What does “Implant fixture” mean?
An implant fixture is the implant body placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root.
Which part goes into the bone?
The fixture provides the foundation in bone for the prosthesis. It is often screw-shaped and is separate from the abutment above the gum and the visible crown. Fixture size and connection structure vary with the site and system.
Fixation immediately after placement and after healing
Immediately after surgery it is mechanically fixed in bone; surrounding bone then heals and osseointegration develops. Being firmly placed does not mean healing is complete. The timing of prosthesis connection depends on bone and soft-tissue condition and stability.
Why the moving component must be identified
If the visible tooth-like part moves, the problem may be a screw or prosthesis and must be distinguished from movement of the fixture itself. Do not repeatedly wiggle or tighten it yourself; have the dentist check connectors and bone support. Records of implant product and specifications help identify parts later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fixture and implant the same term?
It is often called an implant in everyday use, but precisely it means the body placed in bone within the overall treatment assembly.
If the prosthesis breaks, must the fixture also be replaced?
Not necessarily. If damage is limited to the prosthesis and the body and surrounding tissues are stable, repair or replacement of the prosthesis may be considered.
Questions about an implant fixture
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Is the problem in the implant body or prosthesis?
Explanation and evidenceCheck each component rather than concluding that osseointegration has failed from visible movement alone.
US Food and Drug Administration · Dental Implants: What You Should Know - A choice suited to your condition
What stage of healing has been reached?
Explanation and evidenceDistinguish primary stability from later osseointegration and determine prosthesis connection timing from examination findings.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals · Dental Implants
