Inventors:
Bernard M. Kruger - West Caldwell NJ
International Classification:
A61C 1336
Abstract:
A three dimensional guidance system for locating the correct or optimal angles of implant insertion into a dental patient's jawbone is described. The optimum angles, depths, and positioning are obtained as follows: a surrogate of the patient's mouth is provided in the form of stone model of the intended implant region with the edentulous area being exposed, a diagnostic work-up, usually in wax, of the stone model, and perforce of the patient's mouth, is produced and fitted with a pontic tooth or teeth in the proper occlusal relationships, a three-dimensional guidance system in the form of a drill press containing a platform or table movable through all directions about a fixed point defined by the drill point. In practice, the radiographic guide is placed on the patient and a CT-scan taken. Since the radiographic guide had previously been provided with radio-opaque landmarks, the resulting images will show specifically those landmarks in relation to the anatomical features that must be considered in drilling the osteotomy.