What Is A Screw Retained Crown?

What Is A Screw Retained Crown?

Post by : admin | 15 July 2025

What Is a Screw-Retained Crown?

If you’re considering dental implants or have been advised to get one, you may have come across the term screw-retained crown. This article breaks down what it is, why it’s used, and how it compares to other restoration options.    

What Is a Screw-Retained Crown?

A screw-retained crown is a type of dental crown that is fastened to a dental implant using a small screw. This method differs from cement-retained crowns, where the crown is permanently bonded to the implant abutment (a connector piece that screws into a dental implant) using dental cement.

The screw access hole is typically located on the biting surface of the crown and is sealed with a tooth-colored composite, making it virtually invisible while allowing future access if needed.

How Dental Implant Treatment Works

Dental implant treatment involves two main phases:

• Surgical Phase
  

1. 1. • A titanium screw (implant) is surgically placed into the jawbone.
      • Healing takes approximately 3 to 6 months for osseointegration (fusion with bone).
      • During this phase, the implant is covered with either a cover screw or a healing abutment.
        

• Restorative Phase
  

1. • Once integration is confirmed, impressions are taken to begin crown design.
   • The type of crown (screw- or cement-retained) depends on implant position, spacing, and bite height.

One-Stage vs Two-Stage Implant Placement

At Surbiton Dental, we often prefer the one-stage procedure:

• The implant and healing abutment are placed during the same surgery.
• This approach helps the gum tissue naturally shape around the abutment, improving healing and aesthetics.
• No second surgery or additional anaesthesia is required to expose the implant.

However, if the bone is too soft or insufficient in density, a two-stage approach may be necessary. In such cases, the implant is buried under the gum tissue to heal undisturbed and is later exposed in a minor second procedure.

Why Choose a Screw-Retained Crown?

Screw-retained crowns are a modern, precision-driven solution for restoring dental implants, combining function, aesthetics, and retrievability in one smart design.

Discreet, Secure, and Designed for You

At Surbiton Dental, every screw-retained crown is crafted in our on-site implant laboratory for optimal precision and quality control. Each crown is made from porcelain fused to metal (PFM); a durable and aesthetic combination that provides a natural appearance and excellent long-term strength.

Once placed, the crown is secured via a small screw and the access hole is sealed with tooth-coloured composite. This ensures a clean finish that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. In most cases, the access point is barely visible; a small but thoughtful detail that balances form and function.

Retrievable for Future Adjustments

Should anything change — whether it’s bite alignment, wear, or hygiene access — your dentist can remove and reseat the crown without damaging the implant or surrounding tissues. This makes screw-retained crowns easier to maintain, adjust, or replace over time.

Cleaner Fit, Fewer Complications

Because these crowns do not require cement, there’s no risk of cement residue being trapped below the gum line. This helps reduce the chance of peri-implant inflammation or infection, improving the health and longevity of your implant.

Proven Success Rates

Dental implant treatment at Surbiton Dental is successful in over 95% of cases, and screw-retained crowns play a key role in that outcome. Whether you’re replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth, this approach supports both aesthetic goals and clinical longevity.

How Successful Are Screw-Retained Crowns?

Dental implants, especially when restored with screw-retained crowns, are successful in over 95% of cases. Whether replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth, they provide a long-term, stable, and attractive solution for missing teeth.

Considering a Crown Replacement or Dental Implants?

If you’re unhappy with your existing crowns or looking to improve your smile with dental implants, we’re here to help. Contact our team at 0208 399 4311 or email us at info@surbitondental.co.uk to book a consultation.

For more details about our crown services, visit our crowns page.