Pittman Dental Laboratory Blog

Periodontists understand the profound impact a healthy smile has on a patient's life. When gum disease leads to significant tooth loss, restoring function and aesthetics becomes a priority. Capture®, the innovative full-arch guided system from Pittman Dental Laboratory, empowers you to deliver life-changing smile restorations with exceptional efficiency and predictability.

Dental implants are a popular and effective choice for replacing missing teeth. However, the success of dental implants depends on a number of factors, including the healing process of the tissues around the implant. Traditional healing abutments are often round or cylindrical in shape, which can lead to challenges in achieving optimal gum tissue contouring.

Dental implant procedures have undergone significant advancements in recent years, offering both dentists and patients innovative options for tooth replacement. Two primary approaches have emerged in the world of implantology: guided dental implant systems and freehand dental implants.  At Pittman Dental Laboratory, we have witnessed the evolution of these techniques, each presenting its unique set of advantages and challenges.

Guided Dental Implant Systems:

Guided dental implant systems have gained popularity for their precision and predictability. This method involves the use of 3D imaging technology to create a detailed digital map of the patient's oral anatomy. Through computer-guided planning, the dentist can precisely determine the ideal implant placement and angulation, minimizing the margin for error.

Positive Aspects:

1. Enhanced Precision: One of the key advantages of guided systems is the high level of accuracy they provide. Dentists can achieve precise implant placement, reducing the risk of damage to surrounding structures.

2. Shorter Procedure Time: With a pre-determined surgical plan, the actual implant placement procedure tends to be quicker, resulting in reduced chair time for the patient and less discomfort.

3. Predictable Outcomes: Guided implant systems allow for a more predictable outcome, improving the long-term success of the implant. This is particularly beneficial for complex cases or patients with compromised bone density.

Negative Aspects:

1.  Learning Curve: Dentists need a system to follow to become proficient in using guided systems.  At Pittman Dental Laboratory, our implant team guides the Dentist from beginning to end with online case reviews, onsite facial analysis,  drill reports, implant reports and chairside assistance if needed. Dentists can also start with one or two implants with our Focal Point® system before going on to Capture® our all on X guided system.

Freehand Dental Implants:

Freehand dental implant procedures rely on the dentist's experience, skill, and tactile feedback during surgery. This traditional approach allows for greater flexibility and adaptability during the implant placement process.

Positive Aspects:

1.  Cost-Effective:  Freehand dental implant procedures generally require less investment in technology and training. This makes them a more accessible option for dental practices with budget constraints.

2. Experience-Dependent: Dentists with extensive experience in implantology may find the freehand approach more intuitive. The tactile feedback during surgery allows for on-the-spot adjustments based on the patient's unique anatomy.

Negative Aspects:

1. Limited Precision: The main drawback of freehand implant placement is the potential for less precise outcomes compared to guided systems. This can lead to suboptimal aesthetic results and increased risk of complications.

2. Extended Procedure Time: Without the aid of computer-guided planning, the dentist may spend more time during the surgery assessing and adjusting, potentially leading to longer procedure times and increased patient discomfort.

Conclusion:

Choosing between guided and freehand dental implant procedures involves weighing the pros and cons based on individual patient cases, practitioner expertise, and the financial considerations of the dental practice. While guided systems offer unparalleled precision, freehand techniques provide a more cost-effective and experience-dependent alternative. Ultimately, the decision rests on the dentist's comfort level, training, and commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for their patients.

In the realm of dental prosthetics, the quest for precision and efficiency has driven the adoption of innovative technologies. Among them, photogrammetry stands out as a game-changer in capturing crucial data for implant placement in full-arch prostheses. This cutting-edge technique harnesses the power of photography to create detailed, three-dimensional models, significantly enhancing the accuracy and success of implant procedures.

Traditionally, implant placement for full-arch prostheses relied heavily on manual measurements, impressions, and radiographic imaging. While these methods have served their purpose, they often left room for human error and lacked the comprehensive detail required for optimal results. Enter photogrammetry, a non-invasive process that captures high-resolution images from multiple angles, creating a digital representation of the patient's oral environment.

One of the primary advantages of photogrammetry is its ability to provide a 360-degree view of the patient's oral structures. By strategically placing cameras around the patient's head, clinicians can capture a series of images that are then processed using specialized software. The result is a detailed, three-dimensional model that offers an unprecedented level of accuracy in assessing the patient's anatomy, bone density, and overall oral health.

When it comes to implant placement, this level of precision is paramount. Photogrammetry allows clinicians to analyze the available bone structure with unparalleled detail, ensuring that implants are positioned optimally for stability and long-term success. Additionally, the technique aids in identifying potential challenges, such as anatomical variations or sinus proximity, allowing for careful preoperative planning and mitigating the risk of complications.

The benefits of photogrammetry extend beyond the surgical phase. The three-dimensional models generated through this process serve as invaluable tools for designing and fabricating prostheses with an unparalleled level of accuracy. This not only enhances the fit and function of the prosthetic but also streamlines the overall treatment process, reducing chair time for patients and increasing efficiency in the dental practice.

Photogrammetry is revolutionizing the landscape of full-arch prosthesis procedures by providing clinicians with a powerful tool for capturing precise implant placement data.  Pittman Dental Laboratory and Surgical Solutions invests in photogrammetry with technology such as the dental device from InstaRisa face scanner. As technology continues to advance, the integration of photogrammetry into dental practices is set to become a standard, Pittman uses this technology for better outcomes and patients seeking optimal oral rehabilitation through full-arch prostheses.

Title: Promising Experimental Medicine in Japan May Revolutionize Dentistry

When it comes to dental surgery, precision is paramount. Whether you're a dentist looking to provide your patients with the best care possible with less chair time or a patient seeking a seamless dental experience, Pittman Surgical Solutions has you covered. We provide many options for dentists to choose from with our innovative dental surgical guides.

What Are Dental Surgical Guides?

Dental surgical guides are essential tools that enhance the accuracy and predictability of dental procedures, including dental implant placements, extractions, and various other oral surgeries. These guides are custom-designed for each patient, ensuring that the treatment plan aligns perfectly with their unique dental anatomy.

Dental implants can offer several benefits that can positively impact a person's health. Here are 7 ways dental implants can improve overall health:

When it comes to dental implant placement, dentists and oral surgeons have two primary approaches: guided and non-guided. Understanding the difference between these methods is crucial for professionals to effectively communicate with their patients and ensure a successful outcome. In recent years, guided implant placement has gained popularity due to its numerous advantages and improved patient experiences.