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Guided dental implant surgery, with the help of computers and CT scans, has totally revolutionized the art and science of implant dentistry.
Earlier implant surgery procedures were conducted after taking standard x-rays. The challenge was always that, once the implant dentist began the procedure, he often encountered unexpected issues. A standard x-ray does not allow the dentist to visualize the bone height and width in all three dimensions. Therefore the placement of the implants are decided on the basis of guesswork. Certain bone deformities can be seen only after an incision is made. In the end, he will have to make several compromises and the overall result may not be satisfactory.
With computer-guided dental implant surgery, the dentist views multiple radiographs of the same area. This is done with the help of cone-beam radiography or 3-D CT scans. This can greatly improve the dentist’s visualization. He can view the entire jaw from multiple angles on the computer screen, and, with the help of planning software, the CT images help generate a comprehensive virtual treatment plan.
Who is a good candidate for guided dental implant surgery?Guided implant surgery is particularly useful in patients needing multiple implant surgeries, such as patients who have lost all their teeth. Patients with severe bone loss due to trauma, genetic disorders or diseases are also prime candidates for guided implant surgery. Patients who need quick rehabilitation with implants also prefer guided implant surgery. Although it can also be used when placing single implants.
There are two guided implant systems commonly used today: Nobel guide from Nobel-Bio care and Simplant from Materialise.
What are the advantages of guided dental implant surgery?
There is less guess-work required on the part of the dentist.
- Accurate visualization of the bone height and width is possible.
- Reduced healing time.
- There is considerably less swelling.
- More accurate final result.
- It also allows the dentist to create the permanent crowns before doing the surgery.
- The crowns can be placed soon after the implant surgery is over. Therefore temporary crowns can be avoided.
- Lower cost, due to fewer number of visits.
- With guided implant surgery, patients can receive their implants in hours, instead of weeks or months.
Contact Plano dental implant dentist Dr. Hucklebridge for additional information a no-obligation assessment of your dental implant options.
