What is a tooth-supported surgical guide, and when should I use one?
A tooth-supported surgical guide is a 3D-printed surgical template that rests directly on a patient's existing teeth to direct implant osteotomy and placement. At ROE, this is our most frequently requested and clinically versatile guide option. It is designed primarily for single implant placement or partially edentulous patients, where reliable anatomical landmarks help ensure optimal outcomes.
The guide uses your patient's existing teeth as easily reproducible landmarks. Because teeth are rigid and provide stable reference points, this support type delivers superior support, stability, and retention, which translates into the improved accuracy and precision that both benchtop and clinical studies have consistently demonstrated.
ROE commonly fabricates tooth-supported guides for single or multiple implants in fixed restoration cases. Their adaptability across a wide range of clinical situations makes them an ideal choice when you are aiming for predictable restorative outcomes.
Ideal use cases at a glance:
| Factor | Tooth-Supported Guide |
|---|---|
| Best for | Single implants and partially edentulous patients |
| Number of sites | 1 to 6 |
| Support source | Patient's existing teeth |
| Typical application | Single or multiple implants in fixed restoration cases |
| Key advantage | High accuracy from rigid, reproducible tooth landmarks |
If your patient is fully edentulous or your case calls for a different support strategy, ROE also offers tissue-supported, bone-supported, CombiGuide, and CHROME GuidedSMILE options. See FAQ 6 for a full comparison.
To discuss your specific case, request pricing or send a case.
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Contact Information
For immediate chairside support or troubleshooting assistance, contact ROE Dental Laboratory:
- Phone: (216) 663-2233
- Email: info@roedentallab.com