Implant Length
The longitudinal measurement of the implant body from its apex to its platform, determining available anchorage within the bone.
Full Definition
Implant length is the second key dimensional parameter of a dental implant and is measured in millimetres from the apical tip to the coronal platform or shoulder. Longer implants engage more bone and generally provide greater primary stability, though anatomical structures such as the mandibular canal and maxillary sinus impose upper limits. Short implants (typically ≤8 mm) are a recognised category used in sites with reduced vertical bone height. In editorial contexts, length is almost always paired with diameter in specifications and must be checked for consistency between text, tables, and figures.
Usage
Usage note: Short implant definitions vary between publications (cut-offs of 6 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm are all used). Editors should flag if the study's own definition is not stated.
In Context
- "An implant length of 8 mm was selected to avoid encroachment on the inferior alveolar nerve." — Surgical plan
- "The meta-analysis compared survival rates of standard-length implants (>8 mm) with short implants (≤8 mm)." — Systematic review