IMPLANT CROWNS, EXPLAINED SIMPLY
What is the difference between an implant crown, an abutment, a Ti-base and a screw? Here is how the pieces fit together—and what you actually need to order.
1. Start with three basic parts
The fixture placed surgically in the jawbone. It serves as the foundation.
The connector between the implant and the visible tooth. Its shape depends on the restorative design.
The visible artificial tooth, often made from zirconia or lithium disilicate (e.max).
Easy way to remember: implant = foundation; abutment = connector; crown = visible tooth.
2. Two ways to retain an implant crown
Cement-Retained
The crown is cemented onto an abutment, much like a crown on a prepared natural tooth.
The abutment may be an existing stock abutment or a custom-made abutment.
Screw-Retained
The restoration is secured using a screw. A small access channel is sealed after placement.
Depending on the system and design, the crown may be bonded to a Ti-base. Not every screw-retained crown uses the same components.
3. Ti-base vs custom titanium abutment
Ti-Base
A small prefabricated titanium bonding base. A digitally designed crown can be bonded to it, commonly in a screw-retained workflow.
Custom Titanium Abutment
An individually designed and milled titanium connector, often used to support a cement-retained crown. It is a separate manufactured component.
4. What does the doctor actually order?
| Situation | Typical lab order |
|---|---|
| The abutment is already in place | Implant Crown Only — confirm abutment geometry and records |
| A complete cement-retained restoration is needed | Custom Abutment + Crown |
| A complete screw-retained restoration is needed | Crown + compatible connection + screw (components vary by implant system) |
5. Why the prices can be very different
A price for crown only is not directly comparable to a price for a complete screw-retained restoration. The latter may include the connection and screw. Confirm the exact included parts before comparing quotes.
Before submitting a case: identify the implant manufacturer, platform, implant position, preferred retention method, existing abutment (if any), restorative material and compatible screw/connection. Final component selection is case-specific and should be confirmed by the treating clinician and laboratory.
One simple question to start
Do you already have the abutment, or do you need a complete restoration? That answer helps determine which components the lab should quote.
SEND AN IMPLANT CASERelated reading: Full-Arch Implant Lab Checklist · More Learning Center Guides