of periodontal disease, periodontal dressings, scaling (teeth cleaning), subgingival curettage, periodontal flap surgery, gingivectomy, and basic periodontal proc...[Read More] Understanding Insurance Coverage for Periodontal Disease Treatment in Taiwan
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
Dealing with Cavities Between Teeth: Options and Costs Explained
Cavities between the teeth? I have a cavity in my tooth gap that was filled about six months ago, and I feel that the filling was not done well. Health insurance regulations state that if a filling is done at a specific clinic, I must wait a few years before I can go to another c...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question. The cavity between your teeth was filled six months ago. If you are experiencing discomfort, it is advisable to consult a dentist for a further examination to determine if the filling material has frac...[Read More] Dealing with Cavities Between Teeth: Options and Costs Explained
Understanding Gum Abscess in Toddlers: When to Seek Further Dental Care
Gingival abscess in infants Hello, my child has developed a pus-filled bump approximately 2mm in diameter on the front of the upper gum, right in the front. The day before yesterday, we visited Clinic A, where the doctor only examined the front and suggested a root canal treatmen...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. In response to your question, I would like to provide the following advice: A 2 cm abscess on the right anterior upper gum may generally indicate a bacterial infection of the periodontal tissue or the apex of the tooth root. However, if the...[Read More] Understanding Gum Abscess in Toddlers: When to Seek Further Dental Care
Understanding Sinus Issues Related to Dental Treatments and Solutions
Sinus issues? I recently completed treatment for periodontal disease, which was relatively mild and did not involve any surgery, lasting about six months. I want to undergo orthodontic treatment because my dentist also performs autogenous tooth transplantation. I have a missing t...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello Sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: The position of the upper left tooth is approximately the first molar, which causes tilting of the second premolar and second molar. If the wisdom tooth is intac...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Issues Related to Dental Treatments and Solutions
Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Patient's Guide
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello Dr. Huang, I have a question to ask you. Previously, I was unaware that my left face had a swelling sensation, but after seeing several doctors, the diagnoses were all different. Ultimately, it was not truly diagnosed as temporomandibular joi...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Yao Jun, Hello. You are likely suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). First, it is important to identify the underlying cause. Many patients with this condition have issues with malocclusion or habits such as bruxism (nighttime teeth grinding) or clenching. ...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Patient's Guide
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
Understanding Gum Bleeding: Causes, Treatments, and Insurance Coverage
Gum bleeding Bleeding while brushing your teeth and having bad breath can be signs of periodontal disease. What methods are available for a complete cure? Is dental cleaning covered by health insurance, or is it out-of-pocket? Thank you!
Dr. Yang Zhiren Reply:
Hello, due to the long holiday, Dr. Yang will be off on Monday and will return to work on Tuesday to address your questions promptly. We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you! Bleeding while brushing your teeth indicates that your gums are in an inflamed state. At this time,...[Read More] Understanding Gum Bleeding: Causes, Treatments, and Insurance Coverage
Understanding Intermittent Tooth Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Toothache Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I started experiencing sharp pain in the back of my lower right teeth. This pain usually occurs unexpectedly, with a frequency of about once every 1 to 2 days, lasting from a few minutes to several hours. When it hurts, it is very intens...
Dr. Zhuang Suhui Reply:
Lin: Hello, due to your issue, I am unable to assist and do not have experience in this area. I apologize. Besides dental concerns, could it be related to issues with the facial nerves or blood vessels? I recommend consulting an otolaryngologist or a neurologist for further evalu...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Tooth Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions