In the past, oral surgeons essentially had to guess where to place an implant. They had x-rays, but the images were a 2D representation of a 3D space, so there were limits to the accuracy of implant placement. The process of placing implants has become much more accurate with improvements in the image capturing and computer programs that can ensure accurate placement of your implant retained dentures. Here are some of the procedures and steps of the latest technologies for receiving implants for your dentures:
Conebeam CT Scan: This will be one of the first steps of getting an implant. Unlike the 2D images available in the past, dentists now have CT scans available to them to produce 3D images of your jaw bone. This newer imaging technology exposes patients to safe and relatively low amounts of radiation when compared to other x-ray methods. With this image, your oral surgeon can measure how much bone is available and know if an implant will work with your current bone levels or if you will need a bone graft.
Computer Placement: The computer programs available now allow the dentist to digitally place all the implants where they would like them to go for the best results. The same computer program will then create a custom stent for your mouth with guiding holes, ensuring proper placement. On the day of the dental implant procedure, your doctor will place a the stent on your jaw and temporarily stabilize it in the right place. All of the implants are then placed with the highest accuracy in a quick and efficient manner.
If you have been considering dental implants but were unsure about the accuracy and success rate, be comforted! The technologies have greatly improved and the success rate for cosmetic dental implants has also improved. It’s the right time to fill that empty space in your smile or stabilize those wiggling dentures.