The use of surgical guides for dental implant treatment planning and placement represents one of the most exciting and innovative  developments in implant dentistry.

 In order to better control the late discovery of inadequate bone structures, cross sectional images are required. They are now quickly  becoming the standard level of care. There are only two ways to acquire these images.

 The first method uses Tomography. The amount of radiation is mild compared to a CT scan. Tomograms result in a 60-70 magnification  and are accurate about 60 percent of the time. 

 The second technique involves the use of Computed Tomography Studies (CT Scans). This allows a very detailed assessment in three  dimensions

 These 3-D visualizations coupled with the appropriate software allow implants to be placed with a level of precision that was unattainable  several years ago. In addition, the surgical procedures can often be accomplished in a much more conservative procedure which involves  greatly reduced discomfort, less treatment time and a more accurate final outcome.

After the vital structures are identified and the implants placed a surgical guide can be ordered. There are three types of SurgiGuides: tooth supported, gum supported and bone supported

Currently there are two companies that have developed virtual modeling software. 

Materialisedeveloped SimPlant computer guided implantology software.

Nobel Biocare developed the NobelGuide concept using Procera software

Specialized computer software enables implant surgeons to assess all of the critical areas of the maxillary and mandibular bone structures. The precision imaging helps doctors to not only determine the best possible implant sites but also permit the assessment of need for bone augmentation (grafting) that will optimize predictability ratios.

The entire process of assessment, treatment planning, selection of implant devices and final restoration products is achieved "virtually" before treatment even begins. Patients benefit from being able to visualize, fully, current state of need and final outcome possibilities, based on their choice of restoration components (types of crowns, abutments, shape, color shading, size, etc). 
No other dental technology offers this degree of potential for eliminating "treatment surprises."