Understanding Hidden Cavities Between Teeth: Why Your Dentist Might Miss Them
Cavities between the teeth? During my last visit to Chang Gung Hospital for a dental check-up, the doctor discovered a cavity in the interproximal space of my second and third molars through an X-ray, which was not visible to the naked eye. However, due to my busy work schedule, ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I appreciate your question and would like to provide the following relevant suggestions: Generally speaking, there may be cavities in the interproximal areas of the second and third molars that are not visible to the naked eye. The enamel o...[Read More] Understanding Hidden Cavities Between Teeth: Why Your Dentist Might Miss Them
Understanding Orthodontics for Children: Addressing Crossbite Issues
Orthodontics Hello, I have a question regarding my child's orthodontic issues. My child is currently in middle school and has had a crossbite since birth, although it wasn't very noticeable and there were no signs of misalignment. However, after entering elementary scho...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Malocclusion, specifically an underbite, is characterized by the excessive growth of the mandibular condyle, resulting in a condition where the lower jaw is larger than the upper jaw. If this condition is hereditary, it typically requires surgical intervention for correction. How...[Read More] Understanding Orthodontics for Children: Addressing Crossbite Issues
Why Are There No Medical History Forms at Dental Clinics?
Question Why is there no medical history form (billing statement) at the dental clinic?
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: Generally speaking, when visiting a dental clinic, the dentist will conduct a detailed clinical examination based on the patient's chief complaint, includi...[Read More] Why Are There No Medical History Forms at Dental Clinics?
Understanding Wisdom Teeth and Root Canal Treatment: Key Insights
Wisdom Teeth and Root Canal Treatment Due to the eruption of my wisdom teeth, I experienced gum inflammation, which led the doctor to perform a cleaning procedure. Afterward, the wisdom tooth stopped hurting, but I noticed that the second molar in front of it feels soft when brus...
Dr. Cao Guoqing Reply:
1. Please wait until the wisdom tooth extraction site has healed before making any comments. 2. Soft teeth are not a necessary reason for root canal treatment. 3. There is no need to worry about dental X-ray radiation (which is very low). 4. This is the key point; consider gettin...[Read More] Understanding Wisdom Teeth and Root Canal Treatment: Key Insights
Essential Questions About Dental Implants: What You Need to Know
Dental implant-related issues? Hello Dr. Wu, I am a student from Taipei studying in Tainan and I am about to graduate. I have a cavity in my upper left second premolar that cannot be restored with a crown, and I do not want to use a dental bridge as it would damage the adjacent h...
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello: 1. If too much time (1-2 years) passes after tooth extraction, adjacent teeth may tilt, resulting in insufficient space for an implant. Therefore, it is best to place a prosthesis as soon as possible after tooth extraction to maintain space. 2. Regarding the timeline, ...[Read More] Essential Questions About Dental Implants: What You Need to Know
Impacted Wisdom Tooth: Should You Remove It or Leave It Alone?
The molar is horizontally impacted within the gum tissue? Hello Doctor: Recently, during an X-ray at the dental clinic, it was discovered that my lower left molar is horizontally positioned and is partially covered by gum tissue. Since it does not affect my eating and is not pain...
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello: Impacted lower wisdom teeth are commonly found in modern dental arches. If left untreated, they may lead to cavities in the anterior teeth or periodontal damage. The presence of bruising on the gums may be due to the eruptive forces of the teeth or occlusion with the upper...[Read More] Impacted Wisdom Tooth: Should You Remove It or Leave It Alone?
Understanding Gum Inflammation: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Regarding the issue of gingivitis? Hello, Doctor: Sometimes when I bite into food, I feel a bit of pain in my left teeth, but it’s not frequent, and I don’t experience any pain at night while sleeping. When I visited a dental clinic, I had an X-ray taken, and there were no caviti...
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello: The discomfort you experience while biting food may be attributed to two possible causes. The first could be an issue with the teeth themselves, and the second might be related to periodontal problems causing discomfort. The information you provided does not allow for a de...[Read More] Understanding Gum Inflammation: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Can Tooth Pain Lead to Sinusitis? Understanding Dental and Sinus Health
Toothache leading to sinusitis? Hello, Director Chu! I recently had a toothache and went to the clinic to see a dentist. After taking an X-ray, the doctor said my tooth was severely decayed and he was hesitant to extract it. The cavity is located at the back of the upper left row...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. In reality, if a cavity has progressed to the root of the tooth, you can consult an oral surgeon for extraction. It is advisable to have a prior consultati...[Read More] Can Tooth Pain Lead to Sinusitis? Understanding Dental and Sinus Health
Should I Get a Permanent Crown After Root Canal Pain?
Should I get braces? Hello Dr. Tsao, After my root canal treatment, the doctor placed a temporary crown on my tooth. When I press on the area below the tooth with my hand, it still hurts. The doctor said that the X-ray looks very clear and it shouldn't be a nerve issue. Giv...
Dr. Cao Guoqing Reply:
Hello Ms. Chiouya: The first requirement for getting braces is that the treated teeth must be fully functional and pain-free. It is recommended that you continue to monitor the situation. One of the factors contributing to tooth discoloration is the consumption of antibiotics. Th...[Read More] Should I Get a Permanent Crown After Root Canal Pain?
Does Health Insurance Cover Autologous Dental Implants in Taiwan?
Is there insurance coverage for autologous dental implants? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if there is insurance coverage for autologous dental implants? Can I extract my wisdom teeth to fill the space where I previously had a dental bridge?
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello: How many surgical fees are covered by health insurance for autologous tooth transplantation? Can wisdom teeth be used to fill the gap for a dental bridge? It depends on the condition of the wisdom teeth, and a dentist must conduct an actual examination and review X-rays to...[Read More] Does Health Insurance Cover Autologous Dental Implants in Taiwan?
Understanding Root Canal Treatment: What to Do After Your Procedure
Root canal treatment I previously had inflammation with pus in my dental prosthesis and underwent root canal treatment at a clinic. During the drilling, I initially thought the fit of the prosthesis was poor, as I experienced a painful sensation when sucking hard. I visited the c...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your questions and provide the following suggestions: 1. It is advisable to obtain X-rays for a pre-treatment diagnosis before undergoing endodontic therapy. 2. Additionally, it is best to remove crowns and bridges for tr...[Read More] Understanding Root Canal Treatment: What to Do After Your Procedure
When is Root Canal Treatment Necessary for Cavities?
When is root canal treatment necessary? When is root canal treatment necessary for cavities? Recently, I felt something unusual with my tooth, so I went to the clinic for an examination. After taking an X-ray, the dentist said I had a cavity. The dentist drilled it open, cleaned ...
Dr. Wu Jinjun Reply:
Hello: If cavities are only in the enamel or dentin, they can be treated with silver amalgam or resin fillings. Root canal treatment is only necessary when the decay reaches the nerve. Dr. Wu Jin-jun, Director of Dentistry at Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan...[Read More] When is Root Canal Treatment Necessary for Cavities?
Can Braces Reduce Jawbone Projection and Change Face Shape?
Can braces help reduce the size of the mandible? Doctor, will wearing braces cause the angle of the mandible to become more recessed? In other words, can it correct a square face? My face shape is naturally concave, and I have one protruding front tooth, which makes my mouth look...
Dr. Gao Zhijian Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I would like to address your inquiry and provide the following advice: Based on your description, braces cannot correct a square jaw. Braces can only adjust the angle of individual protruding teeth. For orthodontic concerns, it is advisable to ...[Read More] Can Braces Reduce Jawbone Projection and Change Face Shape?
Understanding Radiolucent Shadows in Wisdom and Molars: Causes and Concerns
Radiopaque suspected shadows at the roots of the wisdom teeth and molars? Hello, Dr. Tseng. Due to a previous issue with my wisdom teeth, I had cellulitis in my lower right tooth. Later, I went to a small clinic to prepare for the extraction of my wisdom teeth, but after taking a...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I would like to respond to your inquiry and provide the following advice: The cellulitis caused by wisdom teeth is being treated with antibiotics to reduce swelling. However, upon reviewing the X-ray, there is a radiolucency at the root of the ...[Read More] Understanding Radiolucent Shadows in Wisdom and Molars: Causes and Concerns
Essential Questions About Dental Treatments and Procedures
Questions about dental treatment? Dear Dr. Huang, I have a few questions regarding dental treatment. 1) I am currently considering dental implant surgery for a tooth. The doctor informed me that I need to have blood drawn for "bone grafting." After the tooth extracti...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: The technique you referred to as "blood extraction for bone regeneration" involves drawing 8-10 cc of blood, which is then subjected to layered centrifugation to produce a high concentration of platelets. This is similar to the regenerative membranes used ...[Read More] Essential Questions About Dental Treatments and Procedures
Choosing Between Implants and Bridges: Which Dental Solution Lasts Longer?
Dental Implants and Dental Bridges Hello. I would like to ask for advice. Ten years ago, I had four dental implants placed due to cavities in my front teeth. Recently, I have experienced gum bleeding, and X-rays revealed two dark spots at the apex that require treatment. After th...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
Hello, Xiao Jin: Thank you for your question. Here is my response and some suggestions: You have a fixed dental bridge with posts that was done 10 years ago, and now you are experiencing issues such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and apical periodontitis. With so many possible dir...[Read More] Choosing Between Implants and Bridges: Which Dental Solution Lasts Longer?
Understanding First Molars: When Should They Erupt in Children?
First molar Hello Doctor: My daughter is seven years old and has already lost three of her primary teeth, but her first permanent molars have not erupted yet. Is this normal? Also, what is the best time for children to receive fluoride treatments? Thank you!
Dr. Yang Hui Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ru: The first molar typically erupts between the ages of 5 and 6. However, some individuals may experience a slower eruption. You can count from the central incisors; the sixth tooth is the first molar. If it hasn't erupted by age 6, you might consider getting an...[Read More] Understanding First Molars: When Should They Erupt in Children?
Understanding Dental Treatment Options for Complicated Cases
Dentistry Hello. I would like to describe the situation in writing. The treatment involves four teeth, categorized as follows: (front tooth) left one, left two, (front tooth) right one, and right two. The shadow area on the left is larger than on the right. Since 1990, the left g...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
Dear Xiao Jin, Hello! I would like to respond to your questions and provide some relevant suggestions. Your detailed description is very clear: you have undergone endodontic treatment on your upper front teeth, and you are currently still in treatment. You hope to have the tooth...[Read More] Understanding Dental Treatment Options for Complicated Cases
Should You Extract Your Wisdom Teeth? Understanding Dental Advice and Concerns
Wisdom tooth calcification? Since April, I have been seeing the dentist, who has consistently recommended that I consider having my wisdom teeth extracted. Over the past month, I have had several cavities filled, and the dentist mentioned that I should just have regular check-ups...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
Hello, I am responding to your inquiry and providing some advice: The dentist you encountered has filled your cavity, indicating that he is a responsible practitioner. Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically emerge around the age of 20. When they are impacted or tilted, ...[Read More] Should You Extract Your Wisdom Teeth? Understanding Dental Advice and Concerns
Understanding Post-Apical Surgery: When to Seek Dental Care
Apicoectomy Hello, I previously had a gum abscess and underwent two apicoectomies at a general dental clinic (the first one was unsuccessful). It has been about 20 days since the surgery, and I occasionally feel mild tooth pain and discomfort. The area where the surgery was perfo...
Dr. Chu Boqin Reply:
Hello, 1. The second dentist may be more conservative in treatment due to concerns about potential medical disputes, so we should be understanding of that. 2. After completing endodontic treatment, there should be no clinical symptoms. Apicoectomy is a supplementary method tha...[Read More] Understanding Post-Apical Surgery: When to Seek Dental Care