Dental implant restorations have changed dramatically over the past decade. Today, screw retained implant crowns represent one of the most reliable and clinician-friendly options available. They offer retrieval, precision, and long-term stability that cement-retained alternatives often cannot match.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screw retained implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our digital workflow delivers consistent, precise results for dental practices across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, and beyond. We partner with dentists who demand the best for their patients.
If your practice in Southlake, TX is searching for a digital dental lab that can deliver high-quality implant restorations, this guide is for you. We cover what screw retained implant crowns are, why they matter, and how Dentek Digital supports your success.
What Are Screw-Retained Implant Crowns?
A screw retained implant crown is a dental restoration fixed directly to an implant fixture using a screw. There is no cement involved in securing the crown to the implant. Instead, the crown is accessed and tightened through a small access hole on the occlusal or lingual surface.
This design makes the restoration fully retrievable. Therefore, if the crown ever needs adjustment, repair, or replacement, the clinician can simply remove the screw and access the restoration without destructive removal. This is a significant clinical advantage over cemented options.
How They Differ from Cement-Retained Crowns
Cement-retained crowns use dental cement to bond the restoration to an abutment. However, excess cement below the gumline is a well-documented concern. It can lead to peri-implant inflammation and long-term complications.
Screw retained designs eliminate that risk entirely. Additionally, they allow for easier long-term maintenance. For clinicians focused on predictable outcomes, screw retained implant crowns are often the preferred choice.
When Screw Retention Is the Right Choice
Not every case is ideal for screw retention. However, many situations strongly favor this approach. Consider screw retention when:
- The implant angulation allows for acceptable screw access
- The patient has limited bone volume, making retrievability critical
- The restoration is in a high-load area like the posterior arch
- Long-term maintenance and retrieval are clinical priorities
- The restorative space is limited and cement management is a concern
Furthermore, screw retained options pair well with digital workflows. CAD/CAM design software allows lab technicians to precisely plan the access channel location before fabrication even begins.
The CAD/CAM Advantage in Implant Crown Fabrication
Digital technology has transformed how implant crowns are designed and fabricated. At Dentek Digital, we were among the earliest adopters of full digital CAD/CAM workflows in the country. Because of this, we have refined our process over many years of hands-on experience.
Our workflow begins with a digital scan or file submitted by your practice. We then design the crown using sophisticated CAD software. Next, we mill or print the restoration from high-quality materials. Finally, we finish and deliver a precise, patient-ready crown.
Materials We Use for Screw-Retained Restorations
Material selection matters greatly in implant crown fabrication. We work with a range of proven, high-performance materials. These include:
- Full-contour zirconia — highly durable and ideal for posterior cases
- Layered zirconia — combines strength with superior esthetics
- PFM (porcelain-fused-to-metal) — a proven option for specific clinical needs
- High-strength ceramic — excellent for esthetic-focused anterior cases
Moreover, the material choice depends on the implant position, esthetic demands, and occlusal loading. Our team can help you select the right material for each unique case.
Precision Fit Starts with a Clean Digital Impression
The quality of your digital scan directly affects restoration fit. Therefore, we encourage all referring practices to use a verified intraoral scanner and follow best practices for implant scanning. We accept files from all major scanner platforms.
In addition, we work with scan bodies and implant library files from the most commonly used implant systems. If you have questions about compatibility, our team is ready to help you confirm before you send a case.
Why Dental Practices Choose Dentek Digital
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona, and we serve dental practices nationally. Our location in the heart of the Valley of the Sun gives us a regional identity rooted in innovation. We serve practices across Tempe, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and Mesa, and we extend that same level of service to practices beyond Arizona.
We are recognized as a national leader in digital dentistry. However, our approach is never impersonal. We treat every case as a collaboration between our lab and your practice. Your clinical goals shape how we fabricate every restoration.
Our Digital Implant Planning Service
In addition to crown fabrication, we offer digital implant planning services. This allows your team to plan implant placement virtually before surgery. As a result, restorative and surgical phases align more predictably.
When implants are placed with the restoration in mind, screw access channels end up in ideal positions. This makes screw retained implant crowns far more achievable in a wider range of cases. Planning ahead reduces complications and improves overall outcomes.
TattooTH and Advanced Lab Services
Dentek Digital also offers TattooTH, an advanced service that adds custom characterization and natural-looking surface detail to restorations. This is especially valuable in esthetic zones where blending with natural dentition is critical.
Furthermore, our full suite of services includes fixed restorations, removables, splints, nightguards, and full-arch implant solutions. We are a comprehensive digital lab partner for practices of all sizes.
How to Work with Dentek Digital from Southlake, TX
Working with a digital lab outside your immediate area is simple when the workflow is fully digital. You capture a scan, submit your case files, and we handle the rest. We ship finished restorations directly to your practice with careful packaging and reliable turnaround.
Our case submission process is streamlined and easy to follow. Additionally, our team is available to answer questions throughout the process. We communicate proactively if we have design questions or need clarification before fabrication.
What to Include When You Send a Case
A complete case submission helps us deliver the best possible result. When you send a screw retained implant crown case, include:
- A full intraoral or model scan with the implant scan body in place
- The implant system name, platform size, and connection type
- Opposing arch scan and bite registration
- Shade information or a shade photo under natural lighting
- Any notes about esthetic goals, material preferences, or access channel location
On the other hand, if you are unsure about any of these details, reach out before submitting. We would rather clarify upfront than make assumptions that affect the final result.
Turnaround and Communication
We understand that your schedule depends on reliable lab turnaround. Therefore, we work efficiently and communicate clearly about timelines. Our digital workflow reduces manual steps, which helps us deliver restorations faster without sacrificing quality.
Meanwhile, we are always available to discuss rush cases or complex situations that require additional planning. We see ourselves as an extension of your clinical team, not just a vendor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screw-Retained Implant Crowns
Are screw retained implant crowns suitable for anterior teeth?
Yes, in many cases they are. However, the implant angulation must allow for an esthetically acceptable access hole location. Digital planning helps ensure the screw channel does not compromise the facial surface. Our team can review your case and advise on feasibility.
What implant systems does Dentek Digital support?
We work with a wide range of implant systems and maintain an extensive digital library. Therefore, we can design restorations for most major platforms. If you are unsure whether your system is supported, contact us before submitting and we will confirm compatibility quickly.
How does a screw retained crown handle occlusal loading?
Screw retained crowns can handle significant occlusal forces, especially when fabricated from high-strength zirconia. Additionally, proper occlusal adjustment at delivery is essential. We design our restorations with occlusion in mind, but final adjustments are always made chairside.
What if the access hole affects the esthetics of the crown?
The access hole is typically sealed with composite after placement. In posterior cases, this is rarely a concern. For anterior cases, our design team can optimize the channel location to minimize esthetic impact. Furthermore, layered zirconia or ceramic materials can help maintain a natural appearance.
Can I switch from cement-retained to screw-retained restorations?
In many cases, yes. The transition depends on your existing implant positions and angulations. If new implants are being placed, digital planning can help position them for screw retention from the start. We are happy to consult with your practice on making this transition smoothly.
Partner with Dentek Digital for Your Implant Crown Cases
Screw retained implant crowns are one of the most reliable restorative solutions in modern dentistry. They offer retrievability, cleanliness, and long-term stability that benefit both clinicians and patients. When paired with a precise digital workflow, the results are consistently excellent.
Dentek Digital brings together advanced CAD/CAM technology, skilled craftsmanship, and deep implant expertise. We serve dental practices in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and across the country. Our national reach means practices in Southlake, TX can access the same high-quality lab services as our local partners.
Ready to elevate your implant cases? Contact Dentek Digital today to send us your next case or to request a consultation with our team. We look forward to supporting your practice and your patients.