← All explanationsDental implant

Which part of a replacement tooth is the implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root anchored in the jawbone. A restoration, such as a crown, can be attached to it. The implant and visible crown are different components. Suitability and treatment are planned individually after an examination.

For dental trainees & teams
SMILE meets DESIGN
Medical teaching illustration: The root is replacedAI-generated
Educational model: implant with abutment and crown
01 / 03

The root is replaced

The implant sits in the jawbone in place of a missing tooth root. It provides an anchor for the later restoration.

02 / 03

Several parts form the replacement tooth

In a typical single-tooth restoration, an abutment supports the visible crown. Implant, abutment and crown serve different purposes.

03 / 03

Implants need care too

An implant cannot develop tooth decay. The surrounding tissues can, however, become inflamed. Careful cleaning and regular checks remain important.

At a glance

Which part of the tooth does it replace?

The implant takes over the anchoring role of a missing tooth root within the bone. The visible crown fitted later is a separate part of the restoration.

Which conditions are assessed?

Bone, surrounding tissue and general health are part of the assessment. The conditions for an implant-supported restoration are not the same for every gap.

Which steps are involved?

Planning is followed by implant placement, often a healing period, and fitting the restoration. The tissues around the implant need ongoing care and regular checks.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. Straight to the point.
Explanations are also shown on screen.

Short film (German): Which part of a replacement tooth is the implant?

Silent film in German · English explanations in the three views above

Often confused

Implant or crown?

The implant lies mainly within bone and replaces the root. The crown is the visible part of the restoration. Not every crown is supported by an implant.

Quick answers
Is an implant suitable for every missing tooth?

Not automatically. Bone, surrounding tissues, general health and other factors are assessed before a decision is made.

Is the crown always fitted to the implant immediately?

No. A healing period is often needed first. Earlier restoration is only possible when suitable conditions are met.

Can an implant replace several teeth?

Implants can also support bridges or removable dentures. Their number and positioning are planned for the particular restoration.

At the practice

For your consultation

A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:

What is the condition of the bone and gums, and how should the eventual restoration fit into my bite?

Treatment planning at Dr. Barahmand Pour's practice considers the dental starting point and personal preferences together.

If you have a missing tooth, we can discuss the conditions and possible restoration options together.

Discuss your missing toothChoose an appointment on Doctolib
Meet Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour
Learning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge

Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.

Implant body
The artificial tooth root anchored in the jawbone.
Abutment
The connecting component between the implant body and the restoration attached to it in a multi-part system.
Superstructure
The restoration attached to implants, such as a crown, bridge or denture.

Know the difference

The implant body and visible restoration are different parts. Designs vary; not every restoration requires the same components.

Knowledge questionWhich part of an implant restoration takes the role of the tooth root?

This question supports learning. It does not assess personal symptoms.

  1. The visible dental crown.
  2. The implant body anchored in bone.
  3. The abutment between the implant body and crown.
Show answer and explanation

The implant body anchored in bone.

The implant body provides the anchor. The restoration attached to it provides the visible shape and the intended function.

Sources for further learning
Sources and context

Editorial research: 22 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.