If you place dental implants, you already know how critical the final restoration is. Screwmentable implant crowns offer a smart, flexible solution that combines the best of both screw-retained and cement-retained designs. Therefore, more dentists are choosing this approach for their implant cases every year.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screwmentable implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology right here in Phoenix, Arizona. We partner with dental professionals across the Greater Phoenix area — including Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Chandler — to deliver precise, reliable implant restorations. Additionally, we proudly serve dentists across the country, including practices in Weston, FL.
In this post, we break down exactly what screwmentable implant crowns are, why they matter, and how Dentek Digital can support your implant workflow with lab-quality results.
What Are Screwmentable Implant Crowns?
Screwmentable implant crowns are a hybrid restoration design. They use a custom-milled titanium or zirconia coping that screws directly onto the implant abutment. Then, the crown itself is cemented onto that coping outside the mouth. As a result, the final restoration can be seated with a screw — not cement — directly in the mouth.
This approach solves one of the most common challenges in implant dentistry: excess cement below the gum line. Because the crown is pre-cemented to the coping extraorally, there is no loose cement left near the tissue. Moreover, the screw-retained design allows for retrievability when needed.
How the Design Works
First, the lab mills a custom coping that fits the implant abutment precisely. Next, the porcelain or zirconia crown is cemented to the coping in a controlled lab environment. Finally, the combined unit is delivered to the dentist for screw-retained placement. The access hole is then sealed chairside.
This workflow is clean, predictable, and efficient. Furthermore, it gives the restoring dentist full control over occlusion and aesthetics before final delivery.
Screw-Retained vs. Cement-Retained vs. Screwmentable
Traditional screw-retained crowns require ideal implant angulation. Cement-retained crowns are flexible but carry the risk of subgingival cement. Screwmentable crowns, however, offer the retrievability of a screw-retained restoration with the aesthetic flexibility of a cement-retained crown. As a result, they work well even when implant angulation is less than ideal.
Why Dentists Are Choosing Screwmentable Crowns
Screwmentable implant crowns have grown in popularity for good reason. They address real clinical challenges that dentists face every day. Additionally, patients benefit from restorations that are both beautiful and easy to maintain long-term.
Here are some of the key reasons dental practices are making the switch:
- Retrievability: The restoration can be removed if needed without damaging the implant or surrounding tissue.
- No subgingival cement risk: Because cementation happens outside the mouth, excess cement is not a concern.
- Angulation flexibility: The design accommodates implants that are not perfectly vertical.
- Improved aesthetics: The crown is fabricated and finished to your exact specifications before delivery.
- Predictable fit: CAD/CAM milling ensures precise margins and consistent results.
Moreover, screwmentable crowns reduce chairtime. The restoration arrives ready to seat, so your team spends less time on adjustments.
The Dentek Digital CAD/CAM Advantage
Dentek Digital was one of the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the United States. Therefore, we bring deep expertise to every implant case we process. Our lab uses the latest milling and design technology to fabricate screwmentable implant crowns with exceptional accuracy.
We serve dental practices across the Greater Phoenix area — from Gilbert to Scottsdale — and across the country. Our digital workflow means faster turnaround times and fewer remakes. In addition, our skilled technicians review every case to ensure the final restoration meets your clinical and aesthetic goals.
Our Digital Implant Workflow
When you send us a case, our process is straightforward. First, we receive your digital scan or impression data. Next, our technicians design the coping and crown using advanced CAD software. Then, our milling units fabricate the restoration with tight tolerances. Finally, our team inspects and finishes every piece before shipping.
Additionally, we offer digital implant planning services for practices that want to go fully digital from surgery to restoration. This helps ensure the implant is placed in a position that supports the ideal final restoration.
Materials We Use
We fabricate screwmentable implant crowns in a range of high-quality materials. Your choice depends on the clinical situation and patient needs. Common options include:
- Zirconia crowns with titanium copings — ideal for posterior cases requiring strength
- PFM crowns with milled copings — a proven option for mixed aesthetic and functional demands
- Full-contour zirconia — excellent durability for high-load areas
- Layered zirconia — for cases where anterior aesthetics are a priority
Furthermore, all of our materials meet rigorous quality standards. We never compromise on material selection, because the longevity of the restoration depends on it.
Serving Dentists in Weston, FL and Beyond
While our lab is based in Phoenix, Arizona, we serve dental professionals across the country. Dentists in Weston, FL trust Dentek Digital for screwmentable implant crowns because of our consistent quality and reliable turnaround times. Additionally, our digital submission process makes it easy to work with us regardless of your location.
Shipping your cases to a national digital lab is straightforward. Moreover, our team communicates with you throughout the process to make sure every detail is right. We treat every case — whether it comes from Tempe, Chandler, or Weston — with the same level of care and precision.
How to Get Started
Getting started with Dentek Digital is simple. You do not need to be local to Phoenix to partner with us. Here is how the process works for out-of-state practices:
- Submit your case digitally through our online portal or contact our team to discuss your options.
- Send your impressions, scans, or models using our easy shipping process.
- Our technicians design and fabricate your restoration using our CAD/CAM workflow.
- We ship the finished restoration directly to your practice, ready to seat.
Therefore, working with a national digital lab has never been easier. In addition, our team is always available to answer clinical questions or help troubleshoot your case before submission.
Tips for Optimizing Your Screwmentable Crown Cases
Getting the best results from screwmentable implant crowns starts with good case planning. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind as you prepare your cases for the lab.
Plan Implant Position Carefully
Even though screwmentable crowns handle angulation better than traditional screw-retained restorations, good implant positioning still matters. For example, placing the implant with the screw access in a favorable location reduces the need for angled copings. Additionally, proper tissue management supports better aesthetics around the final restoration.
Provide Accurate Impressions or Scans
The accuracy of your restoration depends on the quality of the impression or scan you send. Therefore, take time to ensure your scan captures the full emergence profile and margin detail. If you use a physical impression, make sure it is dimensionally stable before shipping.
Communicate Your Goals Clearly
When you send us a case, include as much detail as possible about your clinical goals. For instance, note the shade, occlusal scheme, and any aesthetic preferences. Because of this level of communication, our technicians can make design decisions that align with your vision from the start.
Verify the Restoration Before Cementing
Once the restoration arrives, always verify fit on the model before cementing the crown to the coping. Moreover, take a moment to check the occlusion and margins before seating. This step adds a small amount of time but prevents issues in the chair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screwmentable Implant Crowns
What makes screwmentable crowns different from traditional implant crowns?
Screwmentable crowns combine screw-retained and cement-retained designs into one solution. Therefore, they offer retrievability without the risk of subgingival cement. Traditional options typically require a choice between one approach or the other.
Can screwmentable crowns be used for anterior implants?
Yes. However, the access hole location must be carefully planned. With good implant positioning and the right material selection, screwmentable crowns can achieve excellent anterior aesthetics. Layered zirconia or PFM options work especially well in visible zones.
How long does it take Dentek Digital to fabricate a screwmentable crown?
Turnaround times vary depending on case complexity and the materials chosen. However, our CAD/CAM workflow is designed for efficiency. Contact our team to discuss expected timelines for your specific case.
Do I need special equipment to work with Dentek Digital?
No special equipment is required to partner with us. Additionally, if you use an intraoral scanner, you can submit cases digitally. We also accept traditional impressions for practices that have not yet made the full digital transition.
Does Dentek Digital support implant systems from major manufacturers?
Yes. We work with a wide range of implant systems and can accommodate most major platforms. Furthermore, if you have a specific system in mind, reach out to our team before submitting your case so we can confirm compatibility.
Partner with Dentek Digital for Screwmentable Implant Crowns
Dentek Digital is proud to be a trusted lab partner for dental professionals across the country. From our home base in Phoenix, Arizona — serving practices in Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, and Tempe — to dental offices in Weston, FL, we bring the same commitment to quality and precision to every case.
Our CAD/CAM technology, skilled technicians, and digital workflow make us one of the most capable implant labs in the country. Moreover, we are always looking for ways to support your clinical goals and deliver restorations your patients will be proud to wear.
If you are ready to elevate your implant cases with screwmentable implant crowns, contact Dentek Digital today and let us help you take the next step.