Surgical guides are 3D printed guide based on the digital planning of the surgery, using specialised software and the CBCT of the patient
Surgical guides are the latest advancement in dental implant technology. A surgical guide is created by taking impressions or an intraoral scan of the desired surgical implant site as well as a computer-guided 3D implant planning system. A surgical guide replicates the exact surfaces of the patient’s intraoral setting and assists the surgeon to drill implants into the bone with optimal accuracy. Upon placement on the patient’s jaw, the surgical guide uses sleeves to help guide the surgical instruments and implant to the proper location.
An assessment of the patient’s anatomy will help determine which type of treatment plan is best. When designing your surgical guide, keep in mind how the guide will be supported. Some surgical guides are teeth-supported, while some surgical guides work best if positioned on the soft-tissue, referred to as Mucosa-supported. Bone-supported guides can also be used when it is necessary for the surgical guide to be positioned on the jawbone. Other factors that will determine your patient’s individualized implant treatment include: the patient’s needs, the number of implants required, the type of surgical guide needed, and if flapless surgery or a fixed/removable prosthesis is required. After the patient’s clinical examination, a surgical guide can be created to suit your patient’s treatment plan.
Advantages of Using a Surgical Guide
One of the main advantages of utilizing a surgical guide is increased accuracy. This not only reduces surgery time, but reduces trauma, pain, and swelling for patients. In turn, it leads to a shorter recovery time for patients. Additionally, it promotes consistent optimal implant placement, resulting in predictable patient care.
