Candidates for Guided Implant Surgery: Custom Dentistry Solutions
The team at our Lincoln, NE dental practice would like to consider some of the basics of guided implant surgery and then consider who an ideal candidate for this procedure might be.
Technology Used to Custom Plan the Procedure
There are a few types of diagnostic technology that are commonly used as part of the planning process. These include:
- Cone Beam Scans - This advanced form of dental imaging creates a 3D model of the patients jawbone. The high-resolution images can be rotated to assess implant placement, and offers dentists highly detailed information about the structures of the mouth.
- Nobel Biocare™ - This state of the art software helps with the planning process of any implant dentistry procedure, allowing dentists to predict the outcomes of treatment and even reduce surgery times.
In essence, any person who is a good candidate for dental implants is an ideal candidate for guided implant surgery.
General Candidacy for Dental Implants
Good candidates for dental implants are people who are missing a tooth or multiple teeth. They should be in good overall health to undergo an oral surgery procedure. Whether a patient requires a single tooth replaced or all their teeth replaced, there is a dental implant solution available.
Bone and Gum Tissue Density
Dental implants are surgically embedded into the jawbone and gum tissue of a patient’s mouth. During the surgical recovery, a process called osseointegration occurs, which essentially allows the dental implant to function as if it were a natural tooth root.
Patients must have sufficient bone and gum density in order to support the an implant. When patients lack sufficient hard and soft tissue density, there are some options to consider:
- Bone Grafting Surgery - This form of hard tissue augmentation uses donor bone or artificial bone to increase density to support an implant.
- Gum Grafting Surgery - Soft tissue augmentation uses soft tissue from the patient’s own palate or synthetic soft tissue to help improve the gum density along the dental arch following tooth loss.
- A Dental Implant Alternative - Since both of the above surgeries increase the cost and time involved in the dental implants procedure, some people may opt for an alternative to dental implants.
Questions of Cost and Affordability
Implant dentistry costs more than getting a removable denture or bridge. While financing plans and monthly payment options can make implant dentistry more affordable, it may not be the ideal solution for you. Keep costs in mind when making your treatment decisions.
Knowing the Risks and Benefits
Guided implant surgery candidates should be aware of all the risks and benefits associated with implant dentistry. The guided implant technology enhances the already numerous benefits of the dental implants process, yet risks following the initial surgery still remain.
Realistic Expectations about Implant Dentistry
Ultimately, patients should always have realistic expectations about implant dentistry, from the cost associated with the dental implants procedure to the months-long healing process after the surgery is performed. Realistic expectations tend to improve patient satisfaction and overall results.
Learn More About Guided Implant Surgery
For more information about guided dental implants, be sure to contact an experienced dentist and oral surgeon. Dr. Andrew R. Glenn and his entire team will help you have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.
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