Predictable implant placement with a diagnostic/surgical template and advanced radiographic imaging.

The technique described facilitates precise dental implant placement. A barium-coated template with external guide wires used in conjunction with a computed tomography scan and interactive software may provide superior presurgical diagnostics, treatment planning, and prosthetically directed implant placement. Measurements predetermined on the computed tomography scan can be transferred accurately to the diagnostic/surgical template by use of a precision milled cylinder placed into the template at the proper angulation and linear dimensions. The diagnostic/surgical template shows the surgeon the optimal position for implant placement, thus establishing greater clinical confidence when placing implants.