How Technology Aids Successful Dental Implantation

Why CT scans are used and how these differ from regular x-rays.

At the Darren Bywater Dental Implant Centre, we are continually monitoring new developments in implant dentistry, including new technologies that become available. Whilst there is no substitute for a skilled and experienced implant dentist, using these new technologies can make the process easier for both dentist, and, more importantly, for the patient.

Our Derby implant patients may be familiar with one of these technologies that has been around for a little time now; the CT scanner.

Why take CT scans?

Whilst regular x-ray machines certainly still have their uses, a CT scanner allows more advanced imaging in both 2D and 3D which allows the implant dentist to determine precisely where your implants should be placed.

X-rays can also offer a slightly distorted image which can be fine for general use, but the exact pin pointing of the location of your new dental implant is of such importance to its success, that the more accurate CT scan is a great advantage. X-rays also show only the the height of your teeth and bone whilst a CT scan also shows a cross section of your jaw, providing the dentist with a wider knowledge of your mouth. This knowledge also helps the dentist to determine whether you are immediately a good candidate for implants or whether you may need a prior procedure such as a bone graft or sinus lift.

No guesswork

The precise imaging provided by the CT scan at our Derby dental implant centre also allows us to determine the exact location of the nerves as well as the depth and density of bone available for the implant to be placed into. This additional information means that, not only are the chances of a successful implant procedure enhanced, but that any potential discomfort and complications for the patient can be minimised by avoiding the area where nerves are located.

Is the scan uncomfortable?

Not at all. In fact, some patients appear to associate a CT scanner with the full body scanners that are often seen on TV.  CT scanners used in dentistry though, only focus on the head area, and this is the only part of your body which will be under the scanner. All that we ask of our patients is that they remain still for around twenty seconds whilst the scan takes place. There will be no discomfort and you are not tightly enclosed either. Having an in-surgery scanner means that the whole dental implant process takes place at one location, and offers both a convenient and accurate method of preparing for accurate dental implant surgery.

For more information about dental implants at our Derby practice, or for any questions that you might have about the process, please call the Darren Bywater Dental Implant Centre on 01332 550933.

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