Radiographic Stents and Surgical Stents in Implant Placements: An Overview

Abstract

Aim: This article presents an overview about various simple techniques for fabrication of radiographic and surgical stents for implant placement. Background: Dental implantology is now a feasible option to conventional prosthodontics. A need for predictable prosthesis has resulted in the emergence of prosthetically guided implantology. A radiographic stent is used for evaluation and determination of the accurate position for implant placement during the planning and for identification of the accurate site for the placement of implants during the surgical procedure. Radiographic and surgical stents help in placement of the implants in a precise and predetermined position and angulation, along with minimizing unnecessary osteotomy, results in an accurate design of prosthesis, reducing the time for implant placement and trauma caused to the patients thus increasing their comfort. Conclusion: Using stents for implant placement helps achieve accurate position and angulation of implant.