Accuracy of guided versus freehand implant placement for in vitro models using 3D-printed surgical guides

Proper positioning of implants is necessary in attaining optimum functional and aesthetic results, but freehand methods tend to result in displacement. Therefore, it is of interest to compare the accuracy of 3D-printed surgical guides and free hand placement of implants in polyurethane jaw models. Angular, horizontal and vertical deviation was much lower with guided implants than with freehand placement. Guided surgery also significantly decreased operator variability. Three dimensional printed surgical maps increase the accuracy of implant placement, which justify that they should be used to promote better predictability and clinical performance.