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Ans: Hello
This type of tooth decay is rather common in children. Most parents dismiss it as inconsequential because "milk teeth fall off anyway" and do not seek professional advice. I am happy to note that you are concerned and have already consulted a couple of dentists.
As long as your son's decayed teeth are asymptomatic, I would agree with your local dentists that, for now, no procedures should be done.
The logic is simple. A visit to the dentist is stressful even for adults. I imagine it would be even more so for a child of 4 or 5!
If the teeth in question are free from pain or underlying infection, we (the dental fraternity) would rather not expose the child to procedures which could potentially instill in him a lifelong fear of dentists and dental clinics.
However I strongly urge you to take your child for periodic check ups to ensure the decay doesn't spread unchecked and/or can be treated in time if the need arises. Please note if these teeth get infected and the infection is left untreated, the permanent teeth can also get damaged.
Also, you (the parent) need to inspect the said teeth and surrounding gums regularly to spot gum boils or swellings. If you spot any of this or if the child complains of pain please consult your dentist at once.
It goes without saying that he should brush his teeth with even more care. Ideally after every meal. Children cannot be fully trusted to brush their teeth well, so it's always wise for a parent to supervise.
If your son is a fussy eater you could consider giving him Calcium supplements. This will not help his current teeth in any way, but the permanent teeth which are due to erupt a few years later will hopefully be more resistant to decay.
Hope this answers your question.

Ans: Hello
I understand your anxiety. A visit to the dentist can be stressful, especially if you have had a bad experience.

Here are some key factors to help you identify a good dentist:

1. *Qualifications*: Check for a degree from a reputable dental school and valid licenses.

2. *Experience*: Consider a dentist with extensive experience in general dentistry or specialized fields like orthodontics or oral surgery.

3. *Communication*: A good dentist listens attentively, explains procedures clearly, and answers questions patiently.

4. *Chairside manner*: A caring and compassionate attitude can make dental visits less stressful.

5. *Up-to-date technology*: Modern equipment and digital X-rays indicate a commitment to quality care.

6. *Sterilization and hygiene*: Ensure proper sterilization techniques and a clean environment.

7. *Continuing education*: A good dentist stays updated on the latest techniques and advancements.

8. *Patient reviews*: Research online reviews and ask for referrals from satisfied patients.

9. *Professional affiliations*: Membership in organizations like the Indian Dental Association (IDA) or local dental societies indicates a commitment to ethical standards.

10. *Comfort level*: Trust your instincts and choose a dentist with whom you feel comfortable discussing your concerns and treatment options.

11. *Clear treatment plans*: A good dentist explains procedures, costs, and alternatives clearly.

12. *Emergency care*: Find out their policy for handling dental emergencies and after-hours care.

13. *Office hours and location*: Consider a dentist with convenient office hours and a location that suits your needs


By evaluating these factors, you can find a skilled and caring dentist who meets your oral health needs.

Ans: Hello
Dark stains on front teeth can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, causing stains.
2. Coffee, tea, and wine consumption: Chromogens in these beverages can bind to tooth enamel, causing discoloration.
3. Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause significant staining.
4. Trauma or injury: Blood from the injury can seep into the tooth, causing discoloration.
5. Medications: Certain medications, like tetracycline and doxycycline, or iron supplements can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect.
6. Other factors include enamel hypoplasia (caused by a deficiency of Calcium) or fluorosis (caused by exposure to an excess of fluoride during the tooth developmental stage)

To address dark stains on front teeth, consider the following options:

1. Professional scaling and polishing. In severe cases teeth whitening or bleaching may be necessary.
2. Dental bonding or veneers
3. Enamel microabrasion (for fluorosis or enamel hypoplasia)
4. Improved oral hygiene habits
5. Avoiding stain-causing beverages or using a straw
6. Quitting tobacco

Consult a dentist to determine the best course of treatment based on the underlying cause and severity of the stains.

Ans: Hello
For toddlers and young children, it's essential to choose a toothpaste that is safe and effective for their developing teeth and gums. Here are some recommendations:

1. *Fluoride-free toothpaste* (0-2 years): For infants and toddlers, a fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended. Look for a toothpaste specifically designed for this age group, like "Baby Toothpaste" or "Training Toothpaste". Please note that Fluoride, although extremely beneficial when used locally can lead to fluorosis if accidentally ingested. This is the reason toddlers need to use fluoride-free toothpastes.

2. *Children's toothpaste with low fluoride* (2-6 years): For young children, a toothpaste with a low fluoride concentration (around 500-600 ppm) is suitable. This helps prevent fluorosis (white spots on teeth) while still providing cavity protection.

3. *Gentle ingredients*: Opt for a toothpaste with gentle ingredients, to minimize irritation.

5. *Flavor and texture*: Select a toothpaste with a child-friendly flavor and texture to make brushing teeth a fun experience!

Most popular toothpaste brands offer multiple options for toddlers and young children.
In addition to these there are a few brands specially formulated for children which are ethically promoted (not commercially advertised, but sold through chemists on dentists' prescriptions) You may speak to your child's dentist for specific recommendations.

Remember to always supervise your child while brushing teeth and teach them proper oral hygiene habits from an early age!

Ans: Identifying a capable and honest dentist is crucial for your oral health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you find one:

1. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations. They can provide valuable insights into a dentist's work quality and chairside manner.

2. Check credentials: Ensure the dentist has the necessary qualifications, certifications, and licenses. You can verify this information with your state's dental board or professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA).

3. Check online reviews: Look up the dentist on review platforms. Pay attention to the overall rating and read the comments to understand the strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, do not rely on reviews alone as these can be manipulated, fake reviews can be easily generated.

4. Evaluate their communication style: A good dentist should listen to your concerns, explain procedures clearly, and answer questions patiently. Ensure you feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your treatment.

5. Assess their facility and equipment: A well-organized and modern dental office with up-to-date equipment is a good sign.

6. Check their approach to preventive care: A capable dentist emphasizes preventive care, including regular cleanings, exams, and education on oral hygiene.

7. Be wary of over-treatment: A honest dentist will not recommend unnecessary procedures. Be cautious if you feel pressured into extensive treatments.

8. Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you don't click with the dentist, it's okay to explore other options.

10. Schedule a consultation: Many dentists offer initial consultations or meet-and-greets. Use this opportunity to assess their approach, ask questions, and gauge your comfort level.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a capable and honest dentist who prioritizes your oral health and well-being.

Ans: Hello
You have not mentioned whether you have consulted a dentist for your gum inflammation and were treated in the past for the same.
The most common cause for gum inflammation is poor oral hygiene. Inadequate or improper brushing can lead to accumulation of tartar or calculus which in turn leads to gum inflammation. This tartar or calculus has to be cleaned (the process is called scaling) periodically by a qualified dentist in order to maintain gum health. The recommended frequency can be determined by your dentist after periodic check ups.
If you have gum inflammation despite regular check ups and cleaning, other factors could be responsible.
Certain medicines which need to be taken on a regular basis are known to cause swelling of the gums. Hormonal imbalances can also affect the gums. To rule out these extra-oral factors, your medical history and medication will have to evaluated and adjusted by a General Physician.

Ans: Hello Venkatesh
Please consult your dentist.
In my opinion gum polyps cannot be treated with medicines alone. They may require surgical removal. Please do not be intimidated. It's a very, very minor procedure.
Also the cause has to be identified and suitably treated to prevent recurrence. So please do not rely on home remedies or medicines alone.

Ans: Hello
You are not alone.
Tooth erosion refers to loss of natural tooth structure (enamel/dentine) due to acidic action. Tooth erosion is relatively common as many of us suffer from hyperacidity in varying degrees. Hyperacidity can be caused by a variety of factors. Stress, lack of sleep, irregular meal timings, poor dietary choices, etc
Enamel erosion can make your teeth extremely sensitive to hot, cold, sweet or sour elements in our diet.
Enamel loss due to acidic erosion can be exacerbated by aggressive brushing, use of excessive or abrasive toothpastes. This is referred to as tooth abrasion.
While loss of natural tooth structure due to erosion or abrasion can never be got back, there are ways to treat the symptoms of erosion. Kindly consult your dentist who can evaluate the extent of damage and suggest a suitable remedy. It could be as simple as using a desensitising medicated toothpaste to "desensitise" your teeth. Or could require the placement of fillings, laminates or crowns.
You may also need to consult your General Physician to control your hyperacidity.
For starters, you should cut down on all acidic food and carbonated drinks. And also learn to brush your teeth gently with a minimal amount of toothpaste.
Hope this answers your query

Ans: Hello sir/M'am,
How often you need to change your toothbrush depends entirely on your tooth brushing habits. If you're inclined to brush vigorously, exerting a lot of pressure (which is not good, you need to be gentle) then you may need to change your brush frequently.
If you use a HARD brush, it will last you longer. SUPER SOFT brushes will last the least. I normally recommend MEDIUM brushes if your gums are healthy.
The Golden rule, however, is to change your toothbrush when it starts to "flower". When the bristles curl outwards like the petals of a blossoming flower.

Ans: Hello
You can safely go ahead with whatever dental treatment you need. But please inform your dentist about your medical history and what medication you take. Also consult your physician about the planned dental treatment and what medication your dentist thinks you may need to take during the course of the treatment.

Ans: Hello
It’s sad that you've been suffering for the past 4 years and no lasting solution has been provided. It is quite possible that your problem is not dental in origin. You have clearly stated that you have consulted several dentists (including a TMJ specialist) so it is safe to assume that you no longer have any untreated dental infection or abnormality.
My advice to you would be to consult a reputed Neurologist or Pain Management specialist.

Ans: Hello,
Please visit your dentist for a basic consultation. If the enamel of your teeth has worn away due to acidic erosion or excessive abrasion he will likely recommend a suitable desensitising toothpaste.
If you suffer from hyperacidity or acid reflux please consult your physician for proper guidance

Ans: Hello Suresh
To answer your second question first, milk teeth (also called Deciduous teeth) are usually shed by the age of 12-13 yrs. So in all likelihood all the teeth currently visible in your son's mouth are permanent teeth. Please note his wisdom teeth (or third molars) will erupt at a later stage. Typically, between 18 and 25.
Please consult your dentist to find out why your son's teeth are discoloured and whether they need cleaning or whitening

Ans: Hello
Please see your dentist first. Let him rule out decayed teeth/ infected gums/ mouth breathing as being the likely causes of your problem. If he finds no abnormalities he may ask you to consult an ENT Surgeon who will take the investigation forward.

Ans: Xerostomia, though not life-threatening, is serious enough to warrant examination and treatment. The symptoms, though trivial and manageable at first, could worsen if left untreated. So please do not neglect it. Please consult a dentist to rule out oral causative factors. Once those are ruled out it may be necessary to consult an ENT Surgeon and perhaps an Endocrinologist until the cause is known and suitable treatment initiated.

Ans: Hello
1.Yes, this is a permanent solution. Please note she'll have to continue wearing braces for some time even after the gap has closed. This is to ensure that the teeth have stabilised in their new positions and will not return to their original positions. If the braces are discontinued abruptly there is a chance of the gap reopening.
2. After the active treatment period and the stabilisation period are over there will be no restrictions and she can start eating and drinking like normal

Ans: Hello
The toothpaste you mentioned is a desensitizing toothpaste. It helps by forming a chemical barrier over the sensitive dentine, thus reducing the discomfort you feel when you have anything cold, sweet or sour. But it should be used daily for a sufficiently long period (typically a few weeks) to have the desired result.

Ans: Hello,
Tooth cleaning (Scaling and polishing) will not damage ceramic or natural tooth enamel. Please do not have any apprehensions on this issue. The equipment used for scaling (ultrasonic/piezo scalers) are designed to be very gentle and your dentist has the necessary skills to avoid causing any damage.

Ans: Hello
You can easily become a member of the Indian Dental Association (IDA) regardless of your current location of residence or practice.
Just follow this link and register
https://membership.ida.org.in/

Ans: Hello
Hypersalivation (excessive saliva production) can be caused by many factors. To find the root cause of your condition these factors will have to be systematically ruled out.
For a start, you could try switching your sleeping position and check if saliva still accumulates in your mouth. Like when you sleep on your back, for instance.
Next would be to consult your dentist to rule out tooth decay or gum infection. If that is ruled out you should consult your General Physician to check for other infections, allergies, other underlying conditions like acid reflux, respiratory infection, etc
The underlying cause, once determined, can easily be treated.

Ans: Hello

Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
Please have her oral health evaluated by a dentist. There can be many causes for bad breath. It could be something simple like dehydration, or inadequate brushing. Or something a little more serious like decayed teeth, infected gums or even infections of the respiratory or digestive systems. Once the exact cause is determined it can easily be treated.

Ans: Hello
A bridge is an economical option to replace missing teeth provided you have strong, healthy anchor teeth on either side of the gap. But if, as you say, the remaining teeth are also not in good shape then implants should be considered. Please note your gums and jawbone should be healthy in order to support implants. Please consult a good Prosthodontist (a dentist who specialises in teeth replacement) to get your oral health evaluated and find the best solution

Ans: Hello
Orthodontic treatment (realignment of crooked teeth) should ideally be done by the late twenties or early thirties. As results are more predictable in younger patients. But it may still be possible at this stage. Please consult a competent Orthodontist who will evaluate the condition of your gums and bone and guide you

Ans: Hello.
No. A dentist is not supposed to prescribe hypertension medicines. He would ask you to consult a general physician for the same

Ans: Hi Arijit
A white coating on the tongue is usually caused by food debris, dead cells or bacteria. It can look scary but it usually isn't. Please use a soft brush or tongue scraper to clean the tongue and it should be good in a few days.
Bad breath or "halitosis" can have many causes such as decayed teeth, infected gums or even respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. A mouthwash can give only limited and transient relief. Please consult a better qualified dentist, or an ENT surgeon who should be able to identify the cause and find a permanent solution

Ans: Dear Rohit
Teeth cleaning done by trained dental professionals DOES NOT damage teeth or enamel. Even for removal of hard deposits (tartar/calculus) which have collected on teeth we use vibrating instruments known as ultrasonic or piezo scalers which cannot damage tooth enamel. Unlike the high-speed rotating diamond-tipped tools which we use for procedures that need cutting tooth structure. Hope this puts your doubts to rest.

Ans: Hello
The cost of treatment ranges from ?150000 to ?350000. The exact estimate can be given by a trained dental professional after a careful clinical evaluation. Please note that "Invisalign" is a brand. There are other brands of aligners and the cost of treatment may vary across brands

Ans: Hi Amol,
I understand your concern. Dry or chapped lips though usually not painful are expected to heal in a few days. Creams can only give temporary relief. The reason for your dry lips could be one of many. Dry weather or dehydration, for instance. Allergies, vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalance or a mild infection.
A dermatologist (skin specialist) would be better qualified to diagnose and treat your condition.
Please consult a competent dermatologist. I'm sure your condition is treatable.

Ans: Hello
The most common causes for chapped lips are dry weather or dehydration. They should heal with a little self-help in 2 to 3 weeks. If they don't, there's a possibility of underlying conditions causing it. Such as vitamin deficiency or infection.
The same holds true for gum bleeding. If the bleeding was caused only by local factors such as build-up of tartar and poor oral hygiene then the bleeding should stop or at least reduce substantially after scaling. If it hasn't, we need to rule out underlying causes.
Both problems are easily treatable once the cause is identified. Please consult a competent dermatologist/dentist.

Ans: Hello
The burning sensation in your mouth raises the suspicion of a chronic infection. But this can be easily treated with the right medication (tablets and oral creams) which your dentist will prescribe after a thorough clinical examination.
Since you say you've had this for the last 2 months I suggest you see your dentist immediately.

Ans: Hello,
First of all your dentist will have to determine the cause of the discolouration after a careful examination. Only then can he advise you how it can be corrected. You may have to get your teeth cleaned (Scaling and polishing) by your dentist. In some cases, bleaching may be necessary. Do consult your dentist.

Ans: Hello Imran,
From your description it appears that your dentist built up and restored the damaged part of your tooth with bonded composite restorative material. It's normal for this material to fade, discolour or weaken over the years. The same procedure can be repeated if necessary

Ans: Hello Mahesh,
It is absolutely essential to chew on both sides. If you use only one side to masticate you are subjecting the teeth and muscles of that one side to undue pressure. It could lead to pain in the jaw muscles or joint.
If something is preventing you from biting on the other side kindly consult your dentist and get corrective treatment.

Ans: First of all, it's important to realise that no solution or treatment can be guaranteed to last a lifetime. At best you can hope for and seek long-term solutions. Even so, your oral health and hygiene will have to be reviewed periodically and corrective action taken as and when necessary.
To prevent further decay and to preserve your restored teeth in good health you need to brush/floss well at least twice a day. Preferably after every meal. And you need to see your dentist every 6 months.
Please consult your dentist who can evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums and then suggest the best possible treatment for you

Ans: Hi
Teeth bleaching aids contain high concentrations of chemicals (peroxide) which are potentially harmful for the teeth and gums. It is best to get this procedure done under the supervision of a qualified dentist.

Ans: Then you need not get them extracted. Just be patient and allow them to fall naturally.

Ans: Hello
You can certainly get them extracted. A few precautions need to be taken.
You need to get prior approval from your treating Cardiac surgeon/physician. If your health parameters are all normal he will give you his approval. He would ask you to stop taking blood thinners (if you're taking any) a couple of days before the scheduled extractions. Also you need to take a course of antibiotics.
It’s very important that you keep both your Dentist and physician informed about your heart condition and your impending tooth extractions.

Ans: Hi
By "NHS" I assume you mean the National Health Service (the publicly funded Healthcare system in the UK). If yes, I'm afraid only a dentist who has worked in the UK can answer your question satisfactorily.
It is safe to assume that NHS crowns and fillings will be of a slightly lower - and more affordable - quality than the options available in private.

Ans: Hi
Sorry to hear that even after two months your RCTs have not been completed to your satisfaction. There could be a variety of reasons why this is happening. Despite the impressive advances in Dental treatment procedures we still see some cases that are untreatable. And while we spare no effort to save natural teeth, in some cases extraction becomes unavoidable. What is important is that you get complete relief from pain/discomfort. Whether to extract it or continue with the treatment is a call you have to take in consultation with your dentist.

Ans: Hello
By "not so strong" do you mean that your teeth are more prone to decay (cavities) and chip off easily?
If so, your teeth could be deficient in Calcium. I'm assuming you have always maintained good oral hygiene. Unfortunately calcium supplements taken after childhood do not help as tooth formation is already complete by then.
You might benefit from using certain special toothpastes which claim to remineralise teeth. But, in general, it means you need to take extra care with your rinsing/brushing/flossing to keep your teeth healthy.
If by "not so strong" you mean your teeth are shaking or you cannot confidently bite something hard, the fault lies not in your teeth but with your gums and supporting structures. Weak or infected gums can be easily treated. Please visit your dentist so that the problem can be diagnosed and appropriately treated

Ans: Hello
Your dentist, after a clinical examination, will tell you why your teeth are discolored. It's possible that there are accumulated stains and/or tartar. If that's the case, a simple procedure called Scaling and polishing (cleaning) will restore your teeth to whiteness. If your teeth have always been yellowish - if they're naturally yellowish - they cannot be whitened by cleaning alone. You may need to get your teeth bleached.
Please go by your dentist's advice.

Ans: Hi Anil
Most dentists stress the fact of not replacing proper oral health care of brushing and flossing with mouthwash. It’s more important to have a well-established routine of cleaning your teeth twice a day than using mouthwash. There is no harm in using a mouthwash once or twice a week or even once every day so long as you do not neglect your brushing and flossing.
While mouthwashes used in moderation have well documented benefits they can never be a substitute for thorough tooth brushing and flossing. And if you brush well and floss your teeth regularly you may never need a mouthwash!
Please note mouthwashes that contain high levels of alcohol can irritate the tissues in the mouth. Excessive mouthwash use can cause mouth dryness, leading to potential tooth sensitivity.
A lot of people believe that mouthwash cures halitosis (bad breath) when in reality the minty effect is short-lived. There is a difference between masking the odour and treating the condition.

Ans: Hi Chandan
Apart from obvious causes such as cold/hot or dry weather, dehydration, sunburn etc you could be having an underlying medical condition e. g. Vitamin deficiency or some allergy which might potentially lead to recurrent chapping of lips. I do not think this is connected to any dental issue. Please consult your family physician so he can investigate and treat the root cause, if any. Until then take care to have balanced meals and stay hydrated

Ans: Dear Sandeep
If excessive salivation (hypersalivation) is caused by tooth decay or gum disease then seeing your dentist and getting yourself treated will definitely help. However hypersalivation can have other causes, too. So you may need to consult your family physician or an ENT specialist for further investigation and treatment. A Speech therapist may also be able to help you.

Ans: Hello
To whiten teeth one has to undergo a procedure called "bleaching". This is not the same as "polishing".
Polishing can only remove external stains. It cannot lighten the underlying natural colour.
Bleaching, on the other hand, is done with the help of chemicals (usually peroxide) which get activated upon exposure to laser (visible blue light). With this procedure it is possible to achieve noticeable whitening of teeth.

Ans: Hello Deepak
Class V dental restorations are needed when you get dental caries (decay) or cavities on the neck portions of your teeth (that is, the smooth surfaces of your teeth which are close to your gums) and face the cheeks/lips or your tongue.
Unfortunately fillings/restorations are the only remedy. I suggest you get the needful done soon

Ans: Hello Vijay
Please consult your dentist soon rather than suffer. A clinical examination will usually reveal which tooth/teeth are affected. It's very likely you have deep untreated decay somewhere. From your symptoms it appears that there's a low grade infection somewhere. Since you cannot precisely pinpoint which tooth is paining a full jaw Xray (called an OPG) may also be necessary in order to reach a proper diagnosis.
Once the affected tooth/teeth are identified and the appropriate treatment done you should be able to eat and drink comfortably.

Ans: Hello Saisuresh
Studies have shown that the bacteria which cause gum infections can travel through the bloodstream and infect the heart valves.
So yes, if your oral hygiene is poor you stand the risk of getting cardiac complications.
This is why regular dental check ups are important even if you have no bothersome signs or symptoms