Applications of 3-Dimensional Virtual Computerized Tomography Technology in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Current Therapy

With the recent introduction of in-office cone-beam volumetric tomography scanners and the development of computed tomographic-based proprietary third-party 3-dimensional dental implant software programs, the field of implant dentistry is moving toward the 3-dimensional evaluation and placement of dental implants according to a restoratively driven treatment plan. The goal is to place the dental implant according to where the final dental restoration will be fabricated. The precision, accuracy, and 3-dimensional visualization capabilities of these technologies open avenues for the oral and maxillofacial surgeon in the diagnosis, planning, and surgical management of many nonimplant-related cases. The combination of these technologies is useful in expanding our information in dentoalveolar, preprosthetic, trauma, pathology and reconstruction, orthognathic and craniofacial, and cosmetic esthetic implant surgical cases. This article discusses the use of these technologies in the practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery.