Dental implant restorations have evolved significantly over the past decade. Among the most innovative solutions available today, screwmentable implant crowns offer a unique combination of the best features from both screw-retained and cement-retained designs. For dental practices looking to deliver superior implant outcomes, this restoration type is worth a close look.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screwmentable implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our digital workflow allows us to create precise, reliable restorations for dentists across the country. Furthermore, we proudly serve dental practices throughout the Greater Phoenix, Arizona area, including communities like Mesa, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Tempe.
In this post, we explore what screwmentable implant crowns are, how they work, and why more dental practices are choosing this solution for their implant cases.
What Are Screwmentable Implant Crowns?
Screwmentable implant crowns combine screw-retention and cement-retention into one design. The crown is cemented to a custom abutment outside the mouth. Then, the entire unit is secured to the implant fixture with a single screw.
This approach gives clinicians the retrieval benefits of a screw-retained crown. At the same time, it offers the esthetic flexibility of a cement-retained restoration. As a result, many dentists find this design ideal for challenging implant cases.
How the Design Works
The screwmentable design uses a titanium base, often called a Ti-base, as the abutment component. The crown is fabricated and bonded to the Ti-base in the lab. Next, the combined unit is delivered to the dentist for insertion and screw fixation.
Because the cementation happens extraorally, there is little risk of excess cement remaining subgingivally. This is a critical advantage. Subgingival cement is a known cause of peri-implant complications when using traditional cement-retained crowns.
Why Extraoral Cementation Matters
Traditional cement-retained implant crowns require intraoral cementation. This makes it difficult to fully remove all excess cement. However, screwmentable crowns are cemented to the Ti-base before insertion, outside the patient’s mouth. Therefore, excess cement is easy to clean up in the lab or on the benchtop. This reduces clinical risk and simplifies the delivery appointment.
Key Benefits of Screwmentable Implant Crowns
Dental practices across Phoenix, Mesa, and Scottsdale are increasingly requesting this restoration type. The reasons are clear. Screwmentable crowns offer meaningful advantages for both the clinician and the patient.
Retrievability Without Sacrificing Esthetics
One of the biggest advantages is retrievability. If the restoration ever needs to be removed, the dentist simply accesses the screw and unscrews the unit. This is far less invasive than cutting off a cemented crown. Additionally, the restoration is not destroyed during removal.
On the other hand, traditional screw-retained crowns require the screw access channel to exit through the occlusal or incisal surface. This can compromise esthetics in visible areas. Screwmentable designs allow the screw channel to be positioned more ideally while maintaining a beautiful final result.
Improved Margin Adaptation and Fit
CAD/CAM technology allows Dentek Digital to mill crowns with exceptional marginal accuracy. When bonded to a precisely milled Ti-base, the fit is highly accurate. Moreover, a well-fitting restoration supports long-term tissue health and patient comfort.
Reduced Cement-Related Complications
Peri-implant disease is a serious concern in implant dentistry. Residual subgingival cement is one contributing factor. Because screwmentable crowns are cemented extraorally, this risk is significantly reduced. Therefore, patients benefit from a safer, more predictable long-term outcome.
Flexibility Across Implant Systems
Screwmentable restorations are compatible with a wide range of implant systems. Dentek Digital works with most major platforms. As a result, dental practices in Chandler, Tempe, and surrounding areas can request this restoration type regardless of the implant brand they prefer.
The CAD/CAM Advantage in Screwmentable Crown Fabrication
Not all dental labs have the technology to fabricate screwmentable crowns with consistent precision. At Dentek Digital, we were among the earliest adopters of digital CAD/CAM workflows in the country. This experience gives us a distinct advantage.
Our digital process begins with a precise scan of the implant position. We use this data to design a custom crown and Ti-base combination that fits accurately. Furthermore, our milling equipment produces restorations with tight tolerances and smooth surface finishes.
Digital Impressions and Scan Bodies
Accurate screwmentable crown fabrication begins with a good scan. We recommend that referring dentists use a scan body that is compatible with their implant system. This allows us to capture the exact implant position in the digital model. As a result, the final restoration seats predictably at delivery.
Many dental practices in the Greater Phoenix area, including those in Mesa and Scottsdale, have already transitioned to intraoral scanning. If your practice has not yet made the switch, our team can guide you through compatible options.
Material Selection for Screwmentable Crowns
We fabricate screwmentable implant crowns in a variety of materials. Zirconia is a popular choice for its strength and esthetic properties. Additionally, we offer layered or monolithic options depending on the clinical situation and patient needs.
Our team works with each referring dentist to select the most appropriate material. We consider factors like bite force, opposing dentition, and esthetic zone placement. Finally, every restoration is reviewed for quality before it leaves our lab.
How to Submit a Screwmentable Implant Crown Case
Submitting a case to Dentek Digital is straightforward. Our digital workflow is designed to minimize friction for busy dental practices. Whether you are in Phoenix, Chandler, or anywhere across the country, we make it easy to work with us.
Step-by-Step Case Submission
- Capture a digital scan using a compatible intraoral scanner with the appropriate scan body in place.
- Note the implant system and size so our team can select the correct Ti-base for your case.
- Specify your material and shade preferences at the time of submission.
- Include any relevant clinical photos to help our technicians understand your esthetic goals.
- Submit your case digitally through our easy online portal and we will get to work promptly.
Our team reviews every case carefully. If we have any questions, we will reach out quickly to avoid delays. Additionally, we provide a clear turnaround timeline so you can plan your patient’s delivery appointment with confidence.
Working With Our Lab Team
We believe in strong communication between the lab and the dental practice. Our technicians are knowledgeable and responsive. Moreover, we welcome pre-case consultations for complex implant situations. This collaboration helps ensure the best possible result for your patient.
Dental practices throughout the Greater Phoenix area trust Dentek Digital for this reason. We are not just a vendor. We are a clinical partner invested in your success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screwmentable Implant Crowns
What makes a screwmentable crown different from a regular screw-retained crown?
A traditional screw-retained crown is milled as a single unit with the access channel built in. A screwmentable crown is cemented to a Ti-base extraorally and then screwed into the implant. This gives you better esthetics without sacrificing retrievability.
Is the extraoral cementation technique reliable?
Yes. When done correctly in the lab, extraoral cementation creates a strong bond between the crown and the Ti-base. Additionally, it eliminates the risk of subgingival cement remaining after delivery. This makes it a safer and cleaner option overall.
Which implant systems does Dentek Digital support for screwmentable cases?
We work with most major implant systems. When submitting your case, simply include the implant brand, platform, and connection type. Our team will identify the appropriate Ti-base and proceed with fabrication.
Can screwmentable crowns be used in the esthetic zone?
Absolutely. In fact, this is one area where screwmentable crowns shine. Because the screw channel does not have to exit through the facial surface, we can design the crown for optimal esthetics. Furthermore, zirconia materials allow for natural-looking translucency and shade matching.
How long does it take to receive a completed screwmentable crown from Dentek Digital?
Turnaround times vary depending on case complexity and current lab volume. However, we are committed to efficient production without compromising quality. Contact our team at the time of submission for a specific timeline estimate.
Partner With Dentek Digital for Your Implant Cases
Screwmentable implant crowns represent one of the most versatile and clinically sound options available in implant dentistry today. They combine the esthetic freedom of cement retention with the safety and convenience of screw retention. For dental practices that want the best of both worlds, this is an excellent choice.
At Dentek Digital, we have the technology, experience, and expertise to fabricate these restorations with precision. We serve dental practices throughout Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, and beyond. Moreover, our digital workflow makes collaboration easy no matter where your practice is located.
If you are ready to explore screwmentable implant crowns for your next case, we would love to hear from you. Contact Dentek Digital today to send us a case or request a consultation with our team. We are here to help you deliver exceptional results for your patients.