Radiographic Study Helps Avoid Complications

The short article by Dr. O. Ross Beirne in the October 1995 issue was most interesting, particularly the cautionary tale evidenced from the fractured mandible in Figure 1.

My concern is that only panoramic radiographs were illustrated. One way to help avoid complications from dental implantology is to thoroughly plan the procedure with the help of an appropriate radiographic study that demonstrates the anatomical details in three dimensions; i.e., plain film tomography or reconstructed computed tomographs. This is particularly useful in determining the optimum positioning of implants for patients having atrophic jaws.

Allan G. Farman, President

International Association of

Dento Maxillo Facial Radiology

Louisville, KY