Digitally guided implants: what they are and how they work

From the Dental implants guide

With a digitally guided implant, your dentist plans the implant on a 3D scan of your jaw first, then places it through a custom-made surgical guide. It is more accurate than freehand placement, usually faster on the day, and generally means less swelling afterwards. It is available at our Digital Centre.

What actually happens, and will it hurt?

1. Assessment and 3D scan. A CBCT scan shows bone depth and the position of nerves in a way a flat X-ray cannot.
2. Digital planning. The implant’s position, angle and depth are planned on the scan.
3. Guide made. A custom surgical guide is made to fit your mouth, so the plan can be followed precisely.
4. Placement. The implant is placed through the guide under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure rather than pain.
5. Healing. The implant bonds with the bone over a healing phase of around 3 to 6 months.
6. The crown. The visible tooth is fitted once the implant is ready.

Some soreness afterwards is normal and is usually manageable with ordinary painkillers. Your dentist will tell you what to expect for your case.

Who is it for?

The same people who are candidates for an implant: anyone with enough healthy jawbone and healthy gums. Guided placement is particularly useful where precision matters, such as close to nerves or when several implants are being placed. If bone has been lost, a graft may be needed first.

What does it cost?

Treatment starts with a deposit from KES 40,000, as with standard implants, and the balance is paid in instalments. The final cost is confirmed after your 3D scan. See what implants cost.