BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional imaging, particularly cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), has made significant contributions to the planning and placement of implants to replace missing teeth. The accuracy of CBCT data can be used to fabricate a surgical guide that transfers the implant planning information to the surgical site to facilitate implant placement. The authors describe a method for applying CBCT data to aid in the planning and placement of implants. METHODS: The authors outline clinical goals for implant planning and placement and describe the anatomical and prosthetic requirements for successful implant placement. They also present imaging solutions, including CBCT scanning and software analysis, to the clinical goals. CONCLUSIONS: Virtual implant planning using CBCT data allows the clinicians to create and visualize the end result before initiating treatment. CBCT scans are accurate and cost effective and can be used to improve communication and coordination of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the desired clinical outcome. Virtual planning allows clinicians to investigate multiple treatment scenarios until the optimum treatment plan is attained. The optimized virtual plan may be converted through modeling to create a surgical guide for clinical implementation. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The precise planning and delivery of implants to replace missing teeth can avert recognized and concealed treatment problems. This process aids the clinician and benefits the patient.
BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional imaging, particularly cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), has made significant contributions to the planning and placement of implants to replace missing teeth. The accuracy of CBCT data can be used to fabricate a surgical guide that transfers the implant planning information to the surgical site to facilitate implant placement. The authors describe a method for applying CBCT data to aid in the planning and placement of implants. METHODS: The authors outline clinical goals for implant planning and placement and describe the anatomical and prosthetic requirements for successful implant placement. They also present imaging solutions, including CBCT scanning and software analysis, to the clinical goals. CONCLUSIONS: Virtual implant planning using CBCT data allows the clinicians to create and visualize the end result before initiating treatment. CBCT scans are accurate and cost effective and can be used to improve communication and coordination of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the desired clinical outcome. Virtual planning allows clinicians to investigate multiple treatment scenarios until the optimum treatment plan is attained. The optimized virtual plan may be converted through modeling to create a surgical guide for clinical implementation. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The precise planning and delivery of implants to replace missing teeth can avert recognized and concealed treatment problems. This process aids the clinician and benefits the patient.