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Common Complications After Wisdom Teeth Removal

November 8, 2024 Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that can alleviate pain, prevent overcrowding, and protect your oral health. While generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential complications that can arise after surgery. Choosing an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, such as Dr. Streelman of Mercer Island Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, can significantly minimize your risk for complications after wisdom teeth removal and maximize......

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How To Help Bone Grafts Last

October 8, 2024 Bone grafting is a remarkable procedure that can restore the foundation of your smile, paving the way for dental implants and improved oral health. But like any investment, it’s important to take steps to ensure its longevity and maximize its benefits. With proper care and attention, you can safeguard the results of your bone grafting surgery and enjoy a healthy, vibrant smile for years to......

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Osseointegration: The Secret Behind Dental Implants

September 8, 2024 The loss of a tooth can significantly impact our confidence and quality of life. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a remarkable solution that goes beyond traditional dentures and bridges: dental implants. But have you ever wondered what makes dental implants so successful? The answer lies in a fascinating biological process called osseointegration. In fact, it is this very process that makes dental implants the gold standard......

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Is There a Difference Between Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts?

August 9, 2024 Dental implants have revolutionized tooth replacement, offering a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. However, successful implant placement relies heavily on a crucial factor – a strong and healthy jawbone. When bone loss occurs due to missing teeth or other factors, it can compromise the stability and success of dental implants. This is where bone grafting comes in.  But sometimes, another procedure called a......

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Why Would an Orthodontist Recommend a Tooth Extraction?

July 8, 2024 Orthodontists play a crucial role in achieving that perfect smile through orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners. But sometimes, achieving optimal results may involve collaboration with an oral surgeon. While the goal of both orthodontists and oral surgeons is to preserve oral health and give you a beautiful smile, an orthodontist might recommend visiting an oral surgeon for tooth extractions. Necessary Extractions for a......

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How Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?

June 7, 2024 Wisdom teeth, those third molars emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood, can be a source of curiosity – and sometimes, concern. While some wisdom teeth emerge flawlessly, blending seamlessly into your smile, others become impacted. But what exactly causes wisdom teeth to become trapped beneath the gum tissue or bone? Lack of Space: A Top Reason Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted Our jaws have evolved......

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The Protective Value of Dental Implants

May 7, 2024 A radiant smile is a powerful asset, boosting confidence and making a lasting impression. But what happens when a missing tooth disrupts your smile? Dental implants are widely recognized as the gold standard for tooth replacement, offering a natural-looking and long-lasting solution. However, their benefits extend far beyond simply replacing a missing tooth. Dental implants play a crucial role in safeguarding the health and longevity......

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What Are Zygomatic Dental Implants?

March 11, 2024 Zygomatic implants are a type of dental implant that is specifically designed for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Unlike traditional dental implants, which are placed in the jawbone, zygomatic implants are angled and much longer, allowing them to be securely placed in the patient’s cheekbone (zygoma). The zygoma is a very dense bone and provides excellent long-term support for missing teeth.......

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How Soon After a Tooth Extraction Should I Replace a Tooth?

March 11, 2024 Losing a tooth can be a stressful experience, but the good news is that modern dentistry offers a variety of solutions to restore your smile and oral health. One of the most important decisions you’ll face after a tooth extraction is tooth replacement. While regaining a complete smile is a priority, how soon should I replace the missing tooth? The answer, like many things in...

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How Do I Promote a Successful Bone Grafting Experience?

March 11, 2024 Bone grafting is a common surgical procedure that plays a vital role in oral surgery. By strategically adding bone material to your jaw, bone grafting helps create a strong foundation for dental implants, ultimately leading to a restored smile and improved oral health. While the procedure itself is a success, understanding how to optimize your experience before, during, and after surgery can significantly contribute to...

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Protect Your Implants: Preventing Peri-Implantitis

December 13, 2023 Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement, and one of the most common reasons is their longevity. Dental implants typically last quite a bit longer than any other form of tooth replacement. In fact, with the right hygiene and care, dental implants may last a long time. But, while implant failure is rare, one of the most common reasons why it...

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