What is guided implant surgery?

How a 3D-printed guide carries the digital plan into the surgery, and when it is used.

Dr Bill Kalis — Saturday 14 November 2026

Guided implant surgery uses a custom-made guide that fits over your teeth or gums and directs the implant into the position planned on your 3D scan. It links the digital plan to the surgery itself.

I am Dr Bill Kalis, principal dentist at Padstow Dental in Padstow, Sydney, and a past State and Federal President of the Australian Society of Implant Dentistry. I plan every implant in 3D and use a guide where it helps.

How is the guide made?

1. A 3D X-ray (CBCT) shows your bone, nerves and sinuses.

2. A digital scan records the surfaces of your teeth and gums.

3. The two are combined in Blue Sky Plan software.

4. I plan the implant position on screen, starting from where the final tooth needs to be.

5. A guide is designed from that plan and made for your mouth.

Both scans are done on site at our practice.

What happens on the day?

The guide is fitted over your teeth and checked. It has a sleeve that directs the position, angle and depth of the implant. The area is fully numbed before we begin, and IV sedation is available.

What are the advantages?

• The implant is placed according to a plan you have already seen

• The position relates to the final tooth, not only to the bone

• Nearby nerves, sinuses and tooth roots are mapped in advance

• In suitable cases the surgery can involve a smaller opening in the gum

Is guided surgery always used?

No. A guide helps most where space is tight, where several implants need to line up, or where the position of the final tooth is critical. In other cases a conventional approach is appropriate. I explain which approach I recommend for you and why.

Does a guide make the surgery risk-free?

No. A guide is a planning aid. It does not replace surgical judgement, and implant treatment still involves surgery, healing and ongoing maintenance. Outcomes vary between patients.

What does it cost?

Planning starts with an assessment ($245) and a 3D scan ($175). A single implant with its crown is about $6,000. Fees are a guide only. Treatment costs are confirmed after your consultation.

Common questions about guided implant surgery

Can I see the plan before surgery?

Yes. We show you the planned implant position on screen.

Does guided surgery take longer?

The planning takes more time beforehand. The surgery itself is often shorter.

Is it suitable if I have had bone loss?

It can be. Your 3D scan shows what is possible. Read about implants when you have been told you lack bone.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book with us directly.

Considering a dental implant?

Call 02 9773 4775, or read about dental implants at Padstow Dental and what happens before an implant is placed.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Written by Dr Bill Kalis, Principal Dentist at Padstow Dental. BDS (Hons), University of Sydney, 1994. Graduate Certificate in Clinical Dentistry, University of Adelaide, 2007. Past State and Federal President of the Australian Society of Implant Dentistry. Dr Kalis is a general dentist with a focus on implant, surgical and IV sedation dentistry.