IMAGING TECHNIQUES AND IMAGE INTERPRETATION FOR DENTAL IMPLANT TREATMENT

Purpose: This article reviews the literature on radiographic imaging t echniques and image interpretation for dental implant treatment. Mater ials and Methods: MEDLINE was used to identify published peer-reviewed literature for this report. Results: Radiographic images are indispen sable in the evaluation of osseous structures when planning treatment for dental implants. Potential bone sites for implant placement can be assessed clinically by means of palpation or probing through the muco sa; however, diagnostic imaging provides the best means for indirectly measuring bone dimensions. After healing of the implant site, the app lication of radiology is useful to verify the amount of bone adjacent to the implant and that the transmucosal abutments fit the implant. Up on completion of the implant prosthesis, radiology may be used to moni tor initial and long-term success of implant treatment. Conclusion: Re commendations for the application of radiology over the course of trea tment are made for various implant cases ranging from the overdenture to the single-tooth implant.