3D Dental CT Scan & Computer Guided Implant Surgery

“Taking 3D Dental CT Scan for dental implant is considered as standard of care these days. Many dentists don’t take CT Scan before the implant or have to send patient out to other places to take CT Scan. Since I have CT Scan at my office, I can take the image in my office at reduced cost to patient. I try to stay on top of technology to provide my patients with the best care they deserve.”

Dr. Huh

Rapha Dental has XMind Trium from Acteon for its Scanner. Click here for more information!

It can be used as a regular dental panoramic X ray and also used for CT Scan.

With Computer Guided Implant Surgery, which is based on CT Scan and Surgical Guide, Implants can be placed easily and precisely.

Here’s video explaining what computer guided Implant Surgery is.

 

What are the Main Benefits of Using Computer-Guided Implant Surgery and Dental CT Scan?

The main benefits of using computer-guided surgery include precise and accurate implant placement.

The ability to visualize vital anatomical structures allows you to better preserve them during guided surgery.

 

In comparison, while traditional surgical guides can provide a predictable outcome, they tend to be trickier to use, especially in the absence of any anatomical references.

Detailed treatment planning beforehand helps to reduce or eliminate unexpected events during surgery.

 

Often the time required for implant surgery can be substantially reduced, which is of great benefit to the patient. When considering all these advantages, it begs the question: why do relatively few clinicians use this technology?

 

Are There Any Drawbacks?

One of the main drawbacks of guided implant surgery is the initial cost of investing in specialized surgical equipment and planning software, as well as the time needed for training.

While computer-guided implant surgery may be more comfortable and quicker for the patient, it’s not unusual for clinicians to spend more time planning the surgery compared to traditional implant treatments.

 

However, the technology required for computer-guided surgery is becoming less expensive; as the advantages become clearer, it’s likely more practices will invest in the necessary equipment and training.

 

When is Using Computer-Guided Implant Surgery and Dental CT Scan Advisable?

Computer-guided implant surgery can be particularly useful in certain situations.

You may wish to consider this treatment option if the patient requires three or more implants to be placed sequentially. Or when implant placement is critical to the success of the proposed restoration.

Patients who have problems with the structure or volume of their bone. Or require significant alteration of bony anatomy, may benefit from computer-guided implant surgery.

Computer-guided surgery can help to reduce problems concerning the proximity of existing implants or adjacent teeth.

People who are fully edentulous or patients who require immediate extraction followed by immediate implant placement could be suitable for this type of treatment.

 

Despite the advantages, guided implant surgery isn’t necessary for all situations and you may have been routinely and successfully placing implants freehand or without guided surgery for years or even decades.