Restoring a single missing tooth with an implant-supported crown is one of the most rewarding procedures in modern dentistry. When the restoration is fabricated with precision and care, patients leave with a result that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. That’s exactly why more dental practices are turning to specialized digital labs for their single unit implant crowns.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate implant crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Our workflow combines digital precision with skilled craftsmanship. The result is a restoration that fits accurately, seats confidently, and delivers long-term value for both the dentist and the patient.
Whether you’re an established implant provider or growing your implant program, partnering with the right dental lab makes a real difference. In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about single-unit implant crown fabrication from a digital lab perspective.
What Is a Single-Unit Implant Crown?
A single-unit implant crown restores one missing tooth. It sits on top of a dental implant fixture that has been surgically placed in the jawbone. Once the implant integrates, the crown is attached — either via a screw or cement — to an abutment that connects the crown to the implant body.
This type of restoration is highly functional and aesthetically predictable. It does not require any alteration of adjacent teeth. Because of this, it’s often considered the gold standard for replacing a single missing tooth.
Screw-Retained vs. Cement-Retained Crowns
These two retention methods each have clinical advantages. Screw-retained crowns are retrievable and eliminate the risk of excess cement around the implant. Cement-retained crowns can offer improved aesthetics in certain cases, particularly when the screw access hole placement is unfavorable.
At Dentek Digital, we fabricate both types. We work with your prescription and preferred workflow. Our team is happy to discuss which option best suits your case before fabrication begins.
Materials Used for Implant Crowns
Material selection matters significantly for implant restorations. Common options include:
- Zirconia — High strength, excellent aesthetics, and minimal wear on opposing teeth
- PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) — A reliable, time-tested option with strong occlusal support
- Full-contour zirconia — Ideal for posterior cases where strength is the priority
- Layered zirconia — Preferred for anterior cases where lifelike aesthetics are critical
Our team helps you select the right material based on the tooth position, occlusal forces, and patient expectations. We never recommend a material that doesn’t match the clinical demands of the case.
The CAD/CAM Advantage in Implant Crown Fabrication
Digital dentistry has transformed the way implant crowns are designed and fabricated. CAD/CAM — which stands for Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing — allows our lab technicians to design restorations with extreme accuracy. This eliminates much of the guesswork associated with traditional analog processes.
At Dentek Digital, we were among the earliest adopters of the digital CAD/CAM workflow in the country. Our team has refined these processes over many years. As a result, we consistently deliver restorations with tight margins, accurate contacts, and predictable outcomes.
How Digital Scanning Improves Implant Crowns
When your practice uses an intraoral scanner, you capture a precise digital impression of the implant site. That file is sent directly to our lab. We use it to design the crown digitally before milling it from a high-quality blank.
This process is faster and more accurate than traditional impression techniques. Additionally, it reduces the risk of errors that can occur during impression taking, pouring, and shipping. The digital workflow benefits everyone — including the patient.
Analog Impressions Still Work
Not every practice has gone fully digital yet. That’s completely fine. We also accept traditional polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) impressions. Our lab scans and converts them into digital models for fabrication. Therefore, you don’t need to invest in new technology just to benefit from our digital workflow.
We serve dental practices at every stage of their digital journey. Whether you’re fully digital or still working analog, we make the process smooth and straightforward.
Why Dentek Digital Is a Trusted Lab Partner
Dentek Digital is based in Phoenix, Arizona. We are recognized as a national leader in digital dentistry. Our lab fabricates restorations for dental practices across the country — and we bring that same level of expertise to every single case we receive.
Our solutions span a wide range of categories. We offer fixed restorations, removables, splints and nightguards, and dental implant solutions. We also provide advanced services including TattooTH and digital implant planning. Every case receives careful attention from our experienced technicians.
Serving Dentists Across Greater Phoenix and Beyond
Our lab is proudly based in Phoenix, Arizona. We work with dental practices in Scottsdale, Tempe, Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, and throughout the surrounding region. Our reputation in the Greater Phoenix area is built on consistency, communication, and quality.
We understand the demands of a busy dental practice. Because of this, we design our workflow to be efficient and reliable. You send us the case — and we handle the rest with care.
Advanced Implant Services Beyond the Crown
We offer more than just crown fabrication. Our digital implant planning service allows us to collaborate with your team before surgery. This helps ensure that the final restoration drives the implant placement — not the other way around.
This restorative-driven planning approach leads to better esthetic and functional outcomes. Furthermore, it reduces the chance of complications at the restorative stage. It’s one of the ways we go beyond a traditional lab relationship.
What to Include When Submitting an Implant Crown Case
Submitting a well-documented case helps us fabricate the most accurate restoration possible. Here’s what we recommend including with every implant crown submission:
- Implant scan body or analog — Identifies the implant system and position
- Digital scan or PVS impression — Captures the implant site and surrounding dentition
- Bite registration — Helps establish accurate occlusion
- Shade information — Including a photograph if available
- Implant system details — Brand, platform size, and connection type
- Retention preference — Screw-retained or cement-retained
- Material preference — If you have one in mind
The more complete your submission, the faster we can fabricate and return your case. However, if you’re unsure about any of these items, our team is always available to guide you through the process.
Tips for Predictable Single-Unit Implant Outcomes
Even the most precisely fabricated crown can underperform if the clinical and lab workflows aren’t aligned. Here are a few general tips that help support consistent results:
Prioritize Implant Position
The implant position affects everything — including emergence profile, screw access, and aesthetics. Ideally, the restorative team and surgeon should communicate before placement. Our digital implant planning service can support this process significantly.
Use a Custom Abutment When Appropriate
Stock abutments work in many cases. However, custom abutments — designed specifically for your patient’s anatomy — often produce better emergence profiles and tissue outcomes. We fabricate custom abutments as part of our implant workflow.
Communicate Shade Early
Shade communication is especially important for anterior implant crowns. A photo taken in natural light, alongside a shade tab, gives our technicians the reference they need. Additionally, consider sending photos of adjacent teeth so we can match texture and translucency.
Plan for the Final Restoration First
One of the most impactful things a dentist can do is plan the final restoration before surgery. This ensures the implant is placed in a position that supports both function and esthetics. It’s a simple mindset shift — but it produces meaningfully better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Single-Unit Implant Crowns
What implant systems does Dentek Digital work with?
We work with a wide range of implant systems. When submitting a case, simply include the implant brand, platform size, and connection type. Our team will confirm compatibility and select the appropriate components for fabrication.
How long does fabrication typically take?
Turnaround times vary based on case complexity and material selection. We work efficiently to meet your scheduling needs. Contact our team directly for current turnaround estimates for your specific case type.
Can I send a digital scan instead of a physical impression?
Yes — and we encourage it. Digital scans speed up the workflow and reduce the risk of distortion. We accept files from all major intraoral scanner platforms. However, if you prefer analog impressions, we accept those as well.
Do you offer custom abutments for implant crowns?
Yes. We fabricate both stock and custom abutments. Custom abutments are particularly beneficial for anterior cases or situations where the implant position is non-ideal. We’ll recommend the best option based on your case details.
What if I’m unsure which material to choose?
Our lab technicians are here to help. Share the tooth position, bite details, and any patient concerns. We’ll recommend a material that balances strength, aesthetics, and longevity for your specific case.
Partner with Dentek Digital for Your Implant Cases
Delivering excellent single-unit implant crowns requires more than a good impression. It requires a lab partner who understands digital workflows, material science, and the demands of modern implant dentistry. Dentek Digital brings all of that — and more — to every case we fabricate.
We serve dental practices across Greater Phoenix, including communities in Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Chandler. Our team is built around precision, communication, and a genuine commitment to supporting your clinical success.
If you’re ready to elevate the quality of your implant restorations, we’re ready to help. Contact Dentek Digital today to send us a case or to discuss your next implant crown submission with our team. We look forward to partnering with you.