When it comes to implant restorations, dentists want solutions that are both reliable and retrievable. Screwmentable implant crowns deliver exactly that. They combine the strength of a screw-retained crown with the aesthetics of a cement-retained design. As a result, this approach is quickly becoming a preferred option for many dental practices.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate screwmentable implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our digital workflow ensures precise fit, consistent quality, and faster turnaround. Therefore, your patients spend less time waiting and more time smiling.
Whether you practice in Saratoga, CA or send cases to our lab from across the country, we make the process simple. In addition, our team brings deep expertise in implant restorations to every case we handle.
What Are Screwmentable Implant Crowns?
Screwmentable implant crowns use a hybrid design. First, the crown is bonded to an abutment outside the mouth using dental cement. Then, the entire unit is secured to the implant fixture with a screw.
This design solves a long-standing challenge in implant dentistry. On one hand, screw-retained crowns are retrievable but can be difficult to place in certain angulations. On the other hand, cement-retained crowns offer great aesthetics but carry a risk of excess cement below the gumline.
Screwmentable crowns offer the best of both approaches. Because of this, they have grown in popularity among restorative dentists who want flexibility without sacrificing precision.
How the Design Works
The screwmentable design uses a custom abutment and a crown with an access hole. The crown is first cemented to the abutment in a controlled, above-gum environment. Next, the combined unit is then screwed directly into the implant.
This means there is no excess cement at the tissue level. Additionally, the crown remains retrievable if adjustments or repairs are ever needed. The result is a cleaner, more predictable restoration for both dentist and patient.
Key Components of a Screwmentable Crown
- Custom titanium or PEEK abutment: Designed digitally for a precise implant connection
- Milled or pressed crown: Fabricated from zirconia or lithium disilicate for strength and aesthetics
- Screw access hole: Allows for retrieval without damaging the restoration
- Cemented interface: Created outside the mouth in a controlled setting
Why Dentists Choose Screwmentable Implant Crowns
More dentists are recommending screwmentable implant crowns for good reason. They reduce the risk of biological complications from subgingival cement. Furthermore, they make future retrievability straightforward.
For practices that see a high volume of implant cases, this design simplifies the workflow. Meanwhile, patients benefit from a restoration that looks and feels like a natural tooth. The combination of function and aesthetics is a major advantage.
Retrievability Without Compromise
One of the biggest benefits is retrievability. If a patient needs a crown repaired or replaced, the dentist can simply unscrew the unit. Therefore, there is no need to cut off the crown or risk damaging the implant.
This is especially valuable in complex restorative cases. For example, if an adjacent tooth needs treatment, the implant crown can be removed and replaced without major disruption. Additionally, this flexibility appeals to patients who want long-term peace of mind.
Eliminating the Cement Risk
Residual cement around an implant can cause peri-implantitis, a serious inflammatory condition. Screwmentable crowns eliminate this risk. Because the cement interface is handled above the gumline, excess material is easy to detect and remove.
Moreover, this approach supports healthier tissue around the implant. Healthy tissue leads to better long-term outcomes for patients. As a result, many implant specialists and restorative dentists now prefer this technique.
Dentek Digital’s CAD/CAM Approach to Screwmentable Crowns
At Dentek Digital, we were among the earliest adopters of digital CAD/CAM workflows in the country. Our Phoenix, Arizona lab uses cutting-edge milling and design software to fabricate every restoration. This technology allows us to produce screwmentable crowns with exceptional accuracy.
Our digital process begins the moment we receive your case. We scan the data, design the abutment and crown digitally, and mill the components with precision. Furthermore, our experienced technicians review every case before it ships.
Digital Scanning and Design
We accept digital impressions from leading intraoral scanners. This eliminates the need for traditional PVS impressions in most cases. Additionally, digital files allow for faster design iterations and fewer remakes.
Our design team uses specialized implant software to engineer the screwmentable components. We consider occlusion, emergence profile, and tissue contours in every design. Therefore, the final restoration fits beautifully from the moment it is delivered.
Materials We Use
We offer screwmentable implant crowns in a range of high-performance materials. Our most commonly used options include:
- Full-contour zirconia: Ideal for posterior strength and wear resistance
- Layered zirconia: Combines strength with a lifelike esthetic layer
- Lithium disilicate (e.max): Excellent for anterior esthetics
- Custom titanium abutments: Milled for a precise implant platform connection
Each material is selected based on the clinical requirements of the case. Moreover, we guide dentists in choosing the right option for each patient’s unique needs.
Serving Dental Practices Beyond Phoenix
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona, and proudly serves dental practices across the Greater Phoenix area. We work with dentists in Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert. However, our reach extends far beyond the Valley.
We partner with practices across the country, including those in California. Therefore, dentists in Saratoga, CA can send us cases just as easily as local Arizona offices. Our shipping and case submission process is streamlined and simple.
How to Send Us a Case
Getting started with Dentek Digital is straightforward. First, you submit your digital scan or impression data through our online portal. Next, our team reviews the case and confirms the prescription details. Then, we begin fabrication and ship the completed restoration directly to your practice.
Additionally, our team is always available to answer questions about case design and material selection. We believe in being a true partner to every dental practice we serve. Because of this, our relationships with dentists are built on trust and consistent quality.
Tips for Dentists Placing Screwmentable Crowns
If you are new to screwmentable implant crowns, a few practical tips can help. These recommendations come from our experience working with restorative dentists across many markets.
- Verify implant angulation early: Screwmentable crowns work best when the access hole emerges in a functional position
- Use a torque wrench: Always apply the manufacturer-recommended torque when seating the final unit
- Seal the access hole carefully: Use a material that is easy to remove if the crown ever needs to be retrieved
- Take a final radiograph: Confirm full seating of the restoration before dismissing the patient
- Document the screw type and torque: This information is important for future reference if retrieval is needed
Furthermore, communication with your lab is key. The more detail you provide in your prescription, the better the outcome for your patient. Therefore, we encourage dentists to call or message us with any case-specific questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Screwmentable Implant Crowns
What makes a screwmentable crown different from a regular implant crown?
A screwmentable crown combines screw-retention with a cemented crown-to-abutment interface. The cement is applied outside the mouth, which removes the risk of subgingival cement. Additionally, the screw allows for retrieval if needed.
Is this type of crown retrievable?
Yes. Because the crown is screwed into the implant, a dentist can remove it by accessing the screw. The crown-to-abutment bond can then be released if necessary. Therefore, the restoration is fully retrievable without damage to the implant.
What implant systems does Dentek Digital support?
We support a wide range of implant platforms and connection types. Contact us with your specific implant system details, and we will confirm compatibility before fabrication begins.
How long does fabrication take?
Turnaround times vary based on the case and current lab volume. However, our digital workflow allows us to produce restorations efficiently. We provide estimated timelines when you submit your case.
Can dentists outside of Arizona send cases to Dentek Digital?
Absolutely. We serve dental practices across the country, including California. Our online case submission system makes it easy to partner with us from anywhere.
Partner with Dentek Digital for Your Implant Cases
Screwmentable implant crowns represent a smart evolution in restorative dentistry. They solve real clinical problems while delivering excellent results for patients. Moreover, they give dentists the confidence of knowing they can retrieve and adjust the restoration if needed.
At Dentek Digital, we bring precision, experience, and advanced CAD/CAM technology to every implant case. Our Phoenix lab is trusted by dental practices in Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, and far beyond. We are proud to extend that same quality to practices in Saratoga, CA and across the country.
If you are ready to explore screwmentable implant crowns for your practice, we are here to help. Contact Dentek Digital today to send us a case or request a consultation with our team. We look forward to partnering with you to deliver outstanding restorations for your patients.