CBCT imaging is a foreign topic for many dental patients, especially when it comes to how this technology is used in the complex implant dentistry process. However, there are benefits to be taken advantage of with this high-tech dental tool, which can help patients enjoy better outcomes from implant treatment. When discussing 3D computer guided implant surgery, patients typically ask Dr. O’Connor the following:
Is 3D Imaging Necessary for Implants?
There are many general dentists who place implants without the use of 3D dental scans—and these procedures are often without issue, as implants typically come with a success rate of over 90%. However, without 3D guided surgery, implant surgery can be a guessing game. Through traditional X-rays, dentists may not be able to see, with detail, all oral structures that are part of the implant process. Patients with compromised oral health may therefore not be best served with the traditional approach and will have to visit a specialist or a different dental office that is better able to meet their needs.
Why Should I Choose 3D Treatment Planning?
As mentioned in discussion of the treatment on our website, CBCT implant surgery is vital in reducing inaccuracies during standard implant surgery where this technology is not used. Computer imaging allows Dr. O’Connor to see where areas of bone are healthiest, so that implants can integrate with ease. Dr. O’Connor can treat patients with dental complications that would otherwise disqualify them for treatment, bone loss being chief among these issues. Computer guided implant dentistry promotes treatment that is precise and supports optimal results.
Are 3D Scans Safe?
Any time an X-ray or other medical images is taken, questions of safety and exposure are important to ask. There are plenty of times in life when X-rays are necessary, such as during accidents or injury, and routine dental appointments. However, it’s important to note that frequency of X-rays is a factor to consider for exposure, i.e. receiving unnecessary or superfluous X-rays may be ill-advised. X-rays with a clear benefit, intended for a specific purpose, are typically recommended for the ideal final results they can provide for patients.
3D scans for the purpose of implant treatment are kept to only a small treatment area – the specific procedure site – and are not applied extraneously, as to avoid unnecessary patient expose. When used in this conservative and precise manner, 3D scans are safe and provide essential benefits.
Ask us Your Questions about Guided Implant Surgery
If you’re curious about 3D computer guided implant surgery for replacing teeth in your smile, contact our office for your consultation.
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