Implant restorations have come a long way in recent years. Today, dental practices across Scottsdale and the Greater Phoenix area have access to some of the most advanced options ever developed. Screwmentable implant crowns are one of the most exciting innovations in that space. They combine the best features of screw-retained and cement-retained crowns into one highly functional restoration.
For dental practices that place implants regularly, this restoration type offers real clinical advantages. Furthermore, it simplifies the workflow for both the dentist and the lab. As a result, more practices in Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, and Tempe are asking about this option.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screwmentable implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Therefore, we can deliver precise, reliable restorations that fit your workflow and your patients’ needs.
What Are Screwmentable Implant Crowns?
The term “screwmentable” refers to a hybrid retention method. The crown is cemented to a custom abutment outside of the mouth. Then, the abutment-crown unit is secured to the implant with a screw. This gives the clinician the retrievability of a screw-retained crown with the natural emergence profile of a cement-retained one.
Because of this design, the screw access channel exits through the crown in a controlled way. However, unlike traditional screw-retained crowns, the restoration does not require the screw hole to be in an aesthetically compromising position. In addition, the cementation is done extraorally, which eliminates the risk of excess cement subgingivally.
The Problem with Excess Cement
Subgingival cement is a well-known concern with cement-retained implant crowns. Residual cement around an implant can lead to peri-implant inflammation. This is one of the most common causes of implant complications in clinical practice.
Screwmentable crowns address this directly. Because cementation happens outside the mouth, the clinician has full visibility and control. Therefore, cleanup is straightforward and reliable.
The Limitation of Traditional Screw-Retained Crowns
Standard screw-retained crowns have been the go-to choice for retrievability. However, the screw access hole can compromise aesthetics and occlusion in certain cases. Moreover, implant angulation sometimes makes ideal screw positioning difficult. Screwmentable crowns help solve that challenge as well.
Key Clinical Benefits for Scottsdale Dental Practices
Practices in Scottsdale see a wide range of implant cases. Many patients in the area are experienced dental consumers who expect beautiful, long-lasting results. Therefore, offering a sophisticated option like screwmentable implant crowns can set your practice apart.
Here are some of the key benefits this restoration type provides:
- Retrievability: The screw allows the clinician to remove the restoration if needed without damaging the crown.
- Cleaner emergence profile: Custom abutments can be designed to follow the natural contour of the tissue.
- No subgingival cement risk: Extraoral cementation eliminates one of the leading causes of peri-implantitis.
- Improved aesthetics: The screw channel can be positioned more favorably compared to traditional screw-retained designs.
- Simplified seating appointment: The abutment and crown arrive as one unit, which makes delivery more efficient.
Additionally, the digital workflow at Dentek Digital means every custom abutment is designed and milled with precision. As a result, the fit is consistently accurate, and adjustments at the seating appointment are minimal.
How Dentek Digital Fabricates Screwmentable Crowns
Dentek Digital uses a fully digital CAD/CAM workflow to design and mill each restoration. First, we receive your digital scan or impression data. Next, our technicians design the custom abutment and crown digitally, accounting for occlusion, tissue contour, and implant angulation. Then, we mill both components from high-quality materials.
We were one of the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the country. Because of this, our team has deep experience producing implant restorations of all types. Screwmentable crowns are a core part of what we offer to practices across the Greater Phoenix area.
Materials We Use
Material selection plays a major role in the outcome of any implant crown. For screwmentable restorations, we commonly work with zirconia for both abutments and crowns. Zirconia offers excellent strength and a natural appearance. Furthermore, it is biocompatible and kind to surrounding soft tissue.
In some cases, a titanium base (ti-base) is used in combination with a zirconia or PFM crown. This approach provides a strong metal interface at the implant connection. Meanwhile, the visible portion of the restoration maintains excellent aesthetics. Our team will work with you to determine the best material combination for each case.
The Digital Impression Workflow
Many dental practices in Scottsdale, Chandler, and the surrounding communities are already using intraoral scanners. This makes submitting cases to Dentek Digital fast and simple. You can send digital files directly, and we begin design right away. Moreover, digital impressions tend to be more accurate than traditional physical impressions in many implant cases.
If your practice has not yet transitioned to digital scanning, we can also work with conventional impressions. However, we always encourage practices to explore digital options for implant cases in particular.
Why More Phoenix-Area Practices Are Choosing Screwmentable Restorations
Dental practices across Greater Phoenix are increasingly focused on long-term implant success. Additionally, patients in areas like Mesa, Tempe, and Gilbert are becoming more informed about their treatment options. They often research restorations before their appointments.
Screwmentable implant crowns allow practices to offer a genuinely superior product. On the other hand, older cement-retained designs carry risks that are now avoidable. Therefore, transitioning to a screwmentable workflow can improve both outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Furthermore, retrievability is a major selling point. If a patient ever needs a crown repaired or replaced, the screw-secured design makes that process much more manageable. This is a meaningful advantage over crowns that are permanently cemented with no access for removal.
Supporting Patient Confidence
Patients in Scottsdale and across the Phoenix metro area expect a high standard of care. Offering advanced restorations like screwmentable crowns signals that your practice is current and committed to best practices. Moreover, explaining the benefits clearly to patients can strengthen trust and referrals.
At Dentek Digital, we support your patient communication by providing accurate turnaround times and reliable restorations. Because of this, you can set clear expectations with confidence.
Getting Started with Screwmentable Implant Crowns at Your Practice
Transitioning to a screwmentable workflow does not require a dramatic change in your office. In most cases, your existing digital scanning or impression process remains the same. The key difference is in how the lab designs and delivers the final restoration.
Here is a simple overview of the process when working with Dentek Digital:
- Step 1: Take a digital scan or physical impression of the implant site, including the implant analog or scan body.
- Step 2: Submit your case to Dentek Digital with your prescription and any shade or occlusion notes.
- Step 3: Our team designs the custom abutment and crown digitally and sends you a preview if needed.
- Step 4: We mill, finish, and cement the crown to the abutment in-lab.
- Step 5: You receive a single abutment-crown unit, ready to seat and torque at your delivery appointment.
Additionally, our team is available to answer case-specific questions throughout the process. We work closely with dental practices to make sure every restoration meets your clinical goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screwmentable Implant Crowns
Are screwmentable crowns right for every implant case?
Most implant cases are good candidates for screwmentable restorations. However, certain implant angulations or prosthetic connections may influence the design approach. Our team will evaluate your case and recommend the best solution.
What implant systems does Dentek Digital support?
We work with a wide range of implant systems and prosthetic connections. Therefore, compatibility is rarely a barrier. Contact our team to confirm support for your specific system before submitting a case.
How do screwmentable crowns compare in cost to other implant restorations?
Screwmentable crowns are generally priced similarly to other custom implant restorations. The clinical benefits often justify any difference in lab fees, especially when considering long-term retrievability and reduced complication risk.
Can I use screwmentable crowns for multiple-unit implant cases?
Yes. Screwmentable designs can be applied to multi-unit cases as well as single-tooth restorations. In addition, our CAD/CAM workflow is well-suited to handling more complex cases with multiple implant positions.
How do I submit a case to Dentek Digital?
Submitting a case is straightforward. You can send digital scan files or physical impressions along with a completed lab prescription. Our team will guide you through the process if you are new to working with us.
Partner with Dentek Digital for Your Scottsdale Implant Cases
Dentek Digital is proud to serve dental practices throughout Scottsdale and the entire Greater Phoenix region. We combine advanced CAD/CAM technology with skilled craftsmanship to deliver restorations that perform and look exceptional. Screwmentable implant crowns are one of the best examples of what modern digital dentistry can achieve.
Whether you are just beginning to explore this restoration type or you are ready to submit your first case, our team is here to help. We work as a true partner to the dental practices we serve. Furthermore, our experienced technicians bring precision and care to every restoration we fabricate.
Ready to get started? Contact Dentek Digital today to discuss your next screwmentable implant case or to request a consultation with our team.