Dental implant restorations have advanced significantly in recent years. Today, screw retained implant crowns are one of the most reliable and retrievable options available to dental professionals. They offer precision, longevity, and a cleaner restorative workflow compared to older alternatives.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screw retained implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our digital workflow delivers restorations that fit precisely and perform beautifully. We partner with dentists across the Greater Phoenix area, including practices in Mesa, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Tempe.
Whether you are new to implant restorations or looking to upgrade your current lab partnership, this guide covers everything you need to know. Read on to explore the advantages, the digital process, and how Dentek Digital supports your clinical goals.
What Are Screw Retained Implant Crowns?
A screw retained implant crown attaches directly to the implant fixture using a small screw. This design eliminates the need for dental cement. As a result, the restoration is fully retrievable if adjustments or repairs are ever needed.
This approach differs from cement retained crowns, which bond to an abutment using dental cement. Both options have their place in implant dentistry. However, screw retained designs are increasingly preferred by clinicians for their predictability and ease of maintenance.
Key Components of a Screw Retained Crown
Understanding the components helps you make informed decisions. A screw retained implant crown typically includes three elements working together seamlessly.
- The implant fixture: The titanium post placed in the jawbone by the surgeon.
- The abutment: The connector piece that links the fixture to the crown.
- The crown: The visible, tooth-shaped restoration fabricated by the lab.
In many modern workflows, the abutment and crown are milled as a single monolithic unit. This is known as a screw retained crown with a titanium base, or Ti-base design. Furthermore, this approach simplifies seating and improves overall stability.
Why Dental Professionals Prefer Screw Retained Designs
Clinicians across Scottsdale, Mesa, and the broader Phoenix metro area are increasingly choosing screw retained restorations. The reasons are both clinical and practical. First, retrievability is a major advantage in complex implant cases.
Additionally, screw retained crowns eliminate the risk of excess cement subgingivally. Residual cement near the gum line can cause inflammation and implant complications. Therefore, removing cement from the equation improves long-term patient outcomes.
Retrievability and Long-Term Access
One of the most compelling benefits is retrievability. If a patient chips the crown or requires tissue modification, the restoration can be removed and returned to the lab. This saves time and reduces costs for both the practice and the patient.
Moreover, retrievability allows the clinician to verify implant health at any follow-up visit. In contrast, cement retained crowns can make access to the implant platform more challenging. Because of this, many clinicians now default to screw retained designs for posterior implants especially.
Precision Fit and Passive Seating
A well-fabricated screw retained implant crown must seat passively without tension. Passive seating protects the implant fixture and surrounding bone over time. Our CAD/CAM workflow at Dentek Digital ensures exceptional marginal accuracy on every case.
We use digital design software and precision milling equipment to achieve tight tolerances. As a result, our restorations fit consistently and require minimal chairside adjustment. This saves your team valuable time during the appointment.
The CAD/CAM Digital Workflow at Dentek Digital
Dentek Digital was one of the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the country. Our process is fully digital from design to delivery. This means faster turnaround times and a higher level of precision than traditional methods allow.
When you send us a digital scan and implant information, our team gets to work immediately. We design the crown digitally, verify the fit virtually, and then mill the restoration from high-quality materials. Finally, we finish and quality-check every case before it ships.
Digital Impressions and Scan Body Integration
The digital workflow begins with an accurate intraoral scan. Your team scans the implant site using a scan body, which identifies the implant position and angle. We then use that data to design a crown that accounts for the exact implant position.
This process eliminates the distortion that can occur with traditional impressions. Additionally, digital files transmit instantly, which shortens the overall timeline. Practices in Chandler, Tempe, and Gilbert are already taking advantage of this streamlined workflow with our lab.
Material Options for Screw Retained Crowns
We offer a range of high-quality materials for screw retained implant crowns. The right material depends on the patient’s bite, esthetic needs, and the implant location in the arch.
- Zirconia: Highly durable and esthetic, ideal for posterior and anterior cases.
- Layered zirconia: Offers enhanced translucency for anterior esthetic zones.
- PFM on custom abutment: A proven option for specific clinical scenarios.
- Monolithic zirconia: Maximum strength for high-load posterior restorations.
Our team will help you select the best material for each case. Moreover, we stock high-grade blanks and work with trusted material suppliers to maintain consistent quality across every restoration we deliver.
How Dentek Digital Supports Your Implant Cases
We understand that implant cases require close communication between the lab and the clinical team. Therefore, we make collaboration easy at every stage of the process. Our team is responsive, knowledgeable, and experienced with complex implant workflows.
From single-unit crowns to full-arch implant restorations, we handle a wide range of cases. We serve dental practices throughout the Greater Phoenix area, including communities in Mesa, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Chandler. However, our reputation as a national leader means we work with practices across the country as well.
Case Submission Made Simple
Submitting a case to Dentek Digital is straightforward. You can send us digital files, prescriptions, and case notes through our online portal. Our team reviews every submission carefully and reaches out quickly with any questions.
We also offer support for practices that are transitioning from analog to digital workflows. Additionally, we can guide your team on scan body selection, implant library compatibility, and digital prescription best practices. Our goal is to make every case as smooth as possible.
TattooTH and Advanced Implant Planning
Beyond standard restorations, Dentek Digital offers advanced services that set us apart. Our TattooTH service provides a unique way to personalize restorations for patients who want something distinctive. Furthermore, we offer digital implant planning support to help clinicians prepare for complex surgical and restorative cases.
These advanced services reflect our commitment to staying at the forefront of digital dentistry. As a result, partnering with our lab gives your practice access to capabilities that many labs simply do not offer.
Tips for Getting the Best Results with Screw Retained Crowns
Success with screw retained implant crowns depends on both the lab and the clinical team. Here are some practical tips to help ensure the best possible outcome for your patients.
- Use the correct scan body: Always confirm the scan body matches the implant system and connection type before scanning.
- Check occlusal clearance: Verify that enough vertical space exists for the crown and screw access channel before restoring.
- Submit complete case notes: Include shade, antagonist information, and any special occlusal instructions with your prescription.
- Communicate emergence profile needs: Let us know if you have specific tissue contour requirements for the restoration.
- Review your torque protocol: Always follow the implant manufacturer’s recommended torque value when seating the final restoration.
Following these steps improves communication and reduces the need for remakes. In addition, it leads to a better experience for both your team and your patient.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screw Retained Implant Crowns
What is the difference between screw retained and cement retained implant crowns?
Screw retained crowns attach with a screw and are fully retrievable. Cement retained crowns bond to an abutment using dental cement. Therefore, screw retained designs offer easier access and eliminate cement-related complications.
Can screw retained crowns be used in anterior cases?
Yes, screw retained crowns work well in anterior cases when the implant angle allows for a palatal or lingual screw access channel. Additionally, layered zirconia materials provide excellent esthetics for front teeth restorations.
How long does it take to receive a screw retained crown from Dentek Digital?
Turnaround times vary based on case complexity and material selection. However, our digital CAD/CAM workflow allows us to deliver most restorations efficiently. Contact our team for current production timelines on your specific case type.
What implant systems does Dentek Digital work with?
We work with a wide range of major implant systems and maintain an extensive implant library. If you have a question about compatibility, simply reach out and our team will confirm before you submit the case.
How do I get started with Dentek Digital as my implant lab?
Getting started is easy. Visit our website, review our services, and contact Dentek Digital to send us your first case. Our team will walk you through the submission process and answer any questions you have along the way.
Partner with a Digital Lab That Delivers
Screw retained implant crowns represent the modern standard in implant restorative dentistry. They offer retrievability, precision, and long-term reliability that cement retained designs often cannot match. Moreover, when fabricated using a true digital CAD/CAM workflow, the results are consistently excellent.
Dentek Digital brings together advanced technology and skilled craftsmanship to deliver restorations that perform at the highest level. We proudly serve dental practices throughout Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe, and the entire Greater Phoenix area. Our team is ready to become your trusted implant lab partner.
If you are ready to elevate your implant restorative workflow, we would love to hear from you. Explore your options and reach out to our team today to discuss your next case and learn how Dentek Digital can support your practice goals.