I would like some advice about my dental implant procedure. I have short listed two dentists that have good reviews. One of them wants me to get a CT scan and the other said it isn’t necessary. A second issue is they both use a different brand of implant fixture. Is there a brand that is considered the best? Will one make it easier for later adjustments than another?
Larry
Hi Larry,
I am glad you are asking questions. Too many patients go into this blind not realizing how advanced the dental implant procedure is. In fact, dental school training is not adequate for this. There are way too many dental implant horror stories from patients whose dentist did not know what he was doing. Make sure whichever dentist you choose has invested in significant post-doctoral training.
Now, to answer your questions. As for the CT scan, I would not consider that optional at all. In addition to making sure there is adequate bone support, your mouth is three dimensional with nerve endings to navigate around. Plus, if you are talking about an upper tooth, then those roots are close to your sinus cavity. Without a 3-dimensional scan, then you risk nerve damage or a sinus perforation. Get the CT scan.
When it comes to fixtures, there are a few great options. I would not be as concerned about the need for adjustments as I would the quality control of the manufacturer. These have to made to exact measurements and standards. The best dental implant dentists that I know favor these fixtures:
- 3i
- Nobel Biocare
- Straumann
- BioHorizons
- Zimmer
- Astrotech
There are quite a few dentists who will cut corners by ordering from a cheaper manufacturer. While this can save the dentist hundreds of dollars, it often leads to dental implant failure. Much of the time this can happen over a year down the road, where the patient will not know the true cause.
Focus on finding a qualified dentist and they will pick a good manufacturer.
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