Model-based guided implant insertion for solitary tooth replacement: a pilot study

Abstract

Objective: The impact of the implant position on the restorative outcome could justify guided surgery even for the single implants particularly in the aesthetic zone and especially when a simplified concept is available. Material and methods: Based on a plaster model, on which the soft tissues were mimicked (according to the thickness measured on a Cone-Beam CT), a tooth-supported, surgical template was prepared. The latter guided all drills so that even flapless implant insertion became possible. All implants were placed by students of the master-after-master training program in Periodontology. Results: The prospective cohort included a total of 34 implants, all of AstraTech (Osteospeed®) type, which were successfully inserted in 29 patients, 16 flapless, 32 onestage. The marginal bone along the integrated implants remained stable over time, with 0.13 mm loss during the first year. The aesthetic parameters were reassuring. Conclusions: This simple model-based concept seems to be reliable for the guided placement of single implants and the pre-operative preparation of their restorations. To cite this article:Marcelis K, Vercruyssen M, Naert I, Teughels W, Quirynen M. Model-based guided implant insertion for solitary tooth replacement: a pilot study. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23, 2012; 999–1003doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0501.2011.02242.x