Is a CT Scan Necessary for Dental Implant Treatments?

March 16, 2013 alexnguyen

In order to place an implant in the patient's jaw, we need to assess several criteria at the location of the planned implant. Some of the important factors may include: 1. The patient's bone height

2. The patient's bone width

3. The proximity to the nerves in the lower jaw

4. The proximity of the sinus cavity in the upper jaw

Using a 3D Cone Beam Scan (CT Scan) we can precisely analyze all of the above criteria and predetermine the exact size and location of the implant prior to the surgical placement.

Here is a screen capture of the planning process for two implants to replace two missing molars in our actual patient's lower jaw. The red line below the two planned implants is a nerve in the lower jaw. That nerve is often the limiting factor in the lower jaw where some implants for posterior teeth may be needed.

Proper use of technology helps ensure optimum results and safety of dental implant treatment.

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Alex Nguyen, DDS is a Saratoga Dentist who practices General Dentistry, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry. For over 20 years the practice has been serving the residents of Santa Clara County and San Francisco Bay Area.

Allergies and Toothache

April 12, 2011 alexnguyen

The arrival of Spring induces allergy symptoms such as itchy/watery eyes, excess nasal irritation and drainage, dry cough, skin rash, etc. However, there is a unique symptom which occurs sometime in conjunction with excess drainage in the sinus: Toothache on the upper molars or bicuspids. The upper bicuspid and molar roots are embedded in the sinus cavity. When the sinus cavity is filled with excess drainage from allergies, pressure from the sinus on the roots can cause a discomfort which mimics a toothache. An improper diagnosis may result in unnecessary root canal treatments to alleviate the associated pain. Careful examination and tests should be done to rule out toothache associated with sinus drainage or infection.

In this case, a regiment of antibiotics and antihistamines may very well alleviate the toothache-like problem. Yes, sometimes you can blame pollen for your toothache !

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Cosmetic or Form Follows Function? Follow Up of a Full Mouth Bite Rehabilitation Case

November 6, 2010 alexnguyen

Ta da ! ! ! This full mouth rehabilitation case restored this patient's smile with a combination of crowns, bridges, and veneers.

The important principles include:

1. The patient's personal preferences

2. The scientific foundation of the human dentition

3. The art of modern porcelain materials and technique

Before:

After:

Images of actual patients of Alex Nguyen, DDS are Copyrighted and Digitally Embedded to track Unauthorized Use.

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CT Scan and Dental Implant : High Standard of Care or Basic Requirement?

October 1, 2010 alexnguyen

In my practice, this "High Standard of Care" is a "Basic Requirement". Dental Implants have become the preferred standard of care when it comes to replacing missing teeth in the mouth. The advancement of technology has enabled dentists to accurately analyze the structure of the jaw and pre-plan for the implant work.

By using specialized software with images from a CT Scan of your dentition, I can analyze some important requirements which cannot be determined accurately with simple xrays alone:

1. Bone density

2. Bone thickness

3. Bone height

4. Proximity to nerve canals and the Sinus

5. Proximity to/ angulation of adjacent tooth root

With the above analysis, I can choose the right implant size before going into the surgery. The advanced treatment planning and analysis help prevent unexpected complications such as damage to vital nerves or impingement on the Sinus.

Here are some images of an analysis of a CT Scan for Dental Implants treatment:

One should never compromise a life-long restoration by choosing an implant treatment that has not been carefully planned out. This is particularly crucial in the esthetic zone such as your front teeth where lack of planning can produce an unfavorable esthetic result.

Thank you for viewing my post, and please let me know if you have any question.

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