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Authors are the souls of any journal, and deserve much respect. To publish a journal manuscripts are needed from authors. Authors have a great responsibility for producing facts of their work in terms of number and results truthfully and an individual honesty is expected from authors in this regards. Both ways its true "No authors-No manuscripts-No journals" and "No journals–No manuscripts–No authors". Reviewing a manuscript is also a very responsible and important task of any peer-reviewed journal and to be taken seriously. It needs knowledge on the subject, sincerity, honesty and determination. Although the process of reviewing a manuscript is a time consuming task butit is expected to give one's best remarks within the time frame of the journal.
Salient features of the JCDR: It is a biomedical, multidisciplinary (including all medical and dental specialities), e-journal, with wide scope and extensive author support. At the same time, a free text of manuscript is available in HTML and PDF format. There is fast growing authorship and readership with JCDR as this can be judged by the number of articles published in it i e; in Feb 2007 of its first issue, it contained 5 articles only, and now in its recent volume published in April 2011, it contained 67 manuscripts. This e-journal is fulfilling the commitments and objectives sincerely, (as stated by Editor-in-chief in his preface to first edition) i e; to encourage physicians through the internet, especially from the developing countries who witness a spectrum of disease and acquire a wealth of knowledge to publish their experiences to benefit the medical community in patients care. I also feel that many of us have work of substance, newer ideas, adequate clinical materials but poor in medical writing and hesitation to submit the work and need help. JCDR provides authors help in this regards.
Timely publication of journal: Publication of manuscripts and bringing out the issue in time is one of the positive aspects of JCDR and is possible with strong support team in terms of peer reviewers, proof reading, language check, computer operators, etc. This is one of the great reasons for authors to submit their work with JCDR. Another best part of JCDR is "Online first Publications" facilities available for the authors. This facility not only provides the prompt publications of the manuscripts but at the same time also early availability of the manuscripts for the readers.
Indexation and online availability: Indexation transforms the journal in some sense from its local ownership to the worldwide professional community and to the public.JCDR is indexed with Embase & EMbiology, Google Scholar, Index Copernicus, Chemical Abstracts Service, Journal seek Database, Indian Science Abstracts, to name few of them. Manuscriptspublished in JCDR are available on major search engines ie; google, yahoo, msn.
In the era of fast growing newer technologies, and in computer and internet friendly environment the manuscripts preparation, submission, review, revision, etc and all can be done and checked with a click from all corer of the world, at any time. Of course there is always a scope for improvement in every field and none is perfect. To progress, one needs to identify the areas of one's weakness and to strengthen them.
It is well said that "happy beginning is half done" and it fits perfectly with JCDR. It has grown considerably and I feel it has already grown up from its infancy to adolescence, achieving the status of standard online e-journal form Indian continent since its inception in Feb 2007. This had been made possible due to the efforts and the hard work put in it. The way the JCDR is improving with every new volume, with good quality original manuscripts, makes it a quality journal for readers. I must thank and congratulate Dr Hemant Jain, Editor-in-Chief JCDR and his team for their sincere efforts, dedication, and determination for making JCDR a fast growing journal.
Every one of us: authors, reviewers, editors, and publisher are responsible for enhancing the stature of the journal. I wish for a great success for JCDR."
Thanking you
With sincere regards
Dr. Rajendra Kumar Ghritlaharey, M.S., M. Ch., FAIS
Associate Professor,
Department of Paediatric Surgery, Gandhi Medical College & Associated
Kamla Nehru & Hamidia Hospitals Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462 001 (India)
E-mail: drrajendrak1@rediffmail.com
On May 11,2011
Dr. Shankar P.R.
"On looking back through my Gmail archives after being requested by the journal to write a short editorial about my experiences of publishing with the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR), I came across an e-mail from Dr. Hemant Jain, Editor, in March 2007, which introduced the new electronic journal. The main features of the journal which were outlined in the e-mail were extensive author support, cash rewards, the peer review process, and other salient features of the journal.
Over a span of over four years, we (I and my colleagues) have published around 25 articles in the journal. In this editorial, I plan to briefly discuss my experiences of publishing with JCDR and the strengths of the journal and to finally address the areas for improvement.
My experiences of publishing with JCDR: Overall, my experiences of publishing withJCDR have been positive. The best point about the journal is that it responds to queries from the author. This may seem to be simple and not too much to ask for, but unfortunately, many journals in the subcontinent and from many developing countries do not respond or they respond with a long delay to the queries from the authors 1. The reasons could be many, including lack of optimal secretarial and other support. Another problem with many journals is the slowness of the review process. Editorial processing and peer review can take anywhere between a year to two years with some journals. Also, some journals do not keep the contributors informed about the progress of the review process. Due to the long review process, the articles can lose their relevance and topicality. A major benefit with JCDR is the timeliness and promptness of its response. In Dr Jain's e-mail which was sent to me in 2007, before the introduction of the Pre-publishing system, he had stated that he had received my submission and that he would get back to me within seven days and he did!
Most of the manuscripts are published within 3 to 4 months of their submission if they are found to be suitable after the review process. JCDR is published bimonthly and the accepted articles were usually published in the next issue. Recently, due to the increased volume of the submissions, the review process has become slower and it ?? Section can take from 4 to 6 months for the articles to be reviewed. The journal has an extensive author support system and it has recently introduced a paid expedited review process. The journal also mentions the average time for processing the manuscript under different submission systems - regular submission and expedited review.
Strengths of the journal: The journal has an online first facility in which the accepted manuscripts may be published on the website before being included in a regular issue of the journal. This cuts down the time between their acceptance and the publication. The journal is indexed in many databases, though not in PubMed. The editorial board should now take steps to index the journal in PubMed. The journal has a system of notifying readers through e-mail when a new issue is released. Also, the articles are available in both the HTML and the PDF formats. I especially like the new and colorful page format of the journal. Also, the access statistics of the articles are available. The prepublication and the manuscript tracking system are also helpful for the authors.
Areas for improvement: In certain cases, I felt that the peer review process of the manuscripts was not up to international standards and that it should be strengthened. Also, the number of manuscripts in an issue is high and it may be difficult for readers to go through all of them. The journal can consider tightening of the peer review process and increasing the quality standards for the acceptance of the manuscripts. I faced occasional problems with the online manuscript submission (Pre-publishing) system, which have to be addressed.
Overall, the publishing process with JCDR has been smooth, quick and relatively hassle free and I can recommend other authors to consider the journal as an outlet for their work."
Dr. P. Ravi Shankar
KIST Medical College, P.O. Box 14142, Kathmandu, Nepal.
E-mail: ravi.dr.shankar@gmail.com
On April 2011 Anuradha
Dear team JCDR, I would like to thank you for the very professional and polite service provided by everyone at JCDR. While i have been in the field of writing and editing for sometime, this has been my first attempt in publishing a scientific paper.Thank you for hand-holding me through the process.
Dr. Anuradha
E-mail: anuradha2nittur@gmail.com
On Jan 2020
Reviews
Full Version
Revolutionising Precision and Efficiency of Dental Implant Placement through Digital Planning Software: A Narrative Review
Correspondence Address :
Neeti Mittal,
No. 1, Santosh Nagar, Pratap Vihar, Ghaziabad-201009, Uttar Pradesh, India.
E-mail: dr.neetipgi@gmail.com
Advancements have transformed dentistry, and digital planning software has emerged as a revolutionary tool in implantology. The present review explores the capabilities, benefits, and limitations of digital planning software in implantology, emphasising its impact on clinical practice and patient outcomes. Traditional implant planning relied on Two-dimensional (2D) radiographs and physical study models, limiting accuracy and predictability. Digital planning software utilises advanced imaging technologies to generate precise Three-dimensional (3D) models of the patient’s dentition, enabling comprehensive treatment planning. Key features include 3D visualisation, virtual implant placement, prosthetic-driven planning, and simulations. These features enhance accuracy, enable collaborative decision-making, and streamline the treatment process. Commercially available digital planning software options offer similar advantages but also have unique features. Studies support the clinical efficacy of digital planning in implant placement, showing improved accuracy, patient satisfaction, and reduced complications. However, more randomised controlled trials are needed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of digitally guided implant placement. Considerations include the need for high-quality input data, a learning curve for software proficiency, and cost considerations. Nevertheless, digital planning software has become an indispensable tool in implantology, enhancing treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. The future of digital planning software in implantology lies in Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, automation, and personalised recommendations. With ongoing advancements, digital planning software will continue to revolutionise implantology, optimising treatment planning and execution for improved patient care.
Computer-aided design, Digital dentistry, Dental implants, Implant planning software, Virtual implant planning
Advancements in technology have revolutionised numerous fields within medicine, and dentistry is no exception (1). Over the past decade, digital planning software has emerged as a game-changing tool in the field of implantology. These software solutions offer clinicians a precise and efficient approach to dental implant placement, transforming the way oral rehabilitation is conducted. Dental implantology has experienced remarkable growth as a reliable and durable treatment modality for tooth loss (2). Traditional implant planning involved the use of 2D radiographs and physical study models, which relied heavily on clinician experience and intuition. However, this conventional approach posed limitations in terms of accuracy, visualisation, and predictability (3).
The advent of digital planning software has revolutionised implantology by offering clinicians a 3D virtual platform for comprehensive treatment planning. These software solutions utilise advanced imaging technologies, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and intraoral scanning, to generate accurate and detailed 3D models of the patient’s dentition (3). These virtual models serve as a blueprint for precise implant placement, enabling clinicians to evaluate bone quality and quantity, determine optimal implant size, position, and angulation, and anticipate prosthetic outcomes with exceptional accuracy.
The present review aimed to explore the capabilities, benefits, and limitations of digital planning software in implantology, shedding light on its impact on clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Key historical developments in the evolution of digital planning software: Digital planning software has evolved significantly over the years, revolutionising the way individuals and organisations manage their tasks and projects. The historical background of these software solutions can be traced back to the early days of computer technology and the advent of personal computers. In the 1980s, with the rise of personal computing, various rudimentary planning tools began to emerge, primarily as standalone desktop applications. These early software programmes provided basic functionality such as task lists, calendars, and reminders, aimed at helping individuals stay organised and manage their time effectively (4),(5),(6).
As computing technology advanced, the capabilities of planning software expanded as well. In the 1990s, with the proliferation of the internet, web-based planning tools emerged, allowing for collaboration and real-time sharing of information across teams and organisations. These web-based solutions brought about a new era in digital planning, enabling seamless communication and coordination among team members, regardless of their physical location. In the early 2000s, the concept of project management gained traction, leading to the development of more robust planning software. As cloud computing gained popularity, online project management platforms emerged, offering anytime, anywhere access to project data and fostering collaboration on a global scale (5),(6),(7).
Over the years, digital planning software has continued to evolve and adapt to the needs of users. Modern planning tools now offer a wide range of features, including task assignment, progress tracking, document sharing, communication channels, and analytics, all within a user-friendly interface. Furthermore, integration with other productivity tools, such as email clients, messaging applications, and document management systems, has become commonplace, ensuring a seamless workflow across various applications (7).
Key features and functionality: Digital planning software offers an array of features and tools designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of dental implant placement. These platforms enable clinicians to manipulate virtual models, facilitating comprehensive treatment planning from surgical placement to final prosthesis design (3),(4),(5). Key features include:
• 3D visualisation: Digital planning software provides a clear and detailed visualisation of the patient’s anatomy, allowing clinicians to assess critical structures, such as the proximity of nerves, sinuses, and adjacent teeth. This comprehensive visualisation helps in identifying potential anatomical challenges and selecting the most suitable implant sites (3).
• Virtual implant placement: Clinicians can virtually position implants within the 3D model, considering bone quality, quantity, and aesthetic considerations. The software aids in selecting the appropriate implant size, angulation, and depth, ensuring optimal support and stability for the final prosthesis [4,5].
• Prosthetic-driven planning: Digital planning software facilitates a prosthetic-driven approach, which emphasises the final restoration during implant planning. Clinicians can virtually design the desired prosthesis, ensuring harmonious integration with the patient’s dentition and surrounding structures. This approach enhances treatment predictability and enables efficient communication with the dental laboratory (5).
• Simulations and predictive tools: These software solutions often incorporate simulation tools that allow clinicians to assess the biomechanical aspects of implant placement. Virtual simulations aid in evaluating stress distribution, occlusal forces, and bone-implant interface dynamics, thereby assisting in treatment optimisation and reducing the risk of complications (3),(4),(5),(7).
Key Technical Developments
• Cone beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): The introduction of CBCT by Mozzo P et al., in 1998 and its subsequent approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [4,8] in 2001 has significantly transformed the diagnosis and treatment planning of dental implants. Previously, dentistry, including implant dentistry, heavily relied on conventional 2D periapical and panoramic radiographs, while oral and maxillofacial surgeons were familiar with 3D facial-skeletal evaluations through Computerised Axial Tomography (CT/CAT) scans. CBCT revolutionised dental radiology by providing high-resolution 3D images, reducing radiation exposure, and offering convenience with a quick scan time. However, it has some limitations such as image graininess, limited contrast resolution, and the challenge of integrating CBCT images into dental implant planning software applications (9).
• Intraoral Optical Scanners (IOS): Over the past 30 years, the use of IOSs in dentistry has evolved with advancements in Computer-aided Design/Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies (10). Initially adopted by restorative dentists and prosthodontists, the ergonomics, size, and cost of scanners have improved, making them more accessible to various dental specialties. IOS can generate Standard Triangulation Language (STL) files, which can be imported into treatment planning software applications, allowing their use in orthodontics, periodontal surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and dental implantology. The combination of IOS-generated STL files and CT/CBCT imaging enables accurate treatment planning, virtual tooth placement, and precise dental implant placement (4),(10).
• Surgical implant planning software and guided instrumentation: For over two decades, dental implant planning software applications have been developed and refined (3),(11). These software applications, either open or closed, allow for treatment planning and surgical guide fabrication using different dental implant systems. Many dental implant manufacturers offer implant-specific guided surgery instrumentation, facilitating accurate implant placement while avoiding anatomical structures. Guided surgery can be fully guided, involving the use of guided instrumentation throughout the drilling sequence, or pilot-guided, with guidance limited to the initial osteotomy. Stereolithographically produced, milled, or printed surgical guides are commonly used in guided surgery workflows.
• In-office printers: Most implant planning software applications support the creation of surgical guide STL files, which can be used for guide fabrication through stereolithography, milling, or printing. In-office 3D printers have been developed to enable clinicians to print surgical guides themselves (4),(12). While the cost-effectiveness of providing in-office printing services may be debated, some clinicians opt for this approach. However, concerns have been raised regarding the accuracy and appropriateness of in-office printers compared to manufacturer-produced surgical guides (4).
Static surgical guides and dynamic navigation: Guided surgery using “static” surgical guides has been extensively researched and established for more than 15 years (1),(6),(13). Dynamic navigation and robotic surgery have recently emerged as alternative techniques, but the supporting literature is limited, particularly for robotic surgery. While there are ongoing debates among clinicians regarding the advantages, disadvantages, technical considerations, equipment variations, costs, time commitment, ease of use, and supporting evidence of different guided implant placement technologies, it is widely acknowledged that guided implant placement offers superior accuracy and predictability compared to freehand placement (13).
Today, digital planning software has become an indispensable tool for individuals, teams, and organisations across different industries, facilitating efficient project management, optimising resource allocation, and enhancing overall productivity. With the advent of AI and machine learning, the future of planning software holds the promise of advanced automation, predictive analytics, and personalised recommendations, further empowering users to plan, execute, and succeed in their endeavors (3),(4).
Clinical benefits and outcomes: The integration of digital planning software in implantology has brought forth numerous clinical benefits, leading to improved patient outcomes (1),(2). Firstly, these platforms enhance accuracy and precision in implant placement, minimising the risk of surgical complications and ensuring predictable results. By virtually visualising the implant site, clinicians can anticipate anatomical challenges and devise appropriate treatment strategies, reducing the incidence of nerve injury, sinus perforation, and damage to adjacent teeth (5).
Secondly, digital planning software facilitates a collaborative approach between the clinician, the dental laboratory, and the patient. The ability to share 3D models and treatment plans enhances communication, enabling a more comprehensive and patient-centered treatment experience. Patients can visualise the proposed treatment outcomes, fostering better understanding and informed decision-making (5),(7). Lastly, the efficiency of digital planning software streamlines the treatment process, saving valuable chairside time and reducing patient discomfort. With accurate preoperative planning, the surgical procedure becomes more efficient, requiring fewer adjustments and reducing the need for additional interventions. This not only improves patient satisfaction but also enhances the overall cost-effectiveness of implant treatment (7).
Limitation(s) and Consideration(s)
While digital planning software offers numerous advantages, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations and consider certain factors when utilising these platforms in clinical practice. Firstly, the accuracy and reliability of the software depend on the quality of the input data, such as CBCT scans and intraoral impressions (3),(14). Clinicians must ensure the acquisition of high-quality images and accurate digital impressions to optimise the accuracy of the virtual models.
Additionally, the learning curve associated with digital planning software should be considered. Clinicians and their teams may require training and practice to fully harness the capabilities of these platforms. Adequate knowledge and proficiency in software manipulation, interpretation of virtual models, and understanding the limitations of the technology are crucial for successful implementation (4),(10). Furthermore, the cost of acquiring and maintaining digital planning software should be taken into account. These platforms often involve significant initial investments, including hardware, software licenses, and staff training. Clinicians must carefully evaluate the cost-benefit ratio based on their practice’s specific needs and patient population (10).
The commercially available digital planning software (Table/Fig 1) (15),(16),(17),(18),(19),(20),(21),(22),(23),(24),(25): A variety of digital planning systems are already available on the market, such as Keystone Dental’s 3D Diagnostix (15), OnDemand3D (16), Dental Wings DWOS Implant (17), Exocad Dental CAD (18), Planmeca Romexis® Implant (19), 3Shape Implant Studio (20), Noble Clinician (21), coDiagnostiX (22), Blue Sky Plan (23), Simplant software (24), and R2Gate software (25). All of these software options provide 3D visualisation, virtual implant placement, prosthetic-driven planning, simulation tools, and collaboration features. They are available at varying costs with excellent customer support. However, they may vary in user interfaces and integration with other implant systems. Some software options that are likely to be available in India include OnDemand3D (16), Dental Wings DWOS Implant (17), Exocad Dental CAD (18), Planmeca Romexis® Implant (19), 3Shape Implant Studio (20), Noble Clinician (21), Blue Sky Plan (23), Simplant software (24), and R2Gate system (25).
While the advantages of digital planning software are common in most software options, each software also offers unique features and strengths. Let’s take a look at some examples:
• Keystone Dental’s 3DDiagnostix (15): Keystone Dental’s 3D Diagnostix software stands out for its customisable user interface, user-friendly experience, and excellent customer support. It integrates with various systems, such as intraoral scanners, and offers collaboration features for enhanced teamwork.
• On Demand 3D (16): On Demand 3D software is known for its intuitive navigation, easy integration with CAD/CAM systems, and comprehensive customer support. It provides a simplified user interface and streamlined workflow for efficient treatment planning.
• Dental wings DWOS implant (17): Dental Wings DWOS implant software offers a user-friendly interface, seamless integration with Dental Wings CAD/CAM systems, and comprehensive implant planning capabilities. Its focus on comprehensive planning ensures accurate and efficient treatment workflows.
• Exocad DentalCAD (18): Exocad DentalCAD software provides a customisable interface, workflow-oriented design, and seamless integration with various CAD/CAM systems. Its flexibility allows users to adapt the software to their preferences and optimise their workflow (Table/Fig 2)a-d.
• PlanmecaRomexis® implant (19): PlanmecaRomexis® Implant software offers an intuitive and streamlined user experience, integration with Planmeca CAD/CAM systems, and excellent customer support. Its user-friendly interface simplifies treatment planning and collaboration.
• 3Shape implant studio (20): 3Shape Implant Studio software is known for its modern and intuitive user interface, integration with 3Shape CAD/CAM systems, and advanced implant planning capabilities. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools for precise treatment planning.
• Noble clinician (21): Noble Clinician software offers a user-friendly interface, comprehensive implant planning features, and integration with various systems, such as intraoral scanners. Its emphasis on comprehensive treatment planning ensures accurate and efficient implant placement.
• coDiagnostiX (22): coDiagnostiX software offers an intuitive user interface, comprehensive planning capabilities, and extensive integration with systems such as intraoral scanners and CAD/CAM systems. Its user-friendly design promotes efficient treatment planning and collaboration.
• Blue sky plan (23): Blue Sky Plan software is known for its user-friendly and simplified interface, seamless integration with intraoral scanners, and comprehensive implant planning features. Its streamlined design ensures easy treatment planning and intuitive navigation (Table/Fig 3)a-f.
• Simplant software (24): Simplant software provides advanced features, rich simulation tools, and seamless integration with various systems. It offers precise implant placement, virtual planning, and surgical guide design capabilities. Simplant’s strength lies in its comprehensive implant planning and simulation tools, allowing clinicians to visualise the final outcome and assess anatomical structures for optimal implant placement.
• R2Gate (25): R2Gate software offers an intuitive user interface, comprehensive implant planning features, and advanced integration capabilities. It provides tools for accurate virtual implant placement, bone density analysis, and prosthetic-driven planning. R2Gate’s unique feature is its emphasis on bone density analysis, allowing clinicians to assess bone quality and plan implant placement accordingly (Table/Fig 4)a-f.
Each of the above mentioned software options (15),(16),(17),(18),(19),(20),(21),(22),(23),(24),(25) has its own strengths and unique features, catering to the diverse needs of implantologists. These digital planning software solutions provide clinicians with powerful tools to visualise and plan implant treatments accurately, resulting in improved treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. The common advantages of enhanced visualisation, virtual implant placement, prosthetic-driven planning, and simulation tools, combined with the unique features of each software, make them indispensable in modern implantology practice (10),(15).
Clinical efficacy of digital planning in implant placement: The extensive search on the PubMed database provided only nine randomised control trials that offer valuable insights into the accuracy and outcomes of different implant placement techniques in a digitally guided workflow (Table/Fig 5) (13),(26),(27),(28),(29),(30),(31),(32),(33). Orban K et al., conducted a prospective, randomised study comparing half-guided implant placement using machine-driven or manual insertion methods (26). The results indicated that half-guided implant placement with machine-driven insertion demonstrated superior accuracy compared to manual insertion. Franchina A et al., performed a randomised in-vitro study comparing the accuracy of the intraoral scan method versus cone beam computed tomography superimposition in assessing dental implant accuracy (27). The findings revealed that the intraoral scan method showed comparable accuracy to cone beam computed tomography superimposition, providing a reliable alternative for evaluating implant positions.
In another randomised controlled trial, Sancho-Puchades M et al., compared conventional and computer-assisted implant planning and placement in partially edentulous patients (28). The study demonstrated that computer-assisted implant planning and placement resulted in improved patient satisfaction and comfort compared to conventional methods. Lou F et al., evaluated the accuracy of partially guided and fully guided templates in implant surgery of anterior teeth through a randomised controlled trial (29). Their findings showed that fully guided templates achieved higher accuracy and reduced deviation compared to partially guided templates, particularly in anterior tooth implant surgery.
Tallarico M et al., conducted a randomised controlled trial to assess the accuracy of computer-assisted template-based implant placement using conventional impression and scan model or intraoral digital impression (30). Both methods yielded accurate implant placement with similar outcomes after one year of follow-up.
Wei SM et al., investigated the accuracy of machine-vision-assisted dynamic navigation in digitally planned prosthetically guided immediate implant placement (31). The study revealed that machine-vision-assisted dynamic navigation improved the accuracy of immediate implant placement compared to conventional methods.
Varga E et al., compared the accuracy of freehand versus guided dental implantation in a randomised clinical trial (13). The results indicated that guided dental implantation resulted in higher accuracy and reduced deviation compared to freehand implantation.
Smitkarn P et al., evaluated the accuracy of single-tooth implants placed using fully digital-guided surgery versus freehand implant surgery (32). Their findings showed that fully digital-guided surgery achieved higher accuracy and reduced deviation compared to freehand implant surgery in single-tooth implant placement.
Finally, Ngamprasertkit C et al., conducted a randomised clinical trial comparing implant position accuracy between using only a surgical drill guide and a surgical drill guide with an implant guide in a fully digital workflow (33). The study demonstrated that the use of a surgical drill guide with an implant guide in a fully digital workflow improved implant position accuracy compared to using only a surgical drill guide.
Overall, these studies provide valuable evidence supporting the effectiveness and accuracy of various implant placement techniques, highlighting the benefits of incorporating advanced technologies and computer-assisted planning in implant dentistry (15),(16),(17),(18),(19),(20),(21),(22),(23),(24),(25). These findings have important implications for clinical practice and can help guide clinicians in selecting the most appropriate approach for achieving optimal implant placement outcomes.
However, there is a dearth of randomised controlled trials (34),(35),(36),(37),(38),(39),(40),(41),(42) on the clinical outcomes of digitally guided implant placement, with some studies being retrospective (34),(37),(38),(41) and others prospective (35),(36),(39),(40),(42). (Table/Fig 6), (Table/Fig 7) have evaluated the clinical outcomes in terms of implant survival rate, marginal bone loss, and implant-prosthesis failure over variable follow-up periods in healed and/or immediate extraction sockets for single tooth replacement to provision of full arch prosthesis (34),(35),(36),(37),(38),(39),(40),(41),(42). The findings of these studies (34),(35),(36),(37),(38),(39),(40),(41),(42) have depicted excellent implant survival rates and minimal bone loss (34),(35),(36),(37),(38),(39),(40),(41), lending weight to the positive impact of digital planning on the clinical outcomes of implants.
Future Perspectives: As digital planning software continues to evolve, the future holds promising advancements in implantology. Integration with AI algorithms may enhance the accuracy and efficiency of treatment planning, offering automated suggestions for implant positioning, bone augmentation, and prosthesis design. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies may further enhance the clinician’s visualisation and decision-making processes, providing a more immersive and intuitive planning experience (10),(33),(40),(41),(42). Furthermore, advancements in additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, may facilitate the fabrication of patient-specific surgical guides and customised implant restorations. The integration of digital planning software with 3D printing technologies could streamline the treatment workflow, reducing chairside time and improving treatment outcomes (12).
Digital planning software has revolutionised implantology by offering clinicians a precise, efficient, and patient-centered approach to dental implant placement. With its 3D visualisation, virtual implant placement, prosthetic-driven planning, and predictive tools, these platforms empower clinicians to optimise treatment outcomes, enhance patient communication, and streamline the treatment process. However, it is crucial to consider the limitations and costs associated with these technologies. As technology continues to advance, the future holds exciting possibilities for further enhancing implant planning and rehabilitation, paving the way for improved patient care in implantology.
DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2023/67061.18799
Date of Submission: Aug 16, 2023
Date of Peer Review: Oct 07, 2023
Date of Acceptance: Nov 16, 2023
Date of Publishing: Dec 01, 2023
AUTHOR DECLARATION:
• Financial or Other Competing Interests: None
• Was Ethics Committee Approval obtained for this study? No
• Was informed consent obtained from the subjects involved in the study? No
• For any images presented appropriate consent has been obtained from the subjects. NA
PLAGIARISM CHECKING METHODS:
• Plagiarism X-checker: Aug 28, 2023
• Manual Googling: Nov 11, 2023
• iThenticate Software: Nov 14, 2023 (3%)
ETYMOLOGY: Author Origin
EMENDATIONS: 6
- Emerging Sources Citation Index (Web of Science, thomsonreuters)
- Index Copernicus ICV 2017: 134.54
- Academic Search Complete Database
- Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ)
- Embase
- EBSCOhost
- Google Scholar
- HINARI Access to Research in Health Programme
- Indian Science Abstracts (ISA)
- Journal seek Database
- Popline (reproductive health literature)
- www.omnimedicalsearch.com