Screw-Retained Implant Prosthesis

Which Patients are Suitable for Screw-Retained Implant Prosthesis?

This system is suitable for patients who have completed implant treatment and wish to achieve a fixed prosthetic solution. However, the same method may not be preferred for every implant patient. The treatment plan is determined based on oral anatomy and individual needs. Here are the ideal candidates for screw-retained implant prosthesis in Turkey:

• Individuals who have completed implant treatment: The placed artificial tooth roots must be fully integrated with the jawbone. Patients with complete bone healing are the most suitable candidates for this fixed solution.
• Patients with a potential need for future intervention: Issues may arise around the prosthesis or implant. The screw-retained system allows components to be easily removed without damaging the prosthesis. This ensures long-term safety. Also in patients with multiple missing teeth, high stability is required when planning a full-arch or bridge prosthesis. The screw-retained system completely prevents the prosthesis from shifting under chewing forces.
• Patients with sensitive gum health: Residual adhesive (cement) can sometimes cause gum inflammation. No adhesive is used in the screw-retained system. This ensures a tissue-friendly and hygienic structure.

This procedure may not be suitable for certain cases: [1]

• Insufficient implant angle: Implants placed at steep angles due to bone structure may cause screw holes to appear on the tooth’s aesthetic surface. In such cases, alternative connection types are considered.
• Excessive vertical space loss: If the space between the jaws is too narrow, the screw-retained system’s mechanical components may not fit. In these cases, thinner alternatives are preferred.
• Aesthetic challenges: If the screw hole on the front teeth aligns with the tooth’s front surface, aesthetic concerns may arise. Specialists may recommend cement-retained systems if the screw entry cannot be hidden behind the tooth.
• Uncontrolled bruxism: In individuals with teeth-grinding issues, the load on the screws may cause them to loosen. These patients must first be stabilized with additional treatments.

What Does the Screw Retained Prosthesis Procedure Involve?

This procedure consists of several stages and begins after implant treatment is complete. Screw-retained implant prosthesis in Turkey consists of the following steps: [2]

• Preparation and scanning

Special intraoral scanners are used to determine the positions of the implants within the jaw. Using custom measurement tools, the angle and depth of the implants are digitally transferred into a 3D environment. Computer-aided design is performed on the digital data. Tooth shapes and screw entry holes are planned down to the millimeter. In this stage, the bite balance and facial aesthetics are optimized.

• Framework and test

The prepared prosthetic framework is tried in the mouth. The bite alignment, aesthetic appearance, and contact with the gums are checked. All necessary fine-tuning is performed at this stage.

• Screw fixation

The approved prosthesis is attached to the implant body using specialized screws. These screws are secured with a special torque wrench to prevent loosening. This ensures the prosthesis becomes completely immobile in the mouth.

• Closing the screw holes

The small screw holes on the prosthesis are closed with tooth-colored aesthetic composite filling materials. After the screw-retained implant prosthesis is placed, the screw holes are covered. A smooth chewing surface is achieved. A key advantage of this system is that the dentist can remove the prosthesis if necessary. This allows for more controlled maintenance or repair procedures.