Computer Guided Dental Implant Placement utilizes Invivo software along with our in office Prexion CBCT unit to plan the perfect implant surgery. This software utilizes an interactive 3D computer imaging system that allows us to visualize “slices” of jawbone anatomy from several perspectives and develop an individual treatment plan based on technical data derived from the virtual assessment. Implant guides can be developed for a single tooth or an entire arch for endentulous patients.
During computer guided implant surgery, Dr. Coello can determine, through virtual implant software, the best area of jawbone structure and integrity to place the implant and also determine the correct implant size before ever touching your mouth. The information gathered is extremely accurate, allowing us to visualize the precise placement of the simulated implants. It helps us locate important internal structures and also allows the measurement of bone quality and quantity directly from these images.
How does it work?
At your first visit, we will take an impression of your upper and lower jaw to determine the proper size and spacing required. In addition, we will also capture CBCT Scan.
Using CT scan technology we can create a three-dimensional model of the surgical site and with the help of CAD/CAM surgical guide, optimum placement of implants is achieved.
Once the implant has been planned virtually, a surgical guide will be made to be used during surgery.
The final step is surgery itself, which is surprisingly comfortable for patients because the jawbone has no nerve endings, therefore in most cases little anesthesia is required. Implant placement could be done under local, oral or IV sedation. Dr. Coello will discuss your different options in sedation in advance. Once the implant has been placed, It takes 3-4 months for the implant to properly fuse to bone. After the implants are fully healed, the restorative phase can begin.
Good hygiene, eating habits and regular checkups are all part of the recommended care for your new dental implants.
Success of dental implants
One of the reasons why dental implants have a very high success rate is because they deliver better results than fixed bridges or removable dentures. The best thing about dental implants is that they help in preserving the adjacent and supporting bones. Dental implants are surgically embedded into the jawbone where they then fuse with the bone to provide a strong, stable base for a crown or other dental prosthesis. Jawbones need constant pressure to grow and be healthy. Lack of this pressure causes bone deterioration. Chewing is the only source of pressure on the jawbones; hence wherever there is a missing tooth- the precious bone in that area of the jaw will eventually resorb.
Dental implants success is also because of drastic improvements in dental techniques and methods. Biocompatibility is one of the crucial factors that determine the success of a dental implant. This means that the material used should be compatible to your body. Computer guided surgeries and the use of CT scans have also contributed significantly to the success of dental implants. Another important factor that determines the success rate is the condition of the bone tissue. It is a well known fact that for a successful implant, good oral health and good bone health is of great importance. Expertly placed, under suitable conditions, an implant can last a lifetime.
Complications of dental implants
Implant fracture – This is generally caused by an improper implant size, improper positioning of the implant or excessive load. In this case the implant has to be replaced.
Implant moving – This can be caused by lack of sufficient bone, failure of integration between the implant and bone, or excessive teeth grinding and forceful biting by the patient. This problem can often be resolved without removal of the implant.
Peri-implantitis – The most common dental implant problem is swelling and inflammation of the tissue surrounding the implant. When bacteria or other organisms build up in the area around the dental implant, they cause this type of inflammation or swelling. If untreated, it can eventually cause bone loss and the implant failure. In order to treat this, your doctor should prescribe antiseptic mouthwash and antibiotics as well as a thorough cleaning of the area and removal of plaque build up. The dentist may need to remove the implant while the infected area is healing and place a new implant later.
In summation, Implants cannot be placed in areas with inadequate bone support. Bone grafting and other augmentation techniques may be utilized to ensure success. Positioning and location of dental implants are key factors as well. CT Scan technology and surgical guides are often used today to significantly reduce this all important risk factor. Oral hygiene and certain medical conditions also play a great roll in dental implantology. Despite all potential complications, dental implants today have a very high success rate in the U.S.
Implants vs Dentures and Bridges
In the past, dentures and bridgework were the main options available for patients with missing or seriously decayed or damaged teeth. However, dentures and bridgework are not ideal solutions as they do not look or feel nearly as natural as a real set of teeth. That is why dental implants are proving to be such a popular and successful restoration alternative. Dentures are made more secure and comfortable when affixed to a dental implant, giving you the freedom to smile, talk and eat with comfort and confidence.
In addition, since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that can often accompany bridgework and dentures.
The most important advantage a dental implant has over a bridge is that it stands alone and does not need the support of the adjacent teeth. While putting a bridge in place, the adjacent teeth are modified (capped or crowned to be exact) to support the new addition, and that can lead to future complications. However, an implant is fitted directly into the bone – which earlier supported the lost tooth – so it does not need the support of adjacent teeth.
Dental implants are also recommended for people with multiple lost teeth. They can all be put onto a bridge that is implanted into the bone, and the same can also be done for the whole set of teeth.
Due to their great strength and their natural appearance, dental implants are usually much preferred over alternative options such as dentures and dental bridges. Dental implants also provide a longer-lasting restoration option than the above alternatives. In rare cases an implant may not be the best option for you. Past or present medical history, level and quality of bone, certain medications all play a role in deciding whether or not you are a good candidate for dental implant(s).
Restoring Implants
When investing in dental implants, it’s important to have the restorative procedure performed by an experienced dentist. Dr.Coello is specifically trained in such restorative and surgical techniques and with the advanced technologies we ensure that your dental implants are properly fitted so they will provide the strongest and most natural looking replacement teeth possible. When this occurs, the result will be a beautiful smile that will improve your appearance and your comfort while also boosting your self-confidence.