Digitally guided root removal and simultaneous implant placement: A case study

BackgroundEncountering a retained root tip post-extraction and prior to implant placement is a possible clinical complication. There are numerous approaches for removing retained roots that may be traumatic or atraumatic. Regardless of the approach, careful treatment planning is important to minimize complications, reduce morbidity, and preserve bony structures. The aim of the current case study is to introduce a technique and digitally generated device used for identifying and atraumatically removing a retained root tip and simultaneously placing a stable dental implant.MethodsA 63-year-old female with a history of myocardial infarction, hypertension, and acute pancreatitis presented for implant placement at site #5. Clinical examination revealed adequate interocclusal, mesiodistal, and buccolingual dimensions for implant placement. Radiographic examination using cone beam computed tomography revealed that retained root #5 interfered with implant placement. Digital planning was used to extract the root tip with minimal trauma to maintain adequate bone for simultaneous implant placement with good primary stability.ResultsThe follow-ups at 1, 3, and 6 weeks and 4, 8, and 10 months revealed good bone preservation with an osseointegrated implant.ConclusionsEmployment of digital planning to create a palatal window allowed excellent accuracy in removing the retained root while maintaining the bony foundation for a well osseointegrated dental implant.Key points Pre-planning using cone beam computed tomography scan merged with an intraoral digital scan is necessary for precise location of a retained root and correct implant placement with excellent primary stability. A digitally planned 3D surgical guide is a useful method for extracting retained roots during implant placement to minimize bone damage. Digital planning provides a precise and minimally invasive implant surgery.