Application of digital radiography to implantology.

Modern digital radiographic techniques can aid the clinician in planning dental implant selection and placement before and during surgery, a well as in the long term assessment of periimplant bone support. Implant treatment planning can be facilitated using computed tomography on film-based motion tomography. During surgery, direct digital radiography allows the clinician to visualize the relationship of the osteotomy sit to important anatomic structures such as the mandibular nerve. Following placement, digital subtraction radiography permits detection of osseous changes too small to be seen by eye with an accuracy approaching 95%. Such sensitivity and specificity encourages early evaluation and, if necessary, intervention on behalf of the ailing implant.