Epithelial attachment refers to the mechanism of attachment of the junctional epithelium to a tooth or dental implant, i.e., hemidesmosomes. The cells of the epithelium at this attachment point are non-keratinized and form a collar around the tooth around the cemento-enamel junction. The cells themselves are formed from reduced enamel epithelium. Issues regarding epithelial attachment may arise in the case of injury or disease to the tooth or surrounding tissues. Depending on the severity of the injury or disease, epithelial attachment will begin to develop again within three days with more substantial healing noticeable after seven days. Epithelial attachment is also important in implant dentistry as the implant is placed where the site of epithelial attachment takes place. Hemidesmosomal epithelium creates a barrier that aids in tissue healing around the implant. With proper oral care, it can also assist with the long-term success of the implant by preventing bacteria from destroying the surrounding tissues.