[Diagnosis for dental implant using computed tomography and precise implantation using modified stent].

The diagnosis of jaw bones using X-ray computerized tomography is effective to decide the method of implantation, the position of the implant, and the direction for the insertion of the implant. However, it is difficult to apply anatomical information to the superstructures of implants, as well as to prepare implant sockets at the proper site by using an ordinary surgical stent. This would affect the effectiveness of the X-ray computerized tomography considerably. The X-ray computerized tomography with a diagnostic stent has been used in our clinic. CT multiplaner reconstruction images with radiopaque markers are useful to examine the adaptability of implant and to determine an appropriate site of implantation for an ideal prosthesis. Moreover, the diagnostic stent is modified to the surgical stent by drilling guide holes to reproduce a precise direction for inserting implant. By applying this stent, it is possible to reproduce the optimal site and direction for the placement of implant. In this report, two cases, which were treated with diagnosis and the placement of implants by using this technique, were studied. One was a case of overdenture and the other was that of upper anterior prostheses. In both cases, precise implantation was achieved by using this technique.