Our Summary

This research paper is a thorough review of studies comparing two methods of dental implant surgery: computer-guided and freehand. The researchers looked at how much bone was lost around the implant, the rate of complications, and how long the implants lasted. They found 1508 related studies and after a detailed review, they found 4 studies that fit their criteria. These 4 studies involved 154 patients who had a total of 597 dental implants and were followed up for an average of 2.25 years. The results showed that there was no significant difference between the two methods in terms of bone loss, complications, or how long the implants lasted. In other words, both methods are equally effective.

FAQs

  1. What were the two methods of dental implant surgery compared in the research?
  2. How many studies and patients were included in the final analysis?
  3. Did the study find any significant difference between computer-guided and freehand methods in terms of bone loss, complications, or longevity of the implants?

Doctor’s Tip

Tip: One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and success of the implant. This may include avoiding hard or sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments with your dentist.

Suitable For

Generally, dental implant surgery is recommended for patients who have missing teeth and are in good overall health. However, there are certain types of patients who may be particularly recommended for dental implant surgery:

  1. Patients with missing teeth: Dental implants are a good option for patients who have one or more missing teeth. Implants can provide a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.

  2. Patients with good oral health: Patients with good oral health, including healthy gums and sufficient bone density, are good candidates for dental implant surgery. Good oral hygiene practices are essential for the success of dental implants.

  3. Patients with sufficient bone density: Adequate bone density is necessary to support dental implants. Patients with insufficient bone density may require bone grafting procedures before undergoing dental implant surgery.

  4. Patients with realistic expectations: Patients considering dental implant surgery should have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. They should understand the potential risks and benefits of dental implants and be committed to following post-operative care instructions.

  5. Patients with stable medical conditions: Patients with stable medical conditions, such as well-controlled diabetes or heart disease, may be suitable candidates for dental implant surgery. It is important for patients to disclose their medical history and any medications they are taking to their dentist before undergoing the procedure.

Overall, dental implant surgery can be a good option for patients who are missing teeth and are in good overall health. It is important for patients to consult with their dentist to determine if they are suitable candidates for dental implant surgery.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  • Patient consults with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants.
  • Patient undergoes a thorough examination, including X-rays and possibly a CT scan, to assess bone density and determine the best placement for the implants.
  • Treatment plan is developed, including the number of implants needed and the timeline for surgery.
  • Patient may need to undergo bone grafting or other procedures to prepare the jawbone for implant placement.

During dental implant surgery:

  • Patient receives local anesthesia to numb the area where the implants will be placed.
  • Oral surgeon or periodontist makes an incision in the gum tissue and drills a hole into the jawbone to place the implant.
  • Implant is screwed into place and gum tissue is stitched back up.
  • Patient may experience some discomfort and swelling after surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.

After dental implant surgery:

  • Patient will need to follow post-operative care instructions, including avoiding hard or sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments with the dentist.
  • Implants will need time to osseointegrate, or fuse with the jawbone, which can take several months.
  • Once the implants have fully healed, the dentist will attach abutments and dental crowns to complete the restoration.
  • Patient will need to continue practicing good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure the implants remain healthy and functional.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with dental implant surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. How many dental implants have you performed and what is your success rate?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and how will I be monitored?
  5. Will I need a bone graft or sinus lift before the implant surgery?
  6. How long do dental implants typically last and what is the success rate of implants in general?
  7. What are the steps involved in the dental implant surgery process and how long will it take?
  8. What type of aftercare will be required following the surgery and how can I ensure the long-term success of the implants?
  9. Will I need to follow a specific diet or make any lifestyle changes after getting dental implants?
  10. What is the cost of dental implant surgery and are there any financing options available?

Reference

Authors: Yogui FC, Verri FR, de Luna Gomes JM, Lemos CAA, Cruz RS, Pellizzer EP. Journal: Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021 Feb;50(2):242-250. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2020.08.004. Epub 2020 Sep 10. PMID: 32921557