Glossary

Dental Implants Glossary

Common dental implant terms — from endosteal implants, abutments, and osseointegration to All-on-4, guided surgery, and implant-supported restorations.

Endosteal Implants

Implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone. This is the most common type.

Subperiosteal Implants

Implants that are placed on top of the jawbone but beneath the gum tissue. These are less common and used when there is not enough bone height for endosteal implants.

Zygomatic Implants

Implants that are placed in the cheekbone (zygoma) when there is not enough bone in the upper jaw. This is a more complex procedure.

Abutment

A connector piece that attaches the implant to the artificial tooth (crown, bridge, or denture).

Crown

The artificial tooth that is attached to the abutment.

Implant Fixture

The titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone.

All-on-4

A technique that uses four implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth.

All-on-6

Similar to All-on-4, but uses six implants for increased support and stability, especially in cases with less bone density.

All-on-X

A general term for full-arch implant restorations that use a variable number of implants (usually 4 or more) depending on individual needs.

Bone Grafting

A procedure to add bone to the jaw when there is not enough bone to support an implant.

Flapless Surgery

A minimally invasive implant placement technique that involves making a small incision in the gums.

Guided Implant Surgery

Using 3D imaging and computer technology to plan and place implants with greater precision.

Immediate Load Implants

Implants that can support a temporary tooth replacement on the same day they are placed.

Osseointegration

The process by which the implant fuses with the jawbone.

Implant-Supported Bridge

Several implants are used to support a fixed bridge of replacement teeth.

Implant-Retained Overdenture

A removable denture that snaps onto implants for increased stability and retention.

Multi-tooth Implants

Replacing multiple missing teeth with individual implants or an implant-supported bridge.

Biocompatibility

The ability of a material to function in the body without causing harm.

Crown Lengthening

A surgical procedure to expose more of the tooth structure for implant placement.

Sinus Lift

A procedure to add bone to the upper jaw in the sinus area.

Titanium

A strong, lightweight metal that is biocompatible and commonly used for dental implants.