Forum Implantologicum, 02/2019

This article aims to give an overview of the application of digital technologies in implant dentistry. The workflow of digital imaging, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing is followed with regard to implant dentistry. In digital imaging, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and optical surface scanning, including intraoral scanning and extraoral scanning of impressions or models are discussed. The advantages of direct digitization using intraoral scanners are contrasted by the lack of scientific data on the accuracy of these technologies in certain situations. CBCT is the clinical standard for three-dimensional imaging diagnostics, however, CBCT data are significantly compromised by imaging artifacts originating from dental restorations. Computer-aided design (CAD) is used for virtual implant planning with regard to anatomical structures relevant to surgical implant placement and therefore to the long-term success of dental implants or the virtual design of implant-supported restorations. The acquired digital imaging data are used to virtually design the implant-supported restorations that are used for diagnosis and backward planning as well as possibly for the production of the final restorations on implants. Computer-aided manufacturing is applied for the production of drill guides and implant-supported restorations. Additive and subtractive production technologies and available materials as well as their indications are the focus in this article. Schlagwörter: Digital implant dentistry, optical surface scanning, intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM, virtual implant planning, guided implant surgery

Over the past decade, the use of digital technology in implant treatment planning and static computer-assisted implant surgery (sCAIS) has revolutionized the planning and execution of guided implant surgeries. However, the predictability of achieving a high degree of accuracy when using a digital workflow and sCAIS has been a subject of debate. For sCAIS procedures to transition from clinical success in individual cases to a broadly applicable procedure, a better understanding and control of variables that affect their accuracy is essential. Recently, a research team in the Department of Oral Surgery and Stomatology at the University of Bern launched a series of in-vitro investigations to further analyze the impact and magnitude of potential variables involved in the digital treatment planning of sCAIS procedures that can have a significant effect on the accuracy of sCAIS. This article presents the rationale and summary of their findings. Schlagwörter: Computer-assisted, implant surgery, guided surgery, surgical guides

Computer Aided Implant Surgery (CAIS) has lately been gaining popularity among dental clinicians. Several software packages and associated tools are available on the market. Recent literature reviews show that inaccuracies often occur when these techniques are applied. In this article, the authors give an overview of the tools available for CAIS along with their benefits and shortcomings as well as possible solutions to improve overall accuracy in CAIS. Schlagwörter: Guided surgery, computer planning, CAIS

Complete or partial digital workflow utilizing computeraided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology provides dental clinicians with ample options to treat their patients in a more effective way in daily practice. Dental clinicians and technicians need to recognize the limitations and proper indications of currently available technologies to accomplish optimal clinical care outcomes for patients. This article aims to narratively review various current CAD/CAM technologies (such as digital data collection, the development in CAD software programs and manufacturing platforms) in implant dentistry and discuss their advantages and limitations. Schlagwörter: CAD/CAM, digital, prosthesis, dental implant

In this issue Forum Implantologicum talks to Dr. Simone Janner about his ITI-funded study "Bone response to functionally loaded, two-piece zirconia implants: A preclinical histometric study."

This year, the André Schroeder Research Prize was presented by ITI President Stephen Chen during the ITI Congress Iberia in Porto, Lisbon in March. Forum Implantologicum spoke to the two prizewinners about their studies and their plans.

In this issue, we ask the experts "To What Extent Have You Implemented Digital Technology in Daily Implant Dentistry?" Bo Chen, Irena Sailer & Vincent Fehmer, William Martin and Waldemar D. Polido outline the role that digital technology plays in daily practice for them.

I first learned of the ITI Scholarship program when I was a prosthodontic resident at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was an ITI Scholarship Center at the time and gave me the opportunity to interact with many young Scholars from around the world.

The ITI Scholarship year has been an unforgettable year for me! It gave me exposure to a top-class dental school and the possibility to interact with world renowned specialists in implant dentistry.

I first heard about the ITI during my oral surgery training in 2009 when I saw an ITI Treatment Guide and was really impressed by the quality of the educational material and evidence-based knowledge. I then became a Member and have aimed to take an active role in the ITI community on a national and international level ever since.

When a scientific platform that was originally established for unconventional even provocative debate begins to feel its age, it is high time to rethink things. In similar situations, products sometimes simply disappear, while others manage to reinvent themselves.