Short answer: A dental implant usually consists of three main parts: the implant body placed in the jawbone, the abutment (connecting part) that links the body to the inside of the mouth, and the crown, which is the visible tooth. In most cases a small prosthetic screw holds these parts together. While the implant body can stay in place for a long time, the upper parts can be renewed when needed.
1. Implant body
The implant body is the screw-shaped part that takes the place of the lost tooth’s root. It is mostly made of titanium or a titanium alloy, and in some cases of zirconia. After it is placed in the bone, it fuses with the bone over a few months; this process is called osseointegration. The diameter and length of the body are chosen according to the amount of bone, the position of the tooth and the planning.
2. Cover screw and healing cap
After the implant is placed, its top can be closed with a cover screw while it fuses with the bone, or a healing cap can be fitted to shape the gum. The healing cap helps a natural-looking gum margin form around the permanent tooth.
3. Abutment (connecting part)
The abutment is the intermediate part that is mounted on the implant body and carries the crown. There are different types:
- Stock abutments: Made in standard sizes; small adjustments are made if needed.
- Custom abutments: Prepared with digital scanning and computer-aided design to match the shape of the gum and the position of the tooth.
- Angled abutments: Compensate for the difference between the angle of the implant and the direction the tooth should face.
- Ceramic on a titanium base: In aesthetic areas, a tooth-coloured upper structure can be bonded onto a titanium base.
The part where the abutment seats on the implant body is called the connection. There are different designs, such as conical or internal hexagonal connections, and each system works with parts suited to its own connection type. That is why, if parts need replacing in the future, it is important to know which system the implant belongs to; for details, see our article implant card and implant information.
4. Prosthetic screw
This is the small screw that fixes the abutment to the implant body. It is tightened to a specific force. Over time it may loosen, particularly in people who clench their teeth or put heavy chewing loads on them; in that case a slight movement may be felt in the tooth. In most cases a loose screw can be retightened or replaced by the dentist.
5. Crown, bridge or denture
The part visible in the mouth is the crown mounted on the abutment. Where several teeth are missing a bridge can be used, and where all teeth are missing implant-supported dentures can be used. Crowns are mostly made of materials such as zirconia or ceramic; you can find information on caring for zirconia in our article zirconia crown lifespan and care. If you are curious about full-arch options, take a look at our article what is all-on-four.
Screw-retained or cemented?
- Screw-retained crown: The crown is fixed with a screw through a small hole on top; the hole is then closed with a tooth-coloured material. Because it can be removed and refitted when needed, maintenance and repairs are easier.
- Cemented crown: The crown is attached to the abutment with a special cement. There is no screw hole, which is an aesthetic advantage; however, careful application is needed so that no excess cement is left under the gum.
Which method is chosen is decided by assessing the implant’s position and angle, aesthetic expectations and ease of maintenance together.
Original and compatible parts
Parts such as abutments and screws can be produced by the company that makes the implant or by other manufacturers so as to be compatible with other systems. Which part will be used is decided by the dentist and the dental laboratory, taking into account the system’s connection type and the type of prosthesis. In every case, the parts used must be registered products and their compatibility with the implant must be verified. We explain the criteria for choosing a system in our article how to choose a dental implant brand.
Lifespan and care of the parts
- With healthy bone and gums, the implant body can stay in place for a long time.
- The screw, abutment and crown may be renewed over the years due to wear, breakage or aesthetic reasons.
- If the area around the implant is not cleaned regularly, gum inflammation can develop. For care at home, see our implant cleaning guide.
- If you clench your teeth, wearing a night guard can help reduce the load on the parts.
When should you see your dentist?
If you notice movement or a clicking sound in the tooth on your implant, pain when chewing, bleeding gums, swelling or discharge, see your dentist without waiting. Problems such as a loose screw that are noticed early can be resolved easily in most cases.
Frequently asked questions
Is an implant a single piece?
Most implant systems consist of more than one part. One-piece designs also exist; your dentist decides which design is suitable.
If the abutment breaks, is the implant removed?
In most cases, no. Even if the abutment or screw breaks, only the upper parts may need renewing if the implant body is sound.
Does the implant have to be removed to replace the crown?
Usually not. Screw-retained crowns can be unscrewed, and cemented crowns removed using suitable methods, so that they can be renewed.
How can you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right option for you is determined through an examination and the dentist’s assessment. For appointments and directions, see our contact page.
