What photo is required for the implant? A complete guide before dental implants - Center for Gum and Implant Surgery, Dr. Affir and Dr. Shanae
Dr. Mohammad Hossein confirmed
KarajSpecialist in gum surgery - implant
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Perhaps it has happened to you that the doctor said you should take a photo before implanting a tooth and you don't know exactly what photo is needed for the implant. In fact, this is one of the common questions among people who intend to have dental implants.
For implant treatment, a stepwise imaging pathway is usually required: first two-dimensional imaging (panoramic and/or periapical) for initial evaluation, and then for detailed surgical planning, in most cases "cross-sectional imaging" (preferably CBCT) to assess bone width/height and distance to vital structures.
https://www.swissdentaljournal.org/article/download/8876/7331/20001
Pre-implant photography helps the dentist to accurately check the condition of the jawbone, the roots of the adjacent teeth and the space required for the placement of the implant base. Without a photo, the doctor does not have a complete view of the internal state of the jaw, and the treatment procedures may be accompanied by errors. Therefore, the photo is the first step for safe and successful dental implant planning.
In specialized implant clinics, the type of photo is determined based on the condition of the jaw and the location of the missing tooth. Some patients only need a panoramic photo, but in some cases, a more detailed photo such as CBCT is prescribed to check the volume of the bone and the distance to the nerves. Knowing the type of photo and its purpose makes the treatment process faster and more accurate.
This article has been prepared under the scientific supervision of Dr. Mohammad Hossein Affir and Dr. Fareshte Shanei, specialists in gum and implant surgery. Its purpose is to increase your awareness and it is not a substitute for a specialist doctor's visit. In the following, you will read exactly what photo is required for the implant and what is the use of each one.
Why should we take photos before implants?
The first step for a successful implant is to carefully examine the condition of the jaw bone and the tissues around the tooth. Imaging allows the doctor to see the bone density, the exact location of the nerves and maxillary sinuses, and to decide if the condition of the jaw is suitable for implant metal abutment.
In fact, without photos, dental implants may be associated with the risk of damage to sensitive tissues or incorrect displacement of the base. For this reason, taking pictures before the implant is not only necessary, but also considered the foundation of a safe and lasting treatment.
Dental photos act like a detailed map for the dentist and clarify the treatment path. These images show whether there is enough bone to support the implant, how the sinuses are, and whether there is an infection or hidden problem in the jaw.
If you have a question about what is a dental implant photo and why the doctor considers it necessary, you should know that the goal is to check the structure of the jaw and teeth in detail. To perform these procedures under the supervision of an experienced doctor, you can visit implant specialist in Karaj.
types of photos required for dental implants
In response to what image is needed for the implant, the dentist usually prescribes one of the following three types of images based on the conditions of your jaw and teeth. Each of these images provides different information to the doctor so that the implant can be implanted more accurately and safely:
- Panoramic photo (OPG): This photo shows a general view of both jaws, teeth, jaw joint and sinuses. With its help, the doctor can measure the exact location of the missing tooth and the overall condition of the jaw bone.
- CBCT image: This type of three-dimensional image determines the exact details of volume, density and height of the bone and is very necessary to determine the exact position of the implant base.
- Periapical photo: This photo shows a smaller area of the jaw and is used to closely examine the roots, tissues around the tooth and any possible inflammation or lesion.
difference between panoramic photo and CBCT in implant

What is a dental implant photo? In short, a panoramic photo is a two-dimensional image of the entire jaw, but a CBCT shows three-dimensional and more detailed details of the bone, sinuses, and nerves of the jaw. While the panoramic photo is suitable for the general assessment of the condition of the teeth, the CBCT provides the possibility of viewing the bone volume and the exact location of the implant. For this reason, in most implant treatments, CBCT is used as the main diagnostic and planning tool.
Cost and location of pre-implant photo-preparation
In the previous sections, we discussed what kind of photo is needed for a dental implant. The cost of the photo before the implant varies depending on its type; Generally, the panoramic image is less expensive, but for a more detailed examination of the jawbone and the implant site, a 3D CBCT image is performed at a higher cost. It is recommended to take these photos in specialized dental centers that are equipped with up-to-date digital devices so that the accuracy of diagnosis is higher and the amount of radiation is lower.
If you don't know what photo is needed for the implant or where to do it, for advice and to determine the exact type of photo needed, you can call 09129559071 or at Karaj St. Beheshti, between Shahada Square and Taleghani Crossroads, 7th Floor Medical Tower, Unit 23.
last-letter
If you still don't know what photo is needed for an implant, you should know that the type of photo is determined according to the condition of the jaw, bone density and the number of missing teeth. By examining these images, the doctor can make the most accurate decision for the implant location, angle and depth of the implant base.
The right photo makes the treatment faster, safer and more durable, while not having an accurate image may affect the final result of the implant.
This article has been prepared under the scientific supervision of Dr. Mohammad Hossein Shimfar and Dr. Fereshte Shanae, specialists in gum and implant surgery, and its purpose is to increase your awareness.
If you have questions about what a dental implant picture is and which type is best for your condition, call 09129559071 or fill out the following form:
FAQ
What photo is needed for the implant?
In response to the question that what photo is needed for dental implants; In the first step, I must say that the type of photo depends on the expert's opinion and the condition of your mouth and jaw. Usually, one of three types of panoramic, CBCT, or periapical photos are required, which the doctor determines based on the condition of the jaw and teeth.
What is a photo of a dental implant and what is its use?
The photo of the dental implant is a detailed image of the jawbone and the location of the missing tooth, which helps the doctor to choose the place of the implant base more accurately.
Is CBCT necessary for all patients?
No, only in cases where the doctor needs a three-dimensional examination of bone density and volume, CBCT is prescribed.
Where should we take the photo before the implant?
It is better to take the photo in specialized dental centers or clinics that are equipped with up-to-date digital devices so that the accuracy of the diagnosis is higher.