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Glossary Definition of Dental Term - Dental Implant

By Tammy Davenport, About.com

Updated: June 7, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: A dental implant is a metal device designed to replace missing teeth. The device is usually made out of titanium and is surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Unlike a dental bridge, an implant is permanent.

A dental implant is designed to act as the tooth root and can anchor an artificial tooth or teeth such as a crown, bridge or denture.

Pronunciation: Den-tal Im-plant
Also Known As: Implants

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