In this insightful session of EAO’s Just Ask [LIVE], Tali Chackartchi, a periodontology expert and experienced clinician from Israel, shares her expertise on the digital transformation of implant surgery. With over 15 years of involvement in digital surgery, Tali provides valuable insights into how these technologies enhance precision, outcomes, and patient recovery in implantology.
Tali starts by discussing the critical role of computer-supported implant planning and guided surgery. She highlights the advantages of digital tools in managing challenging aesthetic cases, particularly in the anterior region, where imperfections are most noticeable. Through digital simulations, clinicians can plan implant placements more accurately, avoiding complications such as screw openings through the incisal edge or intraoperative bone fenestrations.
By using digital tools, surgeons can plan the entire procedure in advance, including the position of implants and the necessary adjustments to bone and soft tissues. The ability to use 3D-printed guides during surgery enhances precision, enabling flapless procedures and reducing healing time for patients. These tools also facilitate better communication within the surgical team, improving the overall treatment process.
Despite these advancements, Tali acknowledges the reluctance some experienced clinicians feel about adopting digital tools. She emphasizes that these technologies do not replace expertise but serve to enhance the surgeon’s capabilities. She advises new practitioners to start with simpler cases to familiarize themselves with the workflow, allowing them to gain confidence before tackling more complex procedures.
Looking to the future, Tali discusses the exciting potential of augmented reality (AR) in implantology. AR could one day replace traditional physical guides, providing real-time, interactive planning directly in the surgeon’s field of view. As this technology advances, it promises to further revolutionize the field, making implant procedures even more efficient and precise.
Tali’s session is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the intersection of digital technology and implant surgery, offering both practical advice and a glimpse into the future of the field.