The Essential Technologies for All-On-X Dental Implant Procedures

All-On-X dental implant procedures have revolutionized full-arch tooth replacement, offering patients a permanent and functional solution for complete edentulism or failing dentition. These procedures, often referred to as full-arch fixed implant-supported restorations, require a combination of advanced technologies to ensure precision, predictability, and optimal patient outcomes.

In this article, we will explore the essential technologies needed to fulfill an All-On-X dental implant procedure successfully.

1. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging

CBCT imaging is a cornerstone technology in implant dentistry, providing detailed 3D images of the maxillofacial region. For All-On-X procedures, CBCT imaging is crucial for:

• Pre-operative assessment of bone quantity and quality: CBCT scans help determine the available bone volume and density, which is essential for implant placement and stability.
• Virtual treatment planning: Advanced CBCT software allows clinicians to plan implant positions, angulations, and prosthetic design virtually, ensuring precise placement and optimal aesthetics.
• Nerve and anatomical structure identification: CBCT scans help identify vital structures such as nerves, sinuses, and adjacent teeth, minimizing the risk of complications during surgery.

2. Intraoral Scanners

Intraoral scanners have become indispensable tools for digital dentistry, offering fast, accurate, and comfortable impressions of the oral cavity. In All-On-X procedures, intraoral scanners are utilized for:

• Capturing digital impressions: Intraoral scanners create digital models of the patient's arches, allowing for the design and fabrication of implant-supported restorations with optimal fit and aesthetics.
• Virtual bite registration: Accurate bite registration is crucial for occlusal harmony in All-On-X restorations. Intraoral scanners facilitate precise bite registration digitally, ensuring proper functional outcomes.

3. CAD/CAM Technology

Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology has revolutionized the fabrication of dental restorations. In All-On-X procedures, CAD/CAM technology is used for:

• Designing implant-supported prosthetics: CAD software enables the design of customized implant-supported bridges or hybrid dentures, tailored to the patient's anatomy and functional requirements.
• Milling or 3D printing restorations: CAM technology facilitates the fabrication of final restorations with high precision and accuracy, ensuring excellent fit and aesthetics.

4. Guided Implant Surgery Software and Tools

Guided implant surgery has become standard practice in All-On-X procedures, enhancing accuracy and reducing surgical complications. Guided surgery technologies include:

• Implant planning software: Advanced software allows for virtual implant planning based on CBCT data, enabling precise implant placement and angulation for optimal support and aesthetics.
• Surgical guides: 3D-printed or milled surgical guides are fabricated based on virtual implant plans, providing a template for accurate implant placement during surgery, reducing chairside time and improving outcomes.

5. Digital Occlusal Analysis Systems

Digital occlusal analysis systems, such as the Tekscan T-Scan Novus System, are invaluable for achieving optimal occlusal harmony and function in All-On-X restorations. These systems provide:

• Real-time occlusal data: Digital occlusal analysis systems capture dynamic occlusal forces and timing, aiding in bite equilibration and adjustments for optimal occlusal stability.
• Objective bite registration: Quantitative data from digital occlusal analysis systems eliminate guesswork in bite registration, ensuring balanced occlusion and minimizing the risk of occlusal issues post-treatment.

Interested in becoming more proficient in All-on-X procedures?

We have a very exciting learning opportunity coming up June 28-30, 2024. Hosted by the All-On-X Masterclass, this 2 or 3 day onsite course will help you take your full arch implant game to the next level!

Instruction is led by Dr. Simon Oh, industry leader in the atrophic maxilla, and his team at their Philadelphia, PA facility. Earn up to 20 CE credits with this course. There are a limited amount of seats available in each course, so enroll early to ensure your spot. Follow registration link to get started: https://allonxmasterclass.com/aox/

Need Equipment for All-on-x?

Get to know Voxel! We have a team of dental technology experts ready to help you find the right equipment for your practice. And, because we’re an authorized dealer of many top technology brands, we’ll be able to help you find the best solutions for your practice at the best value and support you throughout the lifespan of your equipment.

We’ve worked with thousands of dentists across the US. We know what it takes to get up and running quickly, especially with new technology. That’s why we back all of our products with a comprehensive warranty, 24/7 product support, installation, and perhaps, most importantly, online and on-site training to help get you and your staff started with your new technology as quickly as possible.

Ready to begin? Give us a call at (281) 789-7270 or fill out an online inquiry form here. We look forward to earning your business.