Reading Dental Associates

Mercury-Free Dentistry

A material known as amalgam is commonly used by dentists to fill cavities and decayed teeth. Unfortunately, amalgam is partially composed of mercury – a toxic material that research has proven to be harmful to the body, even at minimal levels of exposure. Additionally, mercury is responsible for the abnormal, metallic coloring of traditional dental fillings, and also requires an extensive filtration process before it can be disposed of properly. We are proud to say that our Reading Dental Associates and our experienced staff practices mercury-free dentistry. Every treatment and procedure we offer utilizes mercury-free materials designed with patient safety in mind. Our tooth-colored fillings are composed of strong composite materials that provide added support and protection for your teeth, as well as a more natural-looking color that is barely detectable on the treated tooth. Ultimately, our mercury-free techniques offer you the highest degree of safety without sacrificing results.

What Will I Feel Like after Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery?

On the first day after surgery, you may experience some minor bleeding and pain. You should cover your pillowcase with something so that you don't get any blood on it. Each individual's reaction to surgery varies, and the sensation of pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. A variable amount of swelling can be expected following the surgery. This swelling usually peaks on the second day and should begin resolving on the third day. You can limit the amount of swelling you will have by using ice for the entire first day. The more ice you use the first day, the less swelling you are likely to have on the second day. Please remember to put ice on the first day even if it is somewhat uncomfortable to have the cold next to your skin. On the third day, you will notice that your jaw muscles are stiff, and it is difficult to open your mouth normally. You can apply moist heat to your face on the second and third day allowing your muscles to relax more and open wider. Most of the time you will want to limit your activities for a few days. We ask that you follow your post-operative instructions closely. Doing so will make you as comfortable as possible during the first few days following your procedure. Please allow time for your body to begin healing before resuming an active social, academic, or athletic schedule. Most patients feel like they are over the hump and on their way to recovery in 3 to 5 days.

The Importance of Teeth for Jaw Bone Health

When one or more teeth are missing it can lead to bone loss at the site of the gap. This loss of jaw bone can develop into additional problems, both with your appearance and your overall health. You may experience pain, problems with your remaining teeth, altered facial appearance, and eventually even the inability to speak and/or eat normally. In the same way that muscles are maintained through exercise, bone tissue is maintained by use. Natural teeth are embedded in the jaw bone and stimulate the jaw bone through activities such as chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the alveolar bone, or the portion of the jaw bone that anchors the teeth into the mouth, no longer receives the necessary stimulation it needs and begins to break down, or resorb. The body no longer uses or "needs" the jaw bone, so it deteriorates.

Problems with remaining teeth, including misalignment, drifting, loosening, and loss

What Steps Are Involved in Preparing a Tooth for a Crown?

Preparing a tooth for a crown usually requires two visits to the dentist -- the first step involves examining and preparing the tooth, the second visit involves placement of the permanent crown.