analog (implant)
Pronunciation: AN-ah-log
A replica component that mimics the shape and dimensions of a dental implant body, used in the dental laboratory to replicate the intraoral implant position within a master cast.
Full Definition
An implant analog (also spelled 'analogue' in British usage) is a precision-machined replica of the coronal portion of a dental implant that is embedded in the master working cast, allowing the laboratory to fabricate implant-supported prostheses with the same spatial relationship as the implant in the patient's mouth. Analogs are connected to impression copings or scan bodies and become permanently incorporated into the poured stone model. The specific implant system and platform connection type must be matched exactly, as analogs are not universally compatible between brands or implant diameters. Editors should note the spelling variation ('analog' in American usage, 'analogue' in British/Australian practice) and should apply the house style consistently throughout a document.
Usage
Usage note: Spelling varies by regional convention: 'analog' (US) vs 'analogue' (UK/AU). Ensure consistency with the document's house style. Do not confuse with impression coping, which is the intraoral pickup component.
In Context
- "The implant analog was secured to the open-tray coping before pouring the master cast." — Laboratory fabrication record
- "An incorrect analog platform size was identified as the cause of the misfit at the implant-abutment interface." — Case failure analysis report