A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that acts as a replacement for a natural tooth root. Your jawbone joins with the implant to provide a stable foundation for a prosthetic tooth (prosthesis). And the metal element that serves as a base for the crown is known as an “abutment.” Abutments are the parts that connect the prosthesis to the implants. It works as a connector, with one end hooked onto your jawbone and the other to the crown.

What is an implant?
A dental implant is a metal attachment or fixture used in place of a natural tooth and is surgically inserted beneath the teeth by a dentist. These metal implants become attached to your bone through osseointegration and provide support to the abutment and crown, just like your natural teeth. After surgery, the recovery could take up to 6–12 weeks.

What is an abutment?
An abutment is a metal connector that is put inside the dental cavity during surgery. Titanium is the most commonly used material for abutment. Others include gold, zirconia, and stainless steel. The abutment screws into the implant and holds your crown (or fake tooth) in place. Abutments are either placed with the implant during the initial surgery or the follow-up surgery. The dentist will advise you on the best material to use, the procedure to follow, and whether or not an abutment is required.

Before the implant abutment is placed, the original implant is exposed through a small incision. After impressions are taken and the gums are healed, the abutment will be secured either temporarily or permanently.

Protecting your implants is very similar to keeping your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day, and schedule regular dental appointments to assess the condition of your implant.