Is it necessary to get infected tooth extracted in a kid?
Hello doctor,
My four year old daughter got a cavity filled a month back. But now, she is complaining that the same tooth is paining, and there is a big swelling around the infected tooth. So, we went to the dentist, who gave her antibiotics for seven days. He wants to extract the infected tooth, and he took many x-rays of the tooth. Is this the common course of action? If antibiotics work well and the infection is healed, is removing the tooth necessary? Thank you.
21 May 2024 - 1 min read
Is swollen and numb cheeks after RCT a dental emergency?
Hello doctor,
My five year old (turns six next month) has gone for a root canal a few hours ago. I was not with him but they told me that they used a gel anesthetic, if it matters. Now, he is back and his cheek on the treated side is swollen and numb, and he seems to have difficulty smiling or speaking with it (no pain). Is this normal or do we need to revisit the dentist again? Is it a dental emergency?
20 May 2024 - 1 min read
Can I use a fixed retainer for root planning therapy?
Hi doctor,
I have just been told that I have gum disease and 3 mm to 6 mm pockets. And, my wisdom teeth have 8 mm pocket. I have braces on now and I am due to have them off next month. I need to get scaling and root planing treatment to treat my gum problems. Can I still wear a fixed retainer? I really do not want my teeth to shift after all this time with my brace. Please suggest.
20 May 2024 - 1 min read
Can a mouthwash help prevent periodontal disease?
Hello doctor,
I have a little dental dilemma and was hoping you could shed some light on it. I have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, and my dentist is recommending surgery because I have some loose teeth and my gums bleed quite a bit. I have heard that using mouthwash can be helpful for gum health, but I am not sure how it works exactly. Could you explain how mouthwash might help with my gum issues? Also, I am a bit worried because I am diabetic, and at the age of 58, I have heard that oral health can be extra important for diabetics. Is there anything specific I should know about using mouthwash as a diabetic? Kindly suggest.
18 May 2024 - 1 min read
What could cause pain in the teeth after placing a crown?
Hi doctor,
About 13 years ago, I had an abscess on the right upper first and second molars. The Endodontist has done root canal treatment in these teeth and crowns were placed after the treatment. Recently, I experienced pain around the gums in the second molar and there is a pain radiating to the head. I went to my dentist. He examined and took an X-ray which looked fine. The crown was removed and cleaned by the Hygienist with a Listerine or Peroxide mix. There were food particles and they cleared the food particles present in the crown. My dentist advised me to take a tablet Zyrtec every day. The teeth still have a dull type of pain. Could it be an issue of the crown that has not been shown on the X-ray or there is any allergies?
17 May 2024 - 1 min read
