Dave Juliani The one major positive factor ALL CEREC users can agree on is how CAD/CAM has simplified the way we practice day to day. One of the understated capabilities of the CEREC machine is the ability to mill surgical guides when integrated with 3D technology from Sirona (Galileos or XG3D). With time becoming ever more important to our patients, CEREC technology is the one piece of equipment I cannot imagine practicing without. As our implant practice is growing, we have become increasingly more aware of the ability to mill surgical guides and place implants in one appointment if indicated. Obviously the patient must be a good candidate for immediate placement and fit the criteria for a successful implant. If they do not, we will fabricate the guide for use when placement is indicated. The entire process takes no more than an hour. An impression is made of the arch the implant is to be placed in. A hydroplastic tray is made to position the reference body for the 3D scan. A digital impression is taken with your CEREC machine and the restoration is virtually designed and imported into the Sidexis software. At that point you are able to position your implant for a successful final restoration with the end result of the restoration directing the implant placement. Once you are happy with the final implant position, the surgical guide is calculated and exported to your CEREC software for milling. The patient is now ready for surgery using the guide milled and designed in office.
