Computer-guided implant surgery: indications and guidelines for use.

The introduction of medical-grade computed tomography (CT) technologies and the ballooning use of cone beam CT (CBCT) in dental offices, in combination with the use of proprietary dental implant software, has revolutionized the planning and placement of dental implants. These technologies facilitate a team approach in a truly restoratively driven treatment plan based on the accurate planning and placement of dental implants. Using this approach, the planned restoration for an implant site is first created; then the dental team, in effect, works backwards to virtually plan the ideal implant position for the site based on the anatomy, vital structures in the area, surrounding and opposing teeth and restorations, and the restoration planned. Although an argument could be made for using these technologies in most implant patients, their cost/time/benefit precludes their use in every situation. This article presents an overview of the guidelines and indications for use of computer-guided technologies in dental implant treatment.