Definition

Noun: A permanent, artificial tooth root, typically made of titanium, that is surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth (crown), bridge, or denture.

Usage

A "dental implant" is a medical device used in dentistry. It functions as an anchor for a prosthetic tooth. The term is used to describe the implanted fixture itself, not the visible crown attached to it. - Example: After losing a tooth in an accident, she opted for a dental implant. - Example: The success rate for a single dental implant is very high with proper care.

Advanced Usage

• "to place a dental implant": Refers to the surgical procedure of inserting the implant into the jawbone.
  • The oral surgeon will place the dental implant next month.
• "dental implant surgery": The specific surgical procedure involved.
  • He recovered quickly from his dental implant surgery.

Variants and Related Words

• Implant dentistry: The field of dentistry focused on implants.
• Implant-supported crown/bridge/denture: Describes the type of prosthesis attached to the implant(s).

Synonyms

• Tooth implant (less common but synonymous in general use).
• Endosseous implant (technical term, specifying it is placed the bone).

Related Phrases

• "get a dental implant": To undergo the procedure to receive one.
  • He decided to get a dental implant instead of a bridge.
• "dental implant procedure": Another way to refer to the surgery and overall treatment process.

Noun

1. an implant that replaces a natural tooth