CT-based dental imaging for implant planning and surgical guidance.

CT-based dental imaging for implant planning and surgical guidance carries both clinical and radiographic information for implant positioning as far as trajectory, depth and distribution. The significance of accurate planning and surgical guidance as it pertains to critical anatomical landmarks, such as the mandibular canal, maxillary sinus and adjacent teeth, cannot be overstated. This case report describes a systematic approach to the planning and surgical placement of a single, implant-supported crown, using CT-based dental imaging for implant planning and surgical guidance.

Restoration of immediately placed implants in 3 appointments: from surgical placement to definitive prostheses.

This article describes a comprehensive approach that enables the clinician to place dental implants, and fabricate a provisional prosthesis and a definitive metal-acrylic resin or metal-ceramic fixed complete denture in 3 appointments. This technique allows the practitioner to immediately load the implants with a provisional fixed complete denture at the time of implant placement, to record the relative positions of the implants and soft tissues, the occlusal vertical dimension, maxillomandibular relationship, and tooth position at the second appointment by using the information provided by the provisional fixed denture, and to insert the definitive prosthesis at the third appointment. This technique reduces chair time for both the patient and the clinician, and could ultimately reduce the cost of implant treatment and potentially increase treatment acceptance.

Supplementary role of panoramic radiographs in the medical surveillance of a patient at risk for stroke.

Panoramic radiography is commonly used by dentists as a diagnostic tool. The known prevalence range of positive incidental carotid artery calcifications in the general dental population is 2% to 5%, with a population older than 55 representing the higher end of the range. Dentists are expected to identify medical conditions while providing dental care and to refer patients for follow-up medical care.