In prosthetically guided implantology where ideal placement of implant
is determined by the definitive restoration, use of radiographic and
surgical stent in conjunction with dental CT scan can play an important
role. A stent is an appliance used for radiographic evaluation during
treatment planning for implant placement and during surgical procedures
to locate optimal implant placement site. The stent with dental CT scan
enables the dental team to identify specific sites of prospective
implant surgery and hence determines the optimal position and angulation
of implant relative to occlusal load. Aided by stent the surgeon can
avoid undesirable implant site preparation and minimize unnecessary
osteotomy, resulting in favorable design of prosthesis, reduced surgical
trauma, reduced surgical time and increased patient comfort.