[Preoperative planning for the placement of a single implant]

Radiography is of primary importance for the preoperative planning of oral implant placement. Depending on the indication, various techniques are available, each with its own merits and drawbacks. In general, it can be stated that the intra-oral radiography using the paralleling technique is the method of choice for a solitary tooth replacement. Panoramic radiography is indicated for implant placement in the symphyseal area of the lower jaw. Cross-sectional imaging is performed when information is needed in the bucco-lingual dimension. Conventional tomography is recommended for preoperative planning of limited edentulous areas. CT-scan imaging is required for rehabilitation of extended edentulous areas or in complex maxillofacial surgery combined with implant placement. Choosing the optimal technique can be performed by weighing the radiation dosage and the diagnostic information required.