Dentists seeking reliable, high-quality implant restorations know that the crown design matters just as much as the implant itself. Screw retained implant crowns have become one of the most trusted options in modern implant dentistry. They offer excellent retrievability, a clean margin-free design, and long-term stability for patients.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screw retained implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our digital workflow delivers consistent precision that dentists and their patients can depend on. Furthermore, our team brings deep technical expertise to every restoration we produce.
Whether your practice is located in the Greater Phoenix area — including Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, or Tempe — or you partner with us from across the country, Dentek Digital is ready to support your implant cases with exceptional lab work.
What Are Screw Retained Implant Crowns?
Screw retained implant crowns attach directly to the implant fixture using a small screw. This design eliminates the need for dental cement. As a result, the crown sits securely and can be removed and reseated if clinical needs ever require it.
On the other hand, cement-retained crowns rely on dental cement for fixation. This approach carries a known risk of excess cement remaining beneath the gum line. Because of this, many clinicians prefer screw retention for subgingival implant placements.
Key Advantages of Screw Retention
- Retrievability: The crown can be removed without damage if needed.
- No cement risk: Eliminates the chance of subgingival cement remnants.
- Passive fit: A properly fabricated crown seats with minimal stress on the implant.
- Long-term stability: Screw retention supports consistent occlusal performance over time.
- Cleaner tissue response: Removing cement from the equation often supports healthier peri-implant tissue.
Additionally, screw retained designs work well with angulated screw channel (ASC) technology. This allows the access hole to exit through the occlusal or lingual surface even when the implant is slightly off-axis.
How Dentek Digital Fabricates Screw Retained Implant Crowns
Dentek Digital was one of the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the country. Today, we apply that experience to every implant restoration we produce. Our process is precise, repeatable, and designed to meet the high standards dentists expect.
Step 1 — Digital Scan and Case Submission
First, your practice submits a digital scan file along with your case details. We accept files from all major intraoral scanners. Meanwhile, our team reviews the case information to confirm implant system compatibility and restoration design goals.
Step 2 — CAD Design
Next, our skilled technicians use advanced CAD software to design the crown. We evaluate occlusion, emergence profile, and screw channel angulation carefully. Every design decision is made with clinical function and long-term success in mind.
Step 3 — CAM Milling and Fabrication
Then, the design moves into our CAM milling process. We mill restorations from high-quality materials, including zirconia and other modern options suited to implant-supported crowns. Our milling equipment produces tight tolerances that support accurate seating at delivery.
Step 4 — Quality Inspection and Delivery
Finally, every screw retained implant crown goes through a thorough quality inspection before it leaves our lab. We check marginal fit, contacts, occlusion, and overall aesthetics. Moreover, we ensure the restoration is ready for a smooth, confident delivery appointment.
Why Digital CAD/CAM Technology Makes a Difference
Traditional lab workflows rely heavily on manual processes. Digital CAD/CAM workflows, however, introduce a level of consistency that manual methods cannot always achieve. Because of this, the restorations we produce fit more predictably and perform more reliably.
For screw retained implant crowns specifically, fit accuracy is critical. A poorly fitting crown can stress the implant connection and compromise long-term outcomes. Therefore, the precision of our digital workflow is not just a feature — it is a clinical advantage for your patients.
Dentek Digital serves dental practices across Greater Phoenix, including communities like Gilbert, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Mesa. Additionally, our digital platform allows us to collaborate with dental professionals well beyond our local region.
Materials We Use for Implant Crowns
- High-strength zirconia: Ideal for posterior implant crowns requiring durability.
- Layered zirconia: Balances strength with improved aesthetic translucency.
- Monolithic zirconia: A reliable, cost-effective choice for high-load areas.
- PFM and other options: Available based on clinical and aesthetic needs.
Our team can help you select the right material for each case. Furthermore, we consider factors like occlusal load, opposing dentition, and patient aesthetics in every material recommendation.
Supporting Dentists With Full-Service Digital Lab Solutions
Screw retained implant crowns are just one part of what Dentek Digital offers. We are a full-service digital dental lab serving practices across Greater Phoenix and beyond. Our solutions span fixed restorations, removables, splints, nightguards, and a complete range of implant-supported restorations.
In addition, we offer advanced services like TattooTH and digital implant planning. These tools allow our team to partner with you at earlier stages of treatment. As a result, the final restoration integrates seamlessly into the overall plan.
A Trusted Partner for Implant Cases
Implant cases require close collaboration between the clinician and the lab. We understand that. Therefore, our team is available to discuss case specifics, material choices, and design considerations before fabrication begins. This communication helps avoid surprises at delivery.
Practices in Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, and Scottsdale have found this collaborative approach valuable. Moreover, dentists across the country continue to send implant cases to Dentek Digital because of our consistent quality and responsive service.
Tips for Sending Implant Crown Cases to a Digital Lab
Sending a great scan is the foundation of a great restoration. Here are some practical tips to help your team submit clean, complete implant cases.
- Capture the scan body clearly: Make sure the scan body is fully seated and unobstructed in the scan.
- Include opposing dentition: A full-arch opposing scan helps our team design accurate occlusion.
- Note implant system and size: Always include the implant brand, system, and connection type in your case notes.
- Specify the screw channel exit preference: Let us know if you have a preference for the access hole location.
- Indicate material preference: Share any material or shade requirements upfront to streamline fabrication.
Additionally, clear photos of the patient’s smile and adjacent teeth help our technicians match aesthetics more accurately. Even small details can make a meaningful difference in the final result.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screw Retained Implant Crowns
What is the difference between screw retained and cement retained implant crowns?
Screw retained crowns attach via a small screw directly into the implant. Cement retained crowns use dental cement for fixation. Screw retention allows for easier retrieval and eliminates cement-related risks beneath the gum line.
Can screw retained crowns be used when the implant is not perfectly aligned?
Yes. Angulated screw channel technology allows for some correction of implant angulation. Our team can design the screw access hole to exit through a functional surface even when slight angulation is present.
How long does it take to receive a screw retained implant crown from Dentek Digital?
Turnaround times vary based on case complexity and current lab volume. However, our digital workflow is designed for efficiency. Contact our team for current lead times when submitting your case.
What implant systems does Dentek Digital support?
We work with a wide range of implant systems and connections. When submitting your case, simply include the implant brand and connection details. Our team will confirm compatibility before fabrication begins.
Is zirconia the best material for screw retained implant crowns?
Zirconia is often an excellent choice because of its strength, biocompatibility, and aesthetic quality. However, the best material depends on the specific clinical situation. Our technicians are happy to discuss material options for each case.
Partner With Dentek Digital for Your Implant Cases
Dentek Digital is recognized as a national leader in digital dentistry. We combine the latest CAD/CAM technology with skilled craftsmanship to produce restorations that meet the highest clinical standards. Our team is passionate about supporting dental professionals and their patients.
If your practice is ready to experience the Dentek Digital difference, we invite you to contact Dentek Digital and get started today. Whether you are submitting your first implant case or looking for a more dependable lab partner, we are here to help.
From our lab in Phoenix, Arizona, we serve practices in Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Gilbert, and dental professionals across the country. Furthermore, our team is always available to consult on case design, material selection, and digital workflow questions. Let us help you deliver outstanding implant outcomes for your patients.