IPTIC technique – Placing an Implant in the Presence of an Impacted Maxillary Canine

– Rationale and Technique Using a Computer Guiding Software

in a Two Stage Procedure

Dental implants have significantly transformed prosthodontic treatment strategies and are considered the first-line solution for replacing missing or non-restorable teeth. However, implant placement may be contraindicated in cases with anatomical limitations such as impacted teeth, root dilacerations, proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve, or insufficient bone volume.

Impacted maxillary canines can adversely affect the development and alignment of the anterior maxilla, often resulting in aesthetic and functional challenges. When orthodontic intervention is delayed or not feasible, treatment becomes complex, particularly in adult patients.

This presentation describes a two-stage, computer-guided surgical technique for implant placement through an impacted maxillary canine. Preoperative planning was performed using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and implant planning software. Two computer-generated surgical guides were utilized in separate surgical phases. In the first stage, a drill pathway wider than the planned implant diameter was created through the impacted canine, and the space was grafted with allogeneic bone material. After a four-month healing period, a second CBCT was obtained, and the implant was placed in the regenerated bone using a customized surgical guide, ensuring no contact with residual tooth structure.

This technique allows implant placement in anatomically challenging sites while preserving surrounding structures. Clinical cases and follow-up outcomes will be presented to demonstrate the rationale, surgical protocol, and clinical feasibility of this approach.

Professor Ami Smidt

Protsthodontist