Does the digital implant workflow improve predictability, consistency, and efficiency?
The success of an implant-supported restoration is highly dependent on the accuracy of diagnostic images and models, as well as effective communication between the clinician, the laboratory, and relevant third parties.
The evolution of digital dental equipment and software has improved both of these factors immeasurably over the past few years. It is now possible to achieve predictable results more consistently and far more efficiently than traditional analog alternatives.
One of the main reasons for this improvement is the ability to integrate all digital equipment and software used throughout the entire digital workflow, from diagnosis to placement of the final restoration.
Data Capture
The digital implant workflow starts with intraoral scanning, data capture. Due to their incredibly realistic 3D scans, intraoral scanners are a realistic representation of different materials in the mouth and are capable of showing the most complex details. This shows all the spikes and cutting edges. Combined with automatic articulation, it makes it much easier to design the restoration.
Implant Planning
After the digital images are captured, they are loaded into the digital implant planning software. This combines surface scanning and CBCT scanning to give the picture in all its 3D glory.
If the final restoration has been predesigned, for example using a bedside system, it will appear in the software so that the implant can be designed to support it.
This powerful and intuitive software has all the tools needed to plan the optimal placement of the implant. This includes nerve channel monitoring, choosing the preferred implant and abutment systems, and then customizing the design to the needs of each individual case.
Once complete, users can send the design files via software to any third-party partner, such as your lab, if they are shaping your surgical guide.
Restoration
After implant placement, the prepared area is sent to the laboratory via a second digital impression. Here it is exported directly to software such as Inlab.
Here the technician can order a patient-specific abutment directly. Can edit the design as needed before ordering the abutment. They can then immediately integrate the files with Inlab to design the restoration. Inlab also takes into account the surrounding tooth structure captured in the digital impression. Therefore, at each stage, the artificial intelligence in the software uses algorithms and data analysis of previous cases to provide a workable recommendation, do most of the work automatically and provide a faster, more efficient process.
Conclusion
The complete integration of digital images throughout the entire digital implant workflow has revolutionized the way the dental team works together.
It means full visibility at every stage. And it greatly improves communication between clinician, technician, third parties and patient.
Even more excitingly, in addition to the benefits of current practice, the introduction of digital equipment and software provides access to other treatment modalities such as orthodontics. These will help expand the practice to meet the new demands of patients.
