Image Guidance

Surgical procedures and other medical treatments are complex and require immense skill on the part of the treating physician. Adequate visualization of the area of the body being treated is critical; without it, the rate of complications is significantly higher. However, many areas of the body are difficult to see, particularly in the oral cavity. Image guidance is a newer technology in the field of dentistry that allows dental health professionals to visualize different areas of the mouth before and during the procedure. In the past, implants were typically done only using x-ray technology, which left more room for error. Image guidance is now the preferred method for placing dental implants. CBCT images are obtained and CAD technology is used to “place” the implants virtually in a highly accurate, computerized surgical guide. Image guidance has eliminated the need for a flap in a large number of implant surgeries, reducing the risk of potential complications.