What Are Screwless Dental Implants

What Are Screwless Dental Implants?

Dental implants have transformed the way we restore missing teeth, offering a secure and natural-looking alternative to dentures or bridges. Traditionally, these implants use tiny screws to anchor replacement teeth to the jawbone. But as dental technology evolves, a new alternative has emerged: screwless dental implants.

Screwless dental implants, sometimes called cement-retained implants, use a different approach to secure the crown or prosthetic tooth in place. Rather than using visible or hidden screws, the restoration is attached to the implant abutment using a special dental adhesive or cement. This method offers a clean aesthetic finish, and in certain situations, can simplify the fitting process.

But what are the pros and cons of this newer technique, and how does it compare to traditional screw-retained implants?

How Do Screwless Dental Implants Work?

All dental implants start the same way. A titanium or zirconia implant post is placed in the jawbone, where it fuses with the surrounding bone over time a process called osseointegration. Once healing is complete and the implant is stable, an abutment (the connector) is attached to the top of the post. This is where the final crown or bridge is fixed.

In traditional implants, this crown is secured with a tiny screw that passes through a small hole in the prosthetic. In screwless dental implants, that crown is cemented to the abutment using a strong dental adhesive. The result is a seamless, screw-free appearance with no visible access holes.

Why Choose a Screwless Option?

One of the main benefits of screwless dental implants is aesthetics. Because there’s no screw hole to cover or fill, the final tooth looks more like a natural tooth especially important for front teeth or highly visible areas. The fit is often smoother, and there’s no risk of the filling material from a screw-access hole discolouring or chipping over time.

Screwless implants can also provide a more stable fit in cases where the alignment of the implant doesn’t allow for a screw to be placed straight through the crown. This can give the dentist more flexibility in positioning, especially when working with angled implants.

For patients, the overall experience is often more comfortable and the results more natural in appearance.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

Like any dental procedure, there are pros and cons. The biggest drawback of screwless dental implants is retrievability. If the crown ever needs to be removed say, for repairs, adjustments or implant maintenance it’s far more difficult to take off a cemented crown without damaging it. This can be a concern over the long term, especially for implants in high-stress areas.

Another consideration is cement leakage. If excess adhesive isn’t fully cleaned away during fitting, it can irritate the gums or contribute to inflammation around the implant site. For this reason, screwless implants should always be fitted by an experienced dentist who understands the risks and knows how to place them properly.

Are Screwless Implants Right for Everyone?

Screwless implants aren’t suitable for every case. The decision often depends on the position of the implant, the condition of the surrounding bone and tissue, and the patient’s overall oral health. Dentists will also consider whether future maintenance might be needed for example, in patients who grind their teeth or have complex bite patterns.

In some situations, dentists may recommend a hybrid approach where some implants are screw-retained for ease of maintenance, while others are cemented for aesthetic reasons.

If you're considering dental implants, your dentist or implantologist will carry out a full assessment, including X-rays and scans, to determine the best approach for your needs.

How Do They Compare Cost-Wise?

The cost of screwless versus screw-retained implants doesn’t usually vary significantly. What tends to affect price more is the complexity of your case, the number of implants needed, and the materials used for your crowns. However, screwless implants may sometimes involve slightly more chair-time for precise cementing and cleaning, which could reflect in the final treatment fee.

Always ask for a full treatment plan and quotation from your dentist, including follow-up care and any potential future adjustments.

A Final Thought

Screwless dental implants offer a clean, aesthetic solution for restoring missing teeth—particularly when appearance and comfort are a priority. While they may not be suitable for every situation, they’re a fantastic option in the right hands and can deliver beautiful, long-lasting results. If you’re unsure which type of implant is best for you, a consultation with an experienced dentist will help you make an informed and confident choice.