Dental implant restorations have advanced significantly over the past decade. Today, screwmentable implant crowns represent one of the most innovative solutions available to implant-focused dental practices. They combine the strength of a screw-retained crown with the aesthetics of a cement-retained design.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screwmentable implant crowns using a fully digital CAD/CAM workflow. Our lab serves dentists across Greater Phoenix, including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and Scottsdale. However, our reach extends well beyond Arizona — and that includes dental professionals in Coral Gables, FL.
If you are looking for a reliable digital dental lab partner, this guide is for you. We will walk you through what screwmentable crowns are, why they matter, and how our process works.
What Are Screwmentable Implant Crowns?
Screwmentable implant crowns are a hybrid design. They combine features from both screw-retained and cement-retained implant crowns. As a result, clinicians gain the best of both approaches in a single restoration.
The crown is bonded to a titanium base — often called a TiBase — outside of the mouth. Then, the combined unit is delivered and secured with a screw through an access channel. This eliminates excess cement in the sulcus while maintaining retrievability.
How They Differ from Traditional Implant Crowns
Traditional cement-retained crowns carry a known risk. Excess cement can migrate subgingivally, causing inflammation and peri-implant disease. Screw-retained crowns avoid this issue but can compromise aesthetics in some angulations.
Furthermore, screwmentable designs address both concerns. The crown is cemented extraorally to the TiBase in a controlled lab environment. Therefore, there is no risk of subgingival cement contamination during delivery.
Key Clinical Advantages
- Retrievability: The screw access allows easy removal if needed.
- Aesthetics: The design supports optimal emergence profile and natural contours.
- Cleaner delivery: Cementation happens outside the patient’s mouth.
- Versatility: Works well across a range of implant angulations.
- Durability: A strong bond between crown and TiBase supports long-term function.
Additionally, these restorations are compatible with most major implant systems. Our team at Dentek Digital works with a wide range of platforms to support your preferred workflow.
Why Dental Practices Are Choosing This Approach
Implant dentistry continues to grow across the country. Dental practices in competitive markets like Coral Gables, FL are always looking for ways to elevate clinical outcomes. Screwmentable implant crowns offer a clear path forward.
Patients benefit from more predictable results. Clinicians benefit from easier maintenance and retrieval. Moreover, the lab process is streamlined when working with a digital dental lab like Dentek Digital.
The Role of CAD/CAM Technology
CAD/CAM stands for computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. In simple terms, it means we use digital software and precision milling equipment to fabricate your restorations. This replaces traditional hand-wax and casting methods.
Because of this, every screwmentable crown we produce is designed to exact specifications. Our digital workflow begins with your scan data and ends with a precisely milled or printed restoration. There is very little room for human error at each step.
Dentek Digital was among the earliest adopters of digital CAD/CAM workflows in the country. Our experience gives us a clear technical edge. We apply that expertise to every case — whether it comes from Scottsdale, Mesa, or Coral Gables.
Materials We Use
We fabricate screwmentable implant crowns in high-quality materials suited to your clinical needs. Common options include:
- Zirconia: Excellent strength and natural aesthetics for posterior and anterior cases.
- PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal): A proven, durable option for many implant restorations.
- Full-contour zirconia: A monolithic option ideal for high-load posterior cases.
- Layered zirconia: Adds translucency and depth for anterior esthetics.
Our team will help you select the right material based on your case requirements. We discuss occlusal load, aesthetic zone placement, and implant angulation before fabrication begins.
Our Digital Workflow at Dentek Digital
Submitting a screwmentable implant crown case to Dentek Digital is straightforward. We have refined our process to reduce friction and turnaround time. Here is a general overview of how we work.
Step 1: Submit Your Digital Scan
First, send us your intraoral scan or impression data. We accept files from all major scanner brands. Our team reviews the scan for clarity and completeness before proceeding.
Step 2: Design and Approval
Next, our technicians design the crown digitally using advanced CAD software. We carefully plan the emergence profile, occlusal contacts, and TiBase interface. If you prefer, we can send a digital design preview for your review before milling.
Step 3: Milling and Finishing
Then, the crown is milled from the selected material using our precision CAD/CAM equipment. Our skilled technicians handle all finishing, staining, and glazing by hand. We combine technology with craftsmanship at every stage.
Step 4: Bonding and Delivery
Finally, we bond the crown to the TiBase extraorally in our lab. The completed unit is then packaged and shipped directly to your practice. You receive a restoration that is ready for chairside delivery.
This clean, efficient process serves dental professionals in Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, and beyond. We apply the same high standard to every case we receive — including those coming in from practices across Florida.
Supporting Dental Practices Beyond Greater Phoenix
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona. However, our digital lab model allows us to serve dental professionals nationwide. Because we work entirely in a digital format, geography is not a barrier.
Dental practices in Coral Gables, FL can send us cases just as easily as a practice in Scottsdale or Mesa. The digital file travels instantly. Our turnaround times and quality standards remain the same regardless of location.
In addition, we offer personalized support for every case. Our team is available to answer questions about case design, material selection, and implant compatibility. We function as a true partner — not just a vendor.
Why National Dental Practices Trust Us
Dentek Digital has built a reputation as a national leader in digital dentistry. We were early pioneers in adopting CAD/CAM technology at the lab level. That head start gave us years of experience that most labs are still trying to match.
Moreover, we invest continuously in new equipment and techniques. Our team stays current with the latest developments in implant prosthodontics and digital fabrication. As a result, you always receive restorations built on current best practices.
Tips for Dentists Considering Screwmentable Crowns
If you are new to screwmentable implant crowns, here are some practical considerations to keep in mind as you evaluate this restoration type.
- Know your implant platform: Confirm TiBase compatibility before submitting a case.
- Scan carefully: A precise scan of the scan body is essential for an accurate emergence profile.
- Communicate aesthetics goals: Share shade information and any adjacent tooth references.
- Plan for the access channel: Consider angulation when deciding between screw-retained and screwmentable designs.
- Trust your lab: Work with a technician you can communicate with directly about design decisions.
Additionally, do not hesitate to reach out before submitting a case. Our team welcomes pre-case consultations. We can help you determine if a screwmentable crown is the right choice for your specific clinical situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screwmentable Implant Crowns
What implant systems are compatible with screwmentable crowns?
Most major implant systems offer compatible TiBase components. Common platforms include Nobel Biocare, Straumann, Zimmer Biomet, and others. Contact our team to confirm compatibility before submitting your case.
How is the crown secured to the TiBase?
The crown is bonded to the TiBase using dental cement in the lab environment. This is done extraorally under controlled conditions. The bonded unit is then delivered and secured chairside with a screw.
Can screwmentable crowns be retrieved if needed?
Yes. One of the key advantages of this design is retrievability. The screw access channel allows the restoration to be removed and replaced if necessary. This makes long-term maintenance more manageable.
What materials work best for screwmentable implant crowns?
Zirconia is a popular choice for its strength and aesthetics. Full-contour zirconia works well for posterior cases with high occlusal load. Layered zirconia is often preferred in the anterior zone for superior translucency.
How do I submit a case to Dentek Digital from outside Arizona?
The process is simple. Send us your digital scan files along with your case information. We work with dental practices across the country, including in Florida. Our team will guide you through every step of the submission process.
Partner with Dentek Digital for Your Next Implant Case
Screwmentable implant crowns represent a meaningful advancement in implant prosthetics. They offer cleaner delivery, better aesthetics, and long-term retrievability. For dental practices looking to elevate their implant outcomes, this restoration type is worth serious consideration.
At Dentek Digital, we bring precision CAD/CAM fabrication and decades of combined experience to every case. Whether you are in Phoenix, Chandler, or Coral Gables, FL, we are ready to support your practice with the highest quality restorations available today.
Ready to get started? Contact Dentek Digital to send us a case or request a consultation with our team. We look forward to partnering with you.