Screw-retained implant crowns

What are screw-retained implant crowns?

Screw-retained implant crowns are crowns jointly anchored with their abutments in the implant (artificial root canal) by means of a through bolt, unlike cement-retained crowns, which are glued onto the abutments, which in turn are anchored in the artificial root canal by means of screws.

Can the through bolt sufficiently support the crown?

Yes, as our dentist will fasten it applying the appropriate torque with a special torque wrench which will result in excellent stability.

What are the benefits of screw retention over cement retention?

  • Its greatest advantage is easy repairability in case of injury. If further tooth loss indicates another, more extensive tooth replacement, or an old implant crown falls due for replacement, the crown can easily and painlessly be removed without causing damage and performing a major intervention.
  • Incidental gum inflammations and inflammations around the implant are easier to treat if the crown is removable and replaceable following treatment. Thus no new crown(s) are required, which saves money.
  • By being removable, it allows for more accurate professional cleaning.

What are the downsides of screw-retained implant crowns?

  • Since the surface of the crown is opened up to allow the through bolt to be inserted, the cavity needs to be filled which corresponds to somewhat lesser results in aesthetic terms as compared to cement-retained implant crowns.
  • Screw-retained implant crowns are more expensive than cement-retained ones.

What are the indications for screw-retained implant crowns?

They are first and foremost recommended when replacing rear teeth due to the compromised integrity of the crown surface, but they may also be applied in the front region in certain cases. In such cases the dentist and dental technician will jointly consider a set of customised options.

Overall, is screw retention more recommended than cement retention?

Yes. Advantages of screw-retained implant crowns far outweigh those of cement-retained crowns, and if it is within the patient’s means and meets the patient’s aesthetic requirements, we advocate implant crowns.

 

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Implant-borne tooth replacements require as much, if not more care and follow-up as natural tooth-borne varieties.

There is a very close relationship between oral hygiene and the longevity of implants.