Radiographic Examination for Dental Implants

Radiographic Examination for Dental Implants

• Simple radiographic techniques may be adequate for some cases, but complex cases require 3D imaging with computed tomography (CT) scans.
• CT scans are particularly useful for cases involving posterior mandible sites and large-span edentulous spaces in the maxillary arch.
• CT scans use X-rays to produce sectional images that can be reconstituted using software programs to create multiplane sections.
• Images can be produced as standard radiographic negative images on large sheets, positive images on photographic paper, or images for viewing on a computer monitor.
• The various scan images can be measured for selection of length and diameter of implant.
• Metallic restorations can produce a scatter-like interference pattern that may render a CT scan unreadable.
• Computer-based image software programs allow clinicians to virtually place implants within the CT scan and evaluate relationships between the proposed implants and ridge morphology, anatomic features, and adjacent teeth.
• Planning data can be used to produce anatomical stereolithographic models useful for the planning, simulation, and optimization of complex surgical cases.
• These models can be used to provide patient-specific surgical guides, which translate planning to a drill guide allowing correct angulation and location of planned implant sites.
• CBCT has led to the development of imaging equipment specifically for dental practice, based on the production of a cone-shaped X-ray beam revolving around the object.
• The development of CBCT has led to the concept of computer-guided flapless surgery.
• Mucosa-borne drill guides can be bone, mucosa, or tooth supported, and allow for the precise intraoperative transfer of preoperative planning facilitating the insertion of a prefabricated provisional prosthesis on the day of implant surgery.