Implant restorations have come a long way. Today, screw retained implant crowns are one of the most reliable and retrievable options available for dental practices. They offer a clean, cement-free solution that many clinicians prefer for both anterior and posterior cases. Moreover, they pair exceptionally well with modern digital workflows.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screw retained implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our lab team works with dentists across the country, including practices in Los Altos Hills, CA, to deliver precise, high-quality implant restorations. Additionally, our digital workflow helps streamline the process from scan to delivery.
In this post, we break down what screw retained implant crowns are, why they matter, and how partnering with a digital dental lab can elevate your implant cases.
What Are Screw Retained Implant Crowns?
A screw retained implant crown attaches directly to the implant fixture using a screw. There is no cement involved. Because of this, the crown can be removed and reseated if needed. This retrievability is a major clinical advantage.
In contrast, cement retained crowns rely on dental cement to bond the crown to an abutment. However, excess cement can be difficult to remove. It can also lead to peri-implant complications over time. As a result, many clinicians are shifting toward screw retained designs.
Key Components of a Screw Retained Crown
Screw retained implant crowns typically consist of a custom titanium or zirconia abutment fused to the crown. The screw channel runs through the occlusal or lingual surface. Therefore, the restoration seats directly onto the implant platform without relying on cement.
Modern labs like Dentek Digital fabricate these as monolithic or layered zirconia restorations. Furthermore, we can design them to match your implant system precisely using digital files and CAD/CAM milling technology.
Why Dental Practices Prefer Screw Retained Designs
Retrievability is the top reason clinicians choose screw retained implant crowns. If a patient experiences a complication, the crown can be removed without damage. This makes follow-up care much simpler. Additionally, it protects the patient’s long-term investment.
Another benefit is eliminating the risk of cement-related tissue inflammation. Peri-implantitis is a serious concern in implant dentistry. Therefore, removing cement from the equation reduces one significant risk factor for your patients.
Benefits at a Glance
- Retrievable: The crown can be removed and reseated without damage.
- No cement risk: Eliminates the chance of subgingival cement remnants.
- Precise fit: CAD/CAM fabrication ensures accurate margins and seating.
- Esthetic options: Zirconia and layered materials deliver natural-looking results.
- Implant system compatibility: Most major implant platforms are supported.
Finally, screw retained designs tend to simplify the restorative appointment. There is no waiting for cement to set. Moreover, the seating process is clean and straightforward for the clinician.
The CAD/CAM Advantage for Implant Crowns
Digital technology has transformed how dental labs fabricate implant restorations. At Dentek Digital, we use CAD/CAM workflows to design and mill screw retained implant crowns with exceptional accuracy. Because of this, your restorations seat predictably and require minimal adjustment chairside.
Our process begins with a digital scan or STL file from your practice. Next, our technicians design the restoration using advanced software. Then, we mill the crown from high-quality zirconia or other materials. The result is a precise, well-fitting restoration ready for delivery.
How the Digital Workflow Benefits Your Practice
A fully digital workflow reduces the margin for human error. Traditional analog methods involve multiple manual steps. In contrast, digital design captures exact implant position and occlusal relationships. Therefore, fit and function are more predictable from the start.
Additionally, digital files are easy to store and reference for future cases. If a patient needs a replacement restoration, we can often reuse or reference the original design. This saves time for both your team and ours.
Practices in areas like Los Altos Hills, CA, benefit from working with a lab that has mastered the digital implant workflow. However, you do not need to be local to our Phoenix, Arizona lab to experience our services. We work with dental practices nationwide, delivering restorations efficiently through our streamlined submission process.
Implant System Compatibility and Accuracy
One of the most common questions we receive involves implant system compatibility. Screw retained crowns must be designed to match the specific implant platform your patient has. Therefore, accurate documentation is essential when submitting your case.
At Dentek Digital, we support most major implant systems. Our technicians are experienced with a wide range of platforms and connection types. Furthermore, our CAD/CAM software libraries include detailed implant data to ensure precise fit at the abutment level.
What to Include When Submitting an Implant Case
- Digital scan or STL files of the implant site
- Implant system name, platform size, and connection type
- Shade selection and material preference
- Occlusal clearance and bite registration information
- Any special notes on emergence profile or tissue contour
Providing complete case information upfront helps our team fabricate an accurate restoration the first time. As a result, your turnaround is faster and your patient experience is smoother.
Serving Dental Practices Beyond Phoenix
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona, and serves dental practices across the country. Our team supports clinicians in communities throughout the Greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Chandler. However, our reach extends well beyond Arizona.
We regularly partner with practices from states across the country, including California. Dental offices in Los Altos Hills and surrounding communities trust us for high-quality digital restorations. Because of this, we have built a reputation as a national leader in digital dentistry.
Our ability to receive digital files remotely makes the distance a non-issue. You submit your scan, we design and fabricate your restoration, and we ship it directly to your practice. Furthermore, our communication throughout the process is clear and responsive.
Why Dentists Choose Dentek Digital
We were among the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the country. This means we have years of experience refining our process. Additionally, we combine advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship in every case we handle.
Our solutions include fixed restorations, removables, splints and nightguards, and dental implants. We also offer advanced services like TattooTH and digital implant planning. Therefore, we can support a wide range of clinical needs from a single trusted lab partner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screw Retained Implant Crowns
Are screw retained implant crowns better than cement retained crowns?
Many clinicians prefer screw retained designs because they are retrievable and eliminate cement-related risks. However, the best choice depends on the implant position, angulation, and patient-specific factors. Your clinical judgment guides that decision.
What materials are used for screw retained crowns?
Monolithic zirconia is the most common material for screw retained implant crowns today. Additionally, layered zirconia or other high-strength ceramics may be used depending on esthetic and functional needs. We work with you to select the right material for each case.
How do I submit a screw retained implant case to Dentek Digital?
You can submit your case digitally using STL files from your intraoral scanner. Include implant system details, shade, and any clinical notes. Our team reviews the case and reaches out if we have questions before fabrication begins.
How long does fabrication take?
Turnaround times vary based on case complexity and material selection. However, our digital workflow is designed to be efficient. We communicate estimated timelines clearly so you can plan your patient appointments accordingly.
Can Dentek Digital work with my implant system?
We support most major implant systems and platforms. If you have a question about compatibility, contact our team before submitting. We are happy to confirm compatibility and guide you through the submission process.
Partner With Dentek Digital for Your Implant Cases
Screw retained implant crowns represent one of the most clinically sound and patient-friendly restoration options in implant dentistry today. Furthermore, when fabricated with precision CAD/CAM technology, they deliver outstanding fit and function case after case.
At Dentek Digital, we bring together advanced digital tools and experienced lab technicians to support your practice. Whether you are in Los Altos Hills, CA, or anywhere across the country, we are ready to be your trusted lab partner. Additionally, our team is here to answer your questions and help you navigate each case with confidence.
Ready to elevate your implant restorations? Contact Dentek Digital today to send us a case or explore how our digital implant workflow can support your practice.