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Implant encyclopedia
Every term, clearly explained
A complete reference guide for patients: 57 words, procedures and concepts related to dental implants, written in plain English.
A
AbutmentThe connector piece that links the implant fixture to the crown.All-on-4Full arch restoration using just four strategically placed implants.AllograftBone grafting material sourced from human donor bone.AnaesthesiaHow pain is controlled during implant treatment.Anterior TeethThe front teeth — where aesthetics are most critical in implant treatment.AutograftBone grafting using your own bone, harvested from elsewhere in your body.
B
Bite (Occlusion)How your upper and lower teeth meet — critical to implant longevity.Bone DensityThe hardness and quality of jawbone — a key factor in implant success.Bone GraftRebuilding jawbone volume before or during implant placement.Bone ResorptionThe natural shrinkage of jawbone that occurs after tooth loss.BruxismThe habit of grinding or clenching teeth — a risk factor for implant complications.
C
CBCT ScanA 3D X-ray showing bone volume, density and key anatomy for precise implant planning.Ceramic ImplantA tooth-coloured implant made from zirconia rather than titanium.Conscious SedationA deeply relaxed state achieved with sedative medication — ideal for anxious patients.CrownThe visible tooth-shaped component of an implant — what looks like your new tooth.
D
DehiscenceWhen the gum wound opens during healing after implant surgery.Dental ImplantA titanium screw placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root.
E
Emergence ProfileThe shape of the restoration as it exits the gum — critical to natural aesthetics.ExtractionThe removal of a tooth — and what happens to the bone afterwards.
F
Flapless SurgeryImplant placement without making a full incision — a minimally invasive approach.Full Arch RestorationReplacing an entire arch of teeth with a fixed implant-supported bridge.
G
GBR (Guided Bone Regeneration)A technique using a membrane barrier to help bone grow where it is needed.Guided SurgeryDigitally planned implant placement using a 3D-printed surgical guide.Gum DiseaseBacterial infection of gum and bone — must be treated before implants.
H
Healing AbutmentA temporary component that shapes the gum after implant placement.HydroxyapatiteThe mineral component of natural bone — used in implant coatings and graft materials.
I
ISQ (Implant Stability Quotient)A measurement of how stable an implant is in bone.Immediate LoadingAttaching a temporary crown or bridge on the same day as implant placement.Implant FixtureThe titanium screw placed into the jawbone that replaces a tooth root.ImpressionRecording the position of implants or teeth to allow the laboratory to make your restoration.
L
M
MandibleThe lower jaw — where implant treatment is generally more straightforward.MaxillaThe upper jaw — anatomically more complex for implant treatment.MembraneA barrier used in bone regeneration procedures to protect graft sites.
N
Nerve (Inferior Alveolar)The main sensory nerve of the lower jaw — must be avoided during implant surgery.Night GuardA custom-made appliance worn at night to protect implants from grinding forces.
O
P
PapillaThe small triangular gum between teeth — difficult to restore after tooth loss.Peri-ImplantitisInfection and bone loss around an implant — the main cause of late implant failure.Periodontal LigamentThe shock-absorbing tissue connecting a natural tooth root to the bone — absent in implants.PlaqueThe bacterial film that accumulates on teeth and implants — the primary cause of gum disease and peri-implantitis.Primary StabilityHow firmly an implant is held in bone immediately after placement — before osseointegration.
R
S
SedationOptions for anxious patients to make implant treatment more comfortable.Sinus LiftBuilding bone in the upper back jaw where the sinus limits space for implants.SmokingThe single most significant lifestyle risk factor for implant complications and failure.Socket PreservationPlacing a bone graft at the time of extraction to prevent ridge shrinkage.Subperiosteal ImplantAn older type of implant placed on top of the bone rather than inside it.SuturesThe stitches used to close the gum after implant surgery.
T
Temporary CrownA short-term restoration worn while the implant heals or the permanent crown is made.TitaniumThe metal used for implant fixtures — uniquely biocompatible and capable of osseointegration.TorqueThe force measurement used during implant placement and when tightening screws.
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X
Z
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