Once a dental implant has been placed and the bone around it has healed, the next step is attaching a dental crown. This crown can either be cemented onto an abutment (a piece that connects to the implant) or screwed directly into the implant. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
Cemented Implant Crowns
Cemented crowns are often considered more aesthetic because they have no screw opening on their visible face. They also allow for more precise adaptation to the gum line, which can result in a more natural appearance. However, a disadvantage of cemented crowns is that if the crown needs to be removed (for example, for the treatment of an infection), this process can be more difficult and may require destroying the crown.
Screwed Implant Crowns
Screwed crowns, on the other hand, are fixed directly into the implant with a screw. This allows for the easy removal of the crown, if necessary, without damaging the crown or the implant. This can be a major advantage in case of complications. The disadvantage is that the fixing screw may be visible, which can compromise the tooth's aesthetics. However, most screwed crowns are designed so that the screw is covered with a ceramic or composite plug that matches the rest of the tooth, reducing the visibility of the screw.
The choice between a cemented and a screwed crown depends on several factors, including the location and number of implants, the patient's overall oral health, and personal preferences.