Implant restorations have come a long way. Today, one of the most sought-after solutions in modern implant dentistry is the screwmentable implant crown. This hybrid approach combines the retention of a screw-retained crown with the esthetics and fit of a cement-retained restoration. For dentists looking to offer patients a more predictable, retrievable implant solution, screwmentable crowns are worth understanding deeply.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screwmentable implant crowns with precision using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our digital workflow allows us to deliver restorations that fit accurately, look natural, and support long-term implant health. We partner with dental professionals across the country — including dentists in Old Westbury, NY — to provide lab-quality results they can count on.
In this post, we break down exactly what screwmentable implant crowns are, why they matter, and how our digital lab process supports better outcomes for your patients.
What Are Screwmentable Implant Crowns?
The term screwmentable refers to a restorative technique that blends two traditional implant crown delivery methods. First, the crown is cemented onto a custom abutment. Then, that abutment is screwed directly into the implant. This design eliminates many of the drawbacks associated with each method used alone.
Traditional cement-retained crowns can leave excess cement below the gumline. That excess cement is a known cause of peri-implant complications. On the other hand, screw-retained crowns sometimes compromise esthetics due to access hole placement. Screwmentable crowns solve both problems.
The Two-Part Design Explained
A screwmentable implant crown typically consists of a custom titanium or zirconia abutment and a separate crown. The crown is cemented to the abutment outside the mouth in a controlled, clinical environment. Therefore, cement control is precise and predictable. The abutment-crown unit is then screwed into the implant, offering retrievability when needed.
This design gives clinicians the best of both worlds. Moreover, it allows lab technicians like our team at Dentek Digital to fabricate the restoration with optimal emergence profile and esthetics — without compromising access or seating.
Why Dentists Are Choosing Screwmentable Crowns
Dental professionals across the country are moving toward screwmentable implant restorations for good reason. These crowns offer clinical advantages that benefit both the practitioner and the patient. Additionally, they align well with the precision demands of modern digital dentistry.
Retrievability Without Sacrificing Esthetics
One of the most significant advantages is retrievability. If a patient needs the restoration removed — for any reason — the clinician can access the screw without destroying the crown. Furthermore, because the crown is cemented to the abutment in a lab or clinical setting, the esthetic outcome is not limited by screw hole placement.
For anterior implants especially, this matters. The visible zone demands natural contours and shade matching. Screwmentable designs allow technicians to optimize both without compromise.
Reduced Risk of Cement-Related Complications
Subgingival cement is one of the most common causes of peri-implantitis in cement-retained cases. Because screwmentable restorations are cemented extra-orally, the margin is fully visible during cementation. As a result, excess cement is easily removed before the restoration is ever placed intraorally.
This dramatically reduces the risk of cement-related tissue inflammation. For patients, that means healthier tissue around the implant long-term. For clinicians, it means fewer complications and callbacks.
Predictable Seating and Occlusal Control
Screwmentable crowns seat passively and consistently. The screw provides a known, controlled level of torque. Therefore, clinicians can confirm complete seating without relying on cement to fill gaps or compensate for fit issues. This level of precision aligns well with the digital workflows we use at Dentek Digital.
How Dentek Digital Fabricates Screwmentable Crowns
At Dentek Digital, we are proud to be one of the country’s earliest adopters of digital CAD/CAM workflows. Our process is built around accuracy, efficiency, and quality craftsmanship. From the moment a case arrives at our lab, every step is optimized for a superior result.
Digital Impressions and Case Submission
We accept digital scans from most major intraoral scanning systems. This eliminates the distortion and variability that can come with traditional impressions. Once we receive a scan, our technicians import it directly into our design software and begin planning the restoration.
Additionally, we can work with analog impressions when needed. Our team converts them into accurate digital models using our in-lab scanning technology. Either way, the design process is fully digital from start to finish.
CAD/CAM Design and Milling
Our technicians use advanced CAD software to design screwmentable abutments and crowns with precision. We account for emergence profile, occlusion, adjacent contacts, and shade. Every detail is reviewed before milling begins.
We mill from high-quality materials including zirconia, lithium disilicate, and titanium. Because of this, our restorations are strong, esthetic, and biocompatible. Furthermore, our milling equipment operates to tight tolerances, ensuring consistent fit across every case.
Quality Checks and Finishing
Before any restoration leaves our lab, it goes through a thorough quality review. Our experienced technicians inspect the fit, margins, contacts, and shade. We also verify screw access alignment and abutment seating. Finally, each case is carefully packaged and shipped to arrive ready for delivery.
Dentists in Old Westbury, NY and across the country trust Dentek Digital because our standards are high and our turnaround is reliable. We treat every case with the same attention to detail, regardless of complexity.
Materials We Use for Screwmentable Restorations
Material selection plays a critical role in the performance and longevity of implant restorations. At Dentek Digital, we offer a range of material options to match each clinical situation. Our team can help guide material selection based on esthetics, function, and implant positioning.
- Zirconia: Excellent strength and biocompatibility. Ideal for posterior cases and patients with high bite forces.
- Lithium Disilicate (e.max): Outstanding esthetics with good strength. Well-suited for anterior and premolar cases.
- PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal): A proven classic option still used in select full-arch or high-stress cases.
- Titanium Abutments: Strong, lightweight, and highly compatible with osseointegrated implants.
- Zirconia Abutments: Preferred for anterior cases where tissue esthetics are a priority.
We help dentists select the right combination for each patient. Moreover, our CAD/CAM fabrication ensures the chosen material is used to its full potential in every restoration.
Serving Dentists Nationwide From Our Phoenix, Arizona Lab
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona. We serve dental professionals across the Greater Phoenix area — including communities like Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, and Chandler — and we also work with practices nationwide.
Our digital workflow makes geography irrelevant. A dentist in Old Westbury, NY can submit a digital scan, communicate directly with our team, and receive a high-quality screwmentable implant crown without ever shipping a physical impression. Meanwhile, our Phoenix-based technicians bring years of hands-on experience to every case, no matter where it originates.
We are recognized as a national leader in digital dentistry because we invest in the best technology and the best people. Additionally, we are deeply committed to ongoing education and staying current with the latest advances in implant restorations.
Tips for Dentists Placing Screwmentable Implant Crowns
Whether you are new to screwmentable restorations or looking to refine your workflow, these general guidelines can support better case outcomes.
- Plan implant position early. Screwmentable restorations are most successful when the implant is placed with the prosthetic outcome in mind. Angle and depth matter significantly.
- Use digital scans when possible. Accurate impressions are the foundation of a well-fitting restoration. Digital scanning reduces error and improves communication with the lab.
- Communicate occlusal needs clearly. Let your lab know if the patient has a bruxism history, a high bite force, or specific opposing restorations. This affects material and design choices.
- Request a try-in when appropriate. For complex cases, a try-in appointment confirms fit and esthetics before final delivery. This step can save time and reduce adjustments.
- Review screw access orientation. Confirm that screw access will not compromise the esthetic or functional outcome of the final crown before finalizing the design.
These are general best practices. However, your clinical judgment and knowledge of the individual patient always guide the final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screwmentable Implant Crowns
What makes screwmentable crowns different from standard implant crowns?
Screwmentable crowns combine the benefits of both screw-retained and cement-retained designs. The crown is cemented to the abutment outside the mouth, then the unit is screwed into the implant. This improves retrievability and reduces cement-related risks.
Is the screwmentable technique appropriate for all implant cases?
It works well in many situations, but not all. Cases with unfavorable implant angulation or insufficient restorative space may require a different approach. Your lab team and clinical assessment will help determine the best fit for each patient.
How do I submit a screwmentable implant case to Dentek Digital?
You can submit cases digitally using most major intraoral scanners. Additionally, we accept analog impressions that we convert in-house. Our team will guide you through the process and answer any questions about case requirements.
What materials does Dentek Digital recommend for screwmentable crowns?
It depends on the case. For posterior restorations, zirconia is often preferred for its strength. For anterior cases, lithium disilicate or a zirconia abutment with a pressed crown may be ideal. We work with each dentist to choose the right option.
How long does it take to receive a screwmentable crown from your lab?
Turnaround time varies by case complexity and material. We strive to deliver restorations efficiently without compromising quality. Contact our team directly for current turnaround estimates for your specific case type.
Partner With Dentek Digital for Your Implant Restorations
Screwmentable implant crowns represent some of the most advanced implant restorations available today. They demand precision at every step — from impression to design to fabrication. That is exactly what Dentek Digital delivers.
Whether you are a dentist in Old Westbury, NY or a practice based in Scottsdale, Gilbert, or anywhere across the country, we are ready to support your implant cases with the highest quality digital lab services available. Our CAD/CAM technology, skilled technicians, and proven workflows are designed to help you deliver better outcomes for your patients.
Ready to get started? Contact Dentek Digital today to send us a case or discuss your next implant restoration with our experienced team.