What Is a Screw Retained Implant Crown? A Real Procedure Video

If you have ever wondered what actually happens when a dentist delivers a dental implant crown, this post gives you a rare, behind-the-scenes look. Dr. Thanasi Loukas captured this real clinical procedure on video, showing the precise, step-by-step process of delivering a screw retained implant crown to a patient at Loukas Dentistry of Park Ridge.

Watch the Procedure: Screw Retained Implant Crown Delivery

View the full watch page with transcript and procedure details →

What Is a Screw Retained Implant Crown?

A dental implant crown is the visible, tooth-shaped cap that sits on top of a dental implant. There are two ways to attach this crown to the implant: with dental cement, or with a small screw. A screw retained crown is held in place by a tiny titanium screw that passes through the crown and threads directly into the implant post.

At Loukas Dentistry, Dr. Loukas strongly prefers the screw retained design for most cases, and here is why.

Screw Retained vs. Cement Retained: Why It Matters

The choice between screw retained and cement retained implant crowns is one of the most important decisions in implant dentistry, and it is one that many patients never hear about. The difference has significant long-term consequences for your oral health.

With cement retained crowns, excess dental cement can seep below the gum line during placement. This residual cement is extremely difficult to detect and remove, and it can trigger a condition called peri-implantitis, which is inflammation and bone loss around the implant. Studies have shown that excess cement is a leading cause of implant failure.

A screw retained crown eliminates this risk entirely. There is no cement involved. The crown is secured with a single screw, and if the crown ever needs to be removed for cleaning, adjustment, or repair, Dr. Loukas can simply unscrew it, make the necessary changes, and replace it without damaging the implant or the surrounding tissue.

The Delivery Process: What You See in the Video

In the video above, you can see Dr. Loukas carefully seating the custom porcelain crown onto the implant abutment. He checks the fit from multiple angles, verifies the bite with articulating paper, and then torques the retaining screw to the precise specification recommended by the implant manufacturer. The small access hole in the top of the crown is then sealed with a tooth-colored composite resin, leaving a virtually invisible, natural-looking result.

The entire delivery appointment typically takes less than an hour, and patients leave with a permanent, fully functional tooth that looks and feels completely natural.

Is a Screw Retained Crown Right for You?

Most patients who are candidates for a single tooth dental implant are also candidates for a screw retained crown. The key factors Dr. Loukas evaluates include the position of the implant, the available space, and the aesthetic demands of the case. For front teeth and high-visibility areas, the screw access hole is positioned on the back of the crown where it is completely invisible when you smile.

If you are considering dental implants in Park Ridge, IL, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Loukas to discuss which implant crown design is best for your specific situation.