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FHDI: DentalPlus & SIM/Plant
Your doctor has requested an examination that can help guide successful placement of dental implants.
This examination is most often used to help plan the placement of osseointegrated implants.
DentalPlus produces a "roadmap" of jaw anatomy, to increase the likelihood of successful implant placement. More information can be gained from DentalPlus than from routine studies, such as panoramic X-rays or linear tomography.
The first step in the DentalPlus study is a brief CT scan (or "CAT scan") of your jaw.
After you leave, we use computer technology to produce life-size filmed or SIM/Plant computer files that your doctor can use to see and precisely measure the anatomy.
Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
How long will it take?
You will be asked to lie very still for 5 minutes while the scan is being done.
If there is any motion showing on the CT images, the study may be repeated.
What types of DentalPlus studies are there?
Single site -- Shows bone anatomy at a single tooth location and neighboring tooth sites, for the patient needing a single implant.
Quadrant study -- Evaluates one of four divisions of the upper and lower jaw, to plan exact placement of one or more implants.
Complete exam -- This is the most comprehensive study. It provides diagnostic information about the entire maxilla or mandible (upper or lower jaw).
Preparation
Your doctor may provide you with a plastic mouthpiece (called a "stent") to wear during your examination. This marks proposed implant locations. You should bring this stent with you to your examination. After completing the CT scan, return the stent to your doctor's office; it may be used later as a guide for your surgery.
There are no dietary restrictions or other preparations required.
Risks and complications
The CT scanner uses standardized low-dose X-rays. There are no injections involved. There are no known or suspected complications.
We welcome your questions
Please study this page carefully. If you have any questions, be sure to ask us.
Billing
These studies are billed as medical diagnostic procedures.
We are preferred providers for most health plans. If your insurance is a managed-care plan, you may need a referral from your primary care physician.
As a courtesy, we will bill your insurance program on your behalf. Ultimately, you are responsible for payment.
For any portion not paid by your insurance, we accept cash, personal checks, Visa and MasterCard.
About First Hill Diagnostic Imaging
Our physicians are board-certified radiologists with many years of diagnostic imaging experience. We have been doing dental imaging since 1989 and have authored articles and book chapters on advanced dental imaging.
Our technologists and support staff are exemplary. The entire First Hill team is committed to making your visit comfortable and personalized.
Please call with any questions or concerns.
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