When it comes to implant restorations, screw retained implant crowns have become a top choice for dental practices seeking predictable, retrievable solutions. They offer a clean, cement-free fit that many dentists prefer. As a result, demand for this restoration type continues to grow across modern implant practices.
Dentists in West University Place, TX looking for a reliable digital lab partner can benefit from working with a lab that truly specializes in implant-level precision. Dentek Digital, based in Phoenix, Arizona, is a national leader in digital dentistry and CAD/CAM fabrication. We deliver high-quality screw retained implant crowns to dental professionals across the country.
In this post, we cover everything you need to know about screw retained implant crowns — how they work, why they matter, and how a digital lab like ours can support your implant cases with confidence and consistency.
What Are Screw Retained Implant Crowns?
Screw retained implant crowns attach directly to the implant fixture using a screw. There is no cement involved. The screw passes through the crown and into the implant body, securing the restoration firmly in place.
This approach is different from cement-retained crowns. Cement-retained crowns use dental cement to bond the crown to an abutment. Screw retained designs eliminate the risk of excess cement remaining subgingivally. Because of this, many clinicians view screw retention as a safer long-term option.
Key Advantages of Screw Retention
First, screw retained crowns are fully retrievable. If adjustments or repairs are needed, the dentist can simply unscrew the restoration. This makes maintenance straightforward and predictable.
Additionally, eliminating cement reduces the chance of peri-implant complications. Many periodontists and implant specialists recommend screw retention for this reason. Furthermore, the fit is typically very precise when the crown is fabricated using digital CAD/CAM technology.
- Retrievability: Easy to remove and reattach when needed
- No cement risk: Eliminates subgingival cement complications
- Precision fit: Digital fabrication ensures accurate margins
- Long-term reliability: Well-suited for anterior and posterior implant sites
- Cleaner tissue response: Often supports healthier peri-implant tissue
How CAD/CAM Technology Elevates Implant Crown Fabrication
At Dentek Digital, we use advanced CAD/CAM workflows to design and mill every implant crown with exceptional accuracy. Digital design allows our technicians to control every detail of the restoration. As a result, the final crown fits more predictably and seats more reliably.
Traditional lab workflows rely heavily on manual processes. Digital workflows, on the other hand, reduce human error at every stage. From the implant scan body data to the final milled crown, precision is built into the process.
The Digital Workflow Step by Step
First, the dentist captures a digital scan of the implant site using a scan body. Next, that scan file is sent to our lab digitally. Then, our technicians design the crown in specialized CAD software, accounting for occlusion, emergence profile, and screw channel angle.
After design approval, we mill the crown from high-quality materials. Finally, our skilled technicians finish and characterize the restoration for a natural appearance. The result is a crown that fits well, looks great, and performs reliably for your patient.
Materials We Use for Screw Retained Crowns
Material selection matters for implant crowns. We work with monolithic zirconia, layered zirconia, and other proven restorative materials. Each material has specific strengths depending on the patient’s occlusal load and esthetic needs.
Moreover, our lab stays current with evolving material science. We continuously evaluate new options to ensure our dentist partners receive the best available solutions. This commitment to quality is a core part of who we are at Dentek Digital.
Serving Dental Practices Beyond Phoenix, Arizona
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona, and proudly serves dental practices across the Greater Phoenix area — including Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert. However, our digital capabilities allow us to partner with dental professionals well beyond Arizona.
Because digital file submission eliminates geographic barriers, dentists anywhere can work with us. West University Place, TX practices can send us digital scan files and case information quickly and easily. Therefore, distance is no longer a limitation when choosing a high-quality digital lab partner.
Why Dentists Choose Dentek Digital as a Lab Partner
We were among the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the country. Our experience in digital dentistry runs deep. Because of this, we bring a level of expertise that newer digital labs simply have not had time to develop.
Additionally, we offer more than just implant crowns. Our full range of solutions includes fixed restorations, removables, splints and nightguards, and advanced services like TattooTH and digital implant planning. In short, we are a comprehensive digital lab partner for modern dental practices.
Screw Retained Implant Crowns: Clinical Considerations for Dentists
Designing a screw retained implant crown requires careful planning. The screw access channel must exit in a functional and esthetic location. For anterior cases, this is especially important — the access hole must be manageable without compromising the smile esthetics.
Furthermore, implant angulation plays a significant role. If the implant is ideally placed, the screw channel often exits through the cingulum or central fossa. On the other hand, angulated screw channels (ASC) can accommodate off-axis implants. Our lab team understands these nuances and designs accordingly.
Occlusal Considerations
Occlusion is critical for implant longevity. Implants do not have a periodontal ligament, so they lack the natural shock absorption of natural teeth. Therefore, we design implant crowns with careful attention to occlusal contacts and lateral excursions.
Heavy lateral forces can stress the implant-crown interface over time. Because of this, we often recommend light occlusal contacts in centric and freedom in lateral movements. We communicate with our dentist partners to ensure the final restoration meets these goals.
Emergence Profile Design
A well-designed emergence profile supports healthy peri-implant tissue. The transition from the implant platform to the crown contour should be smooth and appropriately shaped. Our CAD design process allows precise control over this critical parameter.
Also, the emergence profile varies depending on whether the implant is tissue-level or bone-level. Our technicians account for these differences in every case we design. This attention to detail protects long-term implant health for your patients.
Sending Implant Cases to Dentek Digital
Working with our lab is straightforward. We accept digital scan files from all major intraoral scanner brands. Simply capture the implant scan using a scan body, export the file, and submit it along with your case details.
Our team reviews every case carefully before beginning fabrication. If we have questions or need clarification, we reach out promptly. We believe clear communication leads to better restorations and fewer remakes. That is good for your practice and great for your patients.
Ready to get started? Contact Dentek Digital to send us your next implant case and experience the difference a truly digital lab can make.
What to Include When Submitting a Case
- Digital scan file with scan body in place
- Opposing arch scan
- Bite registration scan
- Implant system and platform details
- Shade selection and material preference
- Any specific design or occlusal notes
Providing complete information at submission helps us deliver the best possible result. Moreover, it speeds up turnaround time and reduces the chance of design questions that delay your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screw Retained Implant Crowns
What is the main difference between screw retained and cement retained implant crowns?
Screw retained crowns attach via a screw directly to the implant. Cement retained crowns use dental cement to bond to an abutment. Screw retained designs are retrievable and eliminate the risk of residual cement complications.
Can screw retained crowns be used for anterior implants?
Yes. With careful implant placement and modern angulated screw channel options, screw retained crowns work well in anterior positions. Proper planning is important to manage the screw access channel esthetically.
What materials work best for screw retained implant crowns?
Monolithic and layered zirconia are among the most popular choices. Material selection depends on the patient’s occlusal load, esthetic demands, and the implant location. Our team can help guide material recommendations based on your case specifics.
How do I submit a screw retained implant crown case to Dentek Digital?
Submit your case digitally through our online case submission portal. Include your scan files, implant system details, shade, and any design notes. Our team will review the case and begin fabrication promptly.
Does Dentek Digital work with dentists outside of Arizona?
Absolutely. While we are based in Phoenix and serve practices in Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and surrounding communities, our digital workflow allows us to partner with dentists nationwide — including practices in West University Place, TX and beyond.
Partner With a Digital Lab That Delivers
Screw retained implant crowns require precision at every stage — from implant placement to final restoration delivery. Working with a highly skilled digital lab makes a measurable difference in your outcomes. At Dentek Digital, we combine cutting-edge CAD/CAM technology with experienced craftsmanship to deliver restorations you and your patients can count on.
We are proud to support dental professionals across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Tempe, and Chandler — and across the country. Whether you are in the Greater Phoenix area or a practice in West University Place, TX, we are ready to be your trusted lab partner.
Explore your options and take the next step toward better implant restorations for your patients. Reach out to the Dentek Digital team today — we look forward to supporting your practice.