The surgeon and the restorative dentist will use a series of diagnostic studies to assess the current dental condition of a patient undergoing dental implant therapy. Any mis-diagnosis can negatively impact the treatment outcome and longevity of the implants. Diagnostic studies for planning dental implant treatment include:

1. CBCT (Cone beam CT scan): A 3-dimensional imaging technique which provides precise dimensions of the available bone and proximity of vital structures such as sinus and nerves. CBCT also allows digital implant planning and aids in fabrication of implant surgical guides.
2. Periapical X-rays: Conventional dental X-rays that provide diagnostic information on teeth such as caries, bone loss, and evidence of infection. A full mouth series (FMS) of X-rays are required for every patient, whether undergoing implant therapy or not.
3. Panorex: An X-ray with panoramic view of the jaw bones and teeth. This X-ray is valuable in general screening of a patient’s dental health and diagnosis of caries, periodontal disease, infection, and pathology.
4. Intr-oral scan: A digital impression providing exact anatomy of teeth and supporting gum tissue. A digital scan may be merged with a CBCT to provide a complete 3-D representation of jaw bone, teeth, and soft tissue anatomy.
5. Diagnostic models: A replicate of patient’s teeth and bite. Models may be obtained using a conventional impression poured into stone or using an intra-oral scan (digital impression) which can then be printed into a physical model. The model provides great information on bite, relationship of teeth, and bite dimensions.
6. Photos: Close up photographs of patient’s face, profile, smile line, and teeth (from several views). Photographs provide great amount of information on patient’s bite, aesthetics, gum tissue harmony, and smile line.
7. Videos: Videography provides information on patient’s lip movement during speech and smiling as well as amount of teeth shown in motion. This is important in diagnosing symmetry of muscles of facial expression and how patient looks when talking or smiling in real life.
8. Periodontal probing: Measurement of gum tissue pocket around existing teeth which should normally range from 2-3 mm. Areas with deeper probing depth indicate loss of bone and attachment related to periodontal disease.
9. Clinical examination: General exam and palpation of oral structures including teeth, soft tissue, tongue, and floor of the mouth. This is important in diagnosing teeth mobility and pathology which will impact the overall treatment plan.
10. MRI: An imaging study that looks at the soft tissue anatomy of TMJ and surrounding structures. This study is diagnostic for internal derangement in TMJ disorder.

One of the key factors in success of implant therapy is team approach between the surgeon, the restorative dentist, the laboratory, and other specialists involved in the overall treatment. The restorative dentist is the quarterback of the multi-disciplinary group and should moderate review of  all diagnostics information, surgical and restorative aspects of the treatment, and the collaborate necessary between all team members to achieve the goals.

We provide the communication platform using a special software to align all team members and make sure every treatment is followed in proper order and efficiency. Through regular meetings and updates, each member of the team is kept inform of patient’s progress and new information relevant to executing the next steps.

With our digital treatment planning software and process, an accurate and precise plan is designed using CBCT merged with the intra-oral scans (digital impression). Digital teeth are then placed to show the position and size of the planned restoration which in-turn helps to orient the implant in perfect position.