ObjectiveTo evaluate the shape and texture of the alveolar bones before dental implantation using three-dimension reconstruction techniques by multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT).MethodsSeventeen patients, whose alveolar condition was not clear enough to receive dental implantation, were screened out using conventional dental periapical and panoramic X-ray examination.The occlusion cast was made and a radiological guide template with titanium tube was prepared in the implantation area.The mandibular and maxillary bone was scanned with MSCT.The height,width and density of the alveolar were measured through three-dimensional reconstruction,so as to determine whether the alveolar was suitable for dental implant surgery.Implantation using ITI dental implant system was performed in patients whose alveolar condition met the implantation criteria.ResultsPre-operation MSCT examination indicated that two cases were not suitable for the surgery due to a width of alveolar bone less than 5.3 mm and a height of the residual bone under the maxillary sinus less than 3 mm.Fifteen patients suitable for the surgery underwent successful implantation.ConclusionThe three-dimensional reconstruction of MSCT images of the jaws can provide more comprehensive and reliable information of the non-security areas and mandibular or maxillofacial alveolar bone defects before implantation.