Why does my dentist need a 3-D radiograph prior to placing an implant?

It used to be that implant surgeons requested a cat scan prior to treatment planning and implant restoration. Now mostrequest a 3-D cone beam tomagraph instead, since it requires less radiation to produce an image. These 3-D views allow a dentist to view a proposed implant site in cross section and when combined with an appropriate computer program they help determine how an implant should be placed and allow a dentist to try out placing different implants to determine which fits best.

This technology definately helps in the treatment planning of implant restorations and tends to insure the placement of the proper size implant. Accordingly, 3-D conebeam tomagraphy can be a tool that can help make placement of implants easier and the results more predictable.