A tomographic technique for the depiction of atrophied alveolar ridges prior to endosseous implant placement.

Radiographic examination is of particular importance prior to the placement of dental implants, especially when the alveolar ridge is severely atrophied. Accurate assessment of the amount of residual bone can be improved with tomography. A method is described which utilizes templates and marking aids to facilitate the correct positioning of the jaws so as to obtain a true cross-section of the alveolar ridge at the intended implant sites. The same template can be used to determine the location and angulation of the implant at surgery.