Our Summary

This study compares two methods of placing dental implants: using a 3D-printed drilling guide, and a real-time navigation system. The researchers placed 60 implants on 12 models of lower jaws with missing teeth. Half of the implants were placed with the 3D-printed guide and the other half with the navigation system. They then measured the accuracy of each method using a special type of 3D X-ray.

They found that both methods worked well, but each had its own strengths. The 3D-printed guide was more accurate when it came to the exact placement of the implant. The real-time navigation system was better at getting the angle of the implant right. They also noticed that the real-time system worked best when the drill hole was close to the system’s marker.

In conclusion, the researchers believe that the real-time navigation system could be a reliable tool for placing dental implants. However, they say more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in actual patients.

FAQs

  1. What two methods of placing dental implants were compared in this study?
  2. Which method was found to be more accurate in the exact placement of the dental implant?
  3. What was the real-time navigation system better at in terms of implant placement?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by the dentist or oral surgeon. This may include avoiding certain foods, taking prescribed medications, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments. By following these instructions, the patient can help ensure a successful recovery and long-lasting results from their dental implant surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who have missing teeth and are looking to replace them with dental implants are typically recommended for dental implant surgery. This includes patients with good oral health, enough bone density in their jaw to support the implant, and who are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene post-surgery. Patients who have lost teeth due to injury, decay, gum disease, or other reasons may benefit from dental implant surgery to restore their smile and improve their overall oral health.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with the dentist to discuss treatment options and determine if dental implants are the best solution for the patient’s missing teeth.
  2. Pre-operative evaluation including dental X-rays, CT scans, and impressions of the mouth to create a treatment plan.
  3. Preparing the jawbone for the implant through bone grafting or sinus lift procedures if necessary.
  4. Placement of the dental implant, either using a 3D-printed drilling guide or a real-time navigation system.
  5. Healing period of 3-6 months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration).

After dental implant surgery:

  1. Placement of the abutment, which connects the implant to the prosthetic tooth or crown.
  2. Impressions of the mouth to create a custom-made dental crown that will be attached to the implant.
  3. Placement of the dental crown onto the implant, completing the restoration of the missing tooth.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor the healing process and ensure the implant is successful.
  5. Maintenance of good oral hygiene practices to ensure the longevity of the dental implant.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about dental implant surgery include:

  1. Which method of placing dental implants do you recommend for my specific case, the 3D-printed drilling guide or the real-time navigation system?
  2. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of each method?
  3. How experienced are you in using the chosen method for placing dental implants?
  4. What is the success rate of dental implant surgery using the chosen method?
  5. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for dental implant surgery?
  6. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with dental implant surgery using the chosen method?
  7. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the dental implant surgery?
  8. What is the expected cost of dental implant surgery using the chosen method, and will it be covered by my insurance?
  9. How long can I expect the dental implants to last, and what type of maintenance will be required?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after getting dental implants?

Reference

Authors: Stünkel R, Zeller AN, Bohne T, Böhrnsen F, Wedi E, Raschke D, Kauffmann P. Journal: Int J Implant Dent. 2022 Oct 6;8(1):41. doi: 10.1186/s40729-022-00430-6. PMID: 36198996