Our Summary

This paper examines the use of computer technology to help in the placement of dental implants. They conducted a detailed search of various databases and reviews to find studies that compared different Computer-Assisted Implant Surgery (CAIS) techniques with each other or with traditional, freehand methods.

They used three measures to assess accuracy: the angle of placement, how much the implant platform deviated, and how much the apex (or tip) of the implant deviated.

They found 33 studies that fit their criteria. All the computer-assisted techniques were more accurate than the freehand method, apart from one technique which used computer assistance only for the initial drilling. The best results came from a combination of ‘static’ and ‘dynamic’ computer-assisted techniques.

However, they caution that the evidence isn’t strong and varies in quality. They suggest more research is needed, taking into account different types of tooth loss and locations in the mouth. Despite these limitations, their findings suggest that computer-assisted surgery can improve the accuracy of dental implant placement.

FAQs

  1. What is Computer-Assisted Implant Surgery (CAIS)?
  2. How does the accuracy of computer-assisted techniques compare to traditional freehand methods in dental implant surgery?
  3. What are the limitations of the studies comparing CAIS techniques with traditional methods?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and successful integration of the implant. This may include avoiding certain hard or sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Additionally, it is important to inform the doctor of any unusual pain, swelling, or other symptoms that may indicate a complication.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from dental implant surgery include:

  1. Patients with missing teeth: Dental implants can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth, providing a long-term solution for restoring functionality and aesthetics.

  2. Patients with inadequate bone density: Dental implants require a certain amount of bone for successful placement. Patients with inadequate bone density may benefit from bone grafting procedures to increase the amount of bone available for implant placement.

  3. Patients with loose or ill-fitting dentures: Dental implants can be used to anchor dentures in place, providing a more stable and secure fit for patients who struggle with loose or ill-fitting dentures.

  4. Patients with periodontal disease: Dental implants can be a good option for patients with periodontal disease who have lost teeth as a result of gum disease. Implants are not susceptible to periodontal disease and can help restore oral health and function.

  5. Patients with a desire for a permanent solution: Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, with proper care and maintenance. Patients who are looking for a permanent solution to tooth loss may benefit from dental implant surgery.

Overall, dental implant surgery may be recommended for patients who have missing teeth, inadequate bone density, loose or ill-fitting dentures, periodontal disease, or a desire for a permanent tooth replacement solution. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified dental professional to determine if dental implant surgery is the right option for their individual needs.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss options for tooth replacement.
  2. Treatment plan is developed, including determining if the patient is a suitable candidate for dental implants.
  3. Patient undergoes imaging scans, such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess bone structure and determine the best placement for the implant.
  4. Dental impressions are taken to create a custom implant for the patient.
  5. Patient receives instructions on pre-surgery care, such as avoiding certain medications and fasting before the procedure.

After dental implant surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to place the implant into the jawbone.
  2. Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising after the surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.
  3. Patient follows post-surgery care instructions, such as eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activities, and practicing good oral hygiene.
  4. Implant fuses with the jawbone over a period of several months in a process called osseointegration.
  5. Once the implant has fully healed, a prosthetic tooth (such as a crown, bridge, or denture) is attached to the implant to restore function and aesthetics.
  6. Patient continues to follow up with the dentist for regular check-ups and maintenance of the implant to ensure its longevity and success.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the benefits of using computer-assisted technology for dental implant surgery?
  2. How does computer-assisted implant surgery compare to traditional, freehand methods in terms of accuracy and success rates?
  3. What specific measures are used to assess the accuracy of implant placement with computer-assisted techniques?
  4. Are there any potential risks or limitations associated with computer-assisted implant surgery that I should be aware of?
  5. How experienced is the dental team in performing computer-assisted implant surgery, and what is their success rate with this technique?
  6. Will I need any additional imaging or scans before undergoing computer-assisted implant surgery?
  7. How long does the procedure typically take, and what is the recovery process like compared to traditional implant surgery?
  8. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions or follow-up appointments I should be aware of after undergoing computer-assisted implant surgery?
  9. What are the expected outcomes and long-term success rates of dental implants placed using computer-assisted surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options or considerations I should be aware of before deciding to undergo computer-assisted implant surgery?

Reference

Authors: Mahardawi B, Jiaranuchart S, Arunjaroensuk S, Dhanesuan K, Mattheos N, Pimkhaokham A. Journal: Clin Oral Implants Res. 2025 Jan;36(1):1-16. doi: 10.1111/clr.14357. Epub 2024 Sep 10. PMID: 39254507