New dental technologies something to smile about

Geisinger oral surgeons utilizing software to map out the placement of implants for enhanced outcomes

June 24, 2009, DANVILLE – According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), 69 percent of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay. And, by age 74, 26 percent of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth.

The good news is dental implants have provided a permanent solution to these dental issues, and technology is playing a big role in their success.

“Bridges or dentures come with their own issues, from bone loss, recurrent decay and gum disease, plus the need for replacement every seven to 10 years. Dental implants offer very long-term, if not permanent, solutions to missing teeth,” said Robert Pellecchia, DDS,
director, Geisinger Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Medicine. “And, recent technologies have enhanced the implant process for a higher level of accuracy – and success.”

This technology, Virtual Implant Placement (VIP) software from BioHorizons, allows the oral surgeon to obtain a 3-D image of the patient’s jaw for enhanced diagnostic planning.

“Prior to this type of software, surgeons were limited to 2-D images when determining the appropriate placement of an implant. VIP provides greater precision for better outcomes and reduces the potential for future implant failure,” said Dr. Pellecchia. “The ability to plan more accurately prior to implantation is paramount to success.”

In addition, Geisinger recently introduced Dolphin 3D software for reconstructive surgeries. According to Pellecchia, this, when used in concert with VIP, will enhance the planning process even further, setting the stage for incredible outcomes.

“Implants are a very natural-looking, permanent solution for patients. And new technologies provide the peace of mind to patients that the final result will be a beautiful, healthy smile,” said Dr. Pellecchia.

About Geisinger Health System
Founded in 1915, Geisinger Health System (Danville, PA) is one of the nation’s largest integrated health services organizations.  Serving more than two million residents throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania, the physician-led organization is at the forefront of the country's rapidly emerging electronic health records movement. Geisinger is comprised of two medical center campuses, three hospitals, a 740-member group practice, a not-for-profit health insurance company and the Henry Hood Center for Health Research—dedicated to creating innovative new models for patient care, satisfaction and clinical outcomes. For more information, visit www.geisinger.org.