THE DIGITAL STREAM

Very few people like to visit the dentist. Now, imagine how much less they like visiting an oral surgeon. In the patient’s mind, surgery involves scalpels, anesthesia and recovery time—it’s far more involved than the biannual dental prophy. However, I’ve found when it comes to a “scary” treatment, such as an autogenous bone graft, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) helps me calm the fears and address the concerns of my patients.

When placing implants, I try to answers the questions of “how many,” “where” and “what size.” When asking “where,” bone volume plays a huge role. If I find bone deficiencies or inadequacies at the implant site, the treatment plan can go from very basic to very involved, as an autogenous bone graft may be necessary. Fortunately, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) lets me view multiple planes in 3D.

Classically, the “endodontic triad” for successful treatment outcomes has represented the cornerstone of masterful endodontics. Nothing’s changed; only the methods.