EXPERT
Qiao Fang
General Practitioner
Dr. Qiao Fang is a Dentist practicing in Chicago, IL. Dr. Fang specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Qiao Fang
- Chicago, IL
- Accepting new patients
Understanding Dental Implants: A Patient's Guide to a Lasting Smile
Missing a tooth or two? You're not alone. Tooth loss is a common issue that many people face at some point in their lives. While there are multiple solutions available, one...
Can I get braces at 30 years old?
Absolutely! You can definitely get braces at 30 years old. Age is not a barrier to orthodontic treatment like braces. Many adults choose to straighten their teeth for various reasons, READ MORE
Absolutely! You can definitely get braces at 30 years old. Age is not a barrier to orthodontic treatment like braces. Many adults choose to straighten their teeth for various reasons, including improving their smile and oral health. It's always a good idea to visit an orthodontist for a consultation. They can give you the best advice about the types of braces that would work well for you and the expected duration of the treatment. Remember, it's never too late to get the smile you want!
What causes an abscess on your gums?
Gum abscess, also known as a periodontal abscess, is a localized area of infection in the gums. The primary cause is usually a bacterial infection, which can occur for several READ MORE
Gum abscess, also known as a periodontal abscess, is a localized area of infection in the gums. The primary cause is usually a bacterial infection, which can occur for several reasons:
Untreated Periodontal Disease: Chronic gum disease can lead to pockets where bacteria can grow, leading to an abscess.
Tooth Decay: If tooth decay extends to the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth), it can result in an infection that spreads to the gums.
Gum Damage: Any injury to the gums from food, toothbrush, or other objects can provide an entry point for bacteria.
Impacted Food: Sometimes, food particles or other foreign objects can get lodged in between the teeth and gums, leading to an infection.
Dental Procedures: Some dental procedures that result in gum incisions can potentially lead to an abscess if proper hygiene isn't maintained or if the area becomes infected.
Weakened Immune System: People with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to infections, including gum abscesses.
If you suspect you have a gum abscess, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatments can include drainage of the abscess, antibiotics to treat the infection, and additional dental procedures to treat the underlying cause, such as root canals or tooth extractions.
Ignoring a gum abscess can lead to the spread of infection and more serious health complications, including the risk of losing the affected tooth or the infection spreading to other parts of your body. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Untreated Periodontal Disease: Chronic gum disease can lead to pockets where bacteria can grow, leading to an abscess.
Tooth Decay: If tooth decay extends to the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth), it can result in an infection that spreads to the gums.
Gum Damage: Any injury to the gums from food, toothbrush, or other objects can provide an entry point for bacteria.
Impacted Food: Sometimes, food particles or other foreign objects can get lodged in between the teeth and gums, leading to an infection.
Dental Procedures: Some dental procedures that result in gum incisions can potentially lead to an abscess if proper hygiene isn't maintained or if the area becomes infected.
Weakened Immune System: People with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to infections, including gum abscesses.
If you suspect you have a gum abscess, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatments can include drainage of the abscess, antibiotics to treat the infection, and additional dental procedures to treat the underlying cause, such as root canals or tooth extractions.
Ignoring a gum abscess can lead to the spread of infection and more serious health complications, including the risk of losing the affected tooth or the infection spreading to other parts of your body. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential.
is it normal to have gums pain with dentures?
It's relatively common for individuals who are new to wearing dentures or have received a new set of dentures to experience some level of gum discomfort or soreness initially. READ MORE
It's relatively common for individuals who are new to wearing dentures or have received a new set of dentures to experience some level of gum discomfort or soreness initially. This is often due to the gums adjusting to the new appliance, as well as potential friction or pressure points created by the dentures. This adjustment period can take several days to a few weeks. However, prolonged or severe gum pain is not normal and may be indicative of issues such as:
Poor Fit: Ill-fitting dentures can cause excessive friction or pressure on the gums.
Allergic Reaction: Some people may be allergic to the material used in dentures.
Infection: Poor hygiene or irregular cleaning of the dentures can lead to bacterial buildup and subsequently, infection.
Underlying Dental Issues: Some pre-existing dental problems could become exacerbated when you start wearing dentures.
Here are some steps you can take to alleviate discomfort:
Consult Your Dentist: If you're experiencing persistent pain, consult your dentist to rule out any issues with the fit or quality of your dentures.
Adhesive: Using a denture adhesive may help stabilize the dentures, reducing movement and irritation.
Cleaning: Maintain excellent hygiene by cleaning your dentures and gums thoroughly every day.
Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet to lessen the stress on your gums.
If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, it is crucial to consult your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation. Depending on the cause of your discomfort, your dentist may need to adjust your dentures or recommend alternative treatment options.
Poor Fit: Ill-fitting dentures can cause excessive friction or pressure on the gums.
Allergic Reaction: Some people may be allergic to the material used in dentures.
Infection: Poor hygiene or irregular cleaning of the dentures can lead to bacterial buildup and subsequently, infection.
Underlying Dental Issues: Some pre-existing dental problems could become exacerbated when you start wearing dentures.
Here are some steps you can take to alleviate discomfort:
Consult Your Dentist: If you're experiencing persistent pain, consult your dentist to rule out any issues with the fit or quality of your dentures.
Adhesive: Using a denture adhesive may help stabilize the dentures, reducing movement and irritation.
Cleaning: Maintain excellent hygiene by cleaning your dentures and gums thoroughly every day.
Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet to lessen the stress on your gums.
If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, it is crucial to consult your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation. Depending on the cause of your discomfort, your dentist may need to adjust your dentures or recommend alternative treatment options.
How long does it take for swollen gums to go away after dental implant surgery?
It's common for patients to experience swelling after dental implant surgery. The duration and extent of the swelling can vary depending on a range of factors, such as the complexity READ MORE
It's common for patients to experience swelling after dental implant surgery. The duration and extent of the swelling can vary depending on a range of factors, such as the complexity of the surgery, your overall health, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions.
Generally speaking, swelling usually peaks within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and then gradually subsides. In most cases, you can expect the swelling to significantly decrease within 3 to 5 days after the surgery, although some residual swelling could linger for up to 10 days or longer. If you've received stitches, the gum tissue usually heals within 7 to 14 days.
To minimize swelling, dentists often recommend:
Use an ice pack on the affected area for 20-minute intervals during the first 48 hours after the surgery. Elevating your head, even while sleeping, helps reduce blood flow to the area, thereby minimizing swelling. Avoid strenuous physical activities for a few days after the surgery.
Following the prescription and over-the-counter medication advice given by your dental surgeon.
However, if the swelling persists for an extended period, becomes increasingly painful, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, pus drainage, or severe discomfort, it's crucial to consult your oral surgeon or healthcare provider promptly as this could indicate an infection or other complications.
Generally speaking, swelling usually peaks within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and then gradually subsides. In most cases, you can expect the swelling to significantly decrease within 3 to 5 days after the surgery, although some residual swelling could linger for up to 10 days or longer. If you've received stitches, the gum tissue usually heals within 7 to 14 days.
To minimize swelling, dentists often recommend:
Use an ice pack on the affected area for 20-minute intervals during the first 48 hours after the surgery. Elevating your head, even while sleeping, helps reduce blood flow to the area, thereby minimizing swelling. Avoid strenuous physical activities for a few days after the surgery.
Following the prescription and over-the-counter medication advice given by your dental surgeon.
However, if the swelling persists for an extended period, becomes increasingly painful, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, pus drainage, or severe discomfort, it's crucial to consult your oral surgeon or healthcare provider promptly as this could indicate an infection or other complications.
