It is common knowledge that dental implants give patients years of oral health and cosmetic benefits. However, it is less commonly known that there are many different techniques for installing the implants. Your dental situation may require one technique over another, so it is important to understand the different types. Today, we explore the features of screwless plants. Specifically, we answer the question, “How do screwless dental implants work?” and explain more about what they are.
What Are Screwless Dental Implants?
Traditionally, dental implants affix to a crown via a screw mechanism. While overall reliable, screw-retained dental implants can lead to some drawbacks, such as the screw needing to be tightened over time. This method of affixing dental implants to the teeth also means that the access point for the screw is visible from the top of the teeth. To avoid these effects, one can opt for screwless dental implants, also called cement-retained dental implants.
How Do Screwless Dental Implants Work?
Screwless dental implants use most of the same materials as screw-retained dental implants but offer a more efficient method of affixing the crown. For this method of implant, your dentist will apply an adhesive to the implant surface and affix the crown directly to the implant post. This adhesive will then harden, ensuring the implant remains in place.
Key Facts About Cement-Retained Implants
Stability
With any tooth replacement, you want to have a stable prosthetic that will be long-lasting. Cement-retained methods of dental implantation provide excellent support for the crown.
Cosmetic Appearance
Using a screwless approach for dental implants results in the same smile aesthetic as traditional methods. The crown will seamlessly lie among your original teeth for a natural look. That being said, cement-retained implants come with the added benefit that the top of the teeth will also look natural. Screw-retained implants have an access point that may be visible from the top of the tooth. Because screwless implants use a crown attached to an implant post, this is not a problem.
Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance practices for screwless implants will be similar to those for screw-retained dental implants. Make sure to brush and floss daily and attend routine dental visits. If you need an implant adjusted or replaced, you will need a professional to handle it.
Risks and Complications
Though any invasive dental procedure can come with risks, they are significantly minimized by working with an experienced specialist. Properly performed treatment should allow you to bypass risks such as cement residue accumulation, which could cause inflammation. Specifically, when attaching your implant, your dentist will need to precisely apply the adhesive to avoid it seeping out and causing issues.
Is the Process the Same for Screwless Implants and Screw-Retained?
In general, the step-by-step process for screwless implants looks almost identical to that of screwed methods.
Step 1: Implant Placement
First, your dentist will surgically insert the implant into the gum line. This step is the same as with traditional methods. The implant will need to integrate into the bone before moving forward.
Step 2: Abutment Placement
The abutment, which the crown will be affixed to, serves as a bridge between the implant itself and the tooth. Proper abutment placement is crucial to avoid irritating the gums and ensure a perfect fit for the implant.
Step 3: Impressions and Fabrication
As with traditional methods, a specialist needs to take impressions of the teeth to create a custom-made crown. The lab technicians will be instructed to create a screwless crown designed for cement methods.
Step 4: Placing the Crown & Adjustments
When the crown is ready, you will return to the office to have it placed. Your dentist will use a precise amount of cement to affix the crown onto the abutment. Then, they will make minor adjustments to ensure proper alignment and position.
Note on Bone Grafting
Any method of dental implants involving post-insertion will require a certain amount of bone density. If a patient does not have sufficient jaw bone mass, they may not yet qualify for dental implants. However, bone grafting can help many patients rebuild enough bone density to support a dental implant.
Support for the Screwless Method
Both screwed and screwless dental implant methods can produce pleasing results, though some research does prefer screwless methods. Regardless, its availability can vary among providers. If you have decided on dental implants, we recommend speaking with your dentist to see what options they offer.
Generally, the option they provide is the one in which they are most skilled. Thus, if your dentist has a proven track record of successfully installing dental implants for patients, either method can provide exceptional results.
What to Watch Out for With Screwless Implants
As with any dental treatment, you want a provider who knows what they are doing. A skilled specialist in screwless dental implants can provide lasting benefits comparable to those of traditional methods.
Ensure your dentist will provide you with the best care by researching them ahead of time. Specifically, you should look into:
- Before-and-after photos of past patients
- Their reviews across multiple platforms (Google, Yelp, etc.)
Screwless dental implants are easier to place for some dental implant providers. As a result, it can be common to see tempting and excellent deals for dental implants that use this method. This is not inherently a red flag and can, in fact, be a major benefit to the procedure. Still, you should do your due diligence in determining whether your provider is experienced with a high success rate.
A Leader in Dental Implants
For any form of dental implant, you want a dentist with years of experience. Visit our office for a personalized approach to tooth restoration that keeps you smiling.