I’ve been considering getting the all-on-4 procedure done to replace my teeth and get rid of my dentures, which I truly despise. My dentist says I may be a good candidate but he’s insisting on a CT Scan. That’s very expensive. Is it really necessary, especially with all the x-rays I get every year at the dentist’s as it is?
Carolyn H.
Dear Carolyn,
Sometimes it feels like everything in life is just designed to drain our bank accounts, doesn’t it? If it were just the difference between HD TV or a full-blown media system, that would be a no-brainer. The media system is a nice luxury, but not necessary. However, let’s say you were starting a side business in your home and running a mini-theatre with homemade treats, then that media system goes from luxury to necessity.
That’s how I want you to look at the CT Scan. If you were just getting a dental crown then the CT scan would be definite overkill. However, when it comes to getting dental implants it really gives you the best chance of a successful case.
How Does a CT Scan Help All-on-4 Dental Implants?
A CT scan shows the dentist if you have enough bone to secure the implants.
That’s the way your body holds the roots of your natural teeth in. Without the proper amount of healthy bone, your dental implants will just fall out. Fortunately, not having sufficient bone isn’t a “deal breaker”, but it does mean you’d require an additional procedure before moving forward. Simple bone grafting can be just what the doctor ordered.
A CT scan shows the dentist if you’re a candidate for bone grafting.
There’s a procedure which can be done outpatient that builds up your bone. This will enable you to get either traditional dental implants or, if there’s not quite enough bone for that even with the augmentation, all-on-4 dental implants which require less bone.
A CT scan gives the dentist an additional tool for precise placement of your implants.
Placing the bone in the ideal position is key to having a successful outcome. Those images also help prevent mishaps. For instance, if the image shows you have a low sinus cavity, the oral surgeon will know to do a sinus lift beforehand to prevent perforating your sinus during the implant placement— A common problem for dentists who don’t use CT imaging.
Your dentist is looking out for your best interest. The CT scan is definitely worth the expense and many of the best dentists and oral surgeons will require it before performing your procedure.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. David Pumphrey.
