← All explanationsImplant fracture

Which part of a dental implant can fracture?

An implant-body fracture is a break in the component anchored in bone. It differs from a broken screw, abutment or crown. Feeling movement in an implant restoration does not identify which component is affected.

For training & practice ↓
SMILE meets DESIGN
Fictional sectional illustration of an implant restoration with a crown, abutment and fastening screw. A small fracture line is shown as an example in the middle part of the implant body.AI-generated
Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.
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Distinguish the components

The implant body sits in bone. The abutment and restoration sit above it, often joined by screws. A fracture in one of these parts is not automatically an implant-body fracture.

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Investigate the cause

Components, loading, the bite and surrounding tissues are assessed. Radiographs may help answer specific clinical questions. A model cannot replace this examination.

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Plan the appropriate repair

Repairable screw or crown problems are managed differently from an implant-body fracture. Whether parts can be replaced or the implant needs removal depends on the findings.

Read the full explanation
  1. Distinguish the components

    The implant body sits in bone. The abutment and restoration sit above it, often joined by screws. A fracture in one of these parts is not automatically an implant-body fracture.

  2. Investigate the cause

    Components, loading, the bite and surrounding tissues are assessed. Radiographs may help answer specific clinical questions. A model cannot replace this examination.

  3. Plan the appropriate repair

    Repairable screw or crown problems are managed differently from an implant-body fracture. Whether parts can be replaced or the implant needs removal depends on the findings.

Notes on the teaching images
  • Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.

At a glance

Which part does the term mean?

Strictly, the implant body in bone.

What needs assessment?

Fracture location, component condition and restoration loading.

How is treatment selected?

Examination guides repair, component replacement or, where needed, removal.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.

Implant fracture: short film

Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.

Often confused

Implant-body or screw fracture?

An implant-body fracture affects the component anchored in the jaw. A screw fracture affects a connecting part. Both can compromise the restoration but require different planning.

Quick answers
Does a loose implant crown mean the implant is broken?

Not necessarily. A loose screw or connection can also cause movement. The affected component needs to be identified.

Can an implant always be repaired?

No. Options depend on the fracture location, implant system and remaining components. A fractured implant body differs from a replaceable screw.

Can I keep chewing on a loose restoration?

Arrange prompt assessment and avoid additional loading of the affected area meanwhile. Do not tighten or glue it yourself. Pain or swelling makes prompt assessment particularly important.

At the practice

For the appointment

You can bring this question to your appointment:

Is the implant body damaged, or is a replaceable connecting component affected?

An examination can clarify the finding and any need for referral.

Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at Doctolib
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Implant body
The component anchored in jawbone.
Material fatigue
Damage associated with repeated loading; a possible technical factor, not a diagnosis from an illustration.

Make the distinction

An implant-body fracture affects the component anchored in the jaw. A screw fracture affects a connecting part. Both can compromise the restoration but require different planning.

Knowledge questionDoes a loose crown automatically mean implant fracture?

For learning, not for assessing personal symptoms. Your answer is not stored or sent.

  1. No, each connection and component needs assessment.
  2. Yes, any movement proves a fracture within bone.
  3. No, an examination is never needed.
View answer

No, each connection and component needs assessment.

Movement alone does not identify the damaged component.

Sources and context

Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.