screw-retained prosthesis
An implant-supported restoration that is attached to the implant abutment or fixture by a screw rather than by dental cement.
Full Definition
A screw-retained prosthesis is fixed to an implant by a retaining screw that passes through an access channel in the occlusal or lingual surface of the crown or bridge. This design allows for retrievability, which is a significant clinical advantage. In laboratory documentation, editors must distinguish 'screw-retained' from 'cement-retained,' as the fabrication workflow, materials, and margin designs differ substantially. The access hole is an identifying feature that should be noted accurately in case descriptions.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate 'screw-retained' when used as a compound modifier before a noun (e.g., 'screw-retained prosthesis'). Style varies; confirm house style.
In Context
- "The screw-retained prosthesis was designed with the access channel positioned in the central fossa to preserve aesthetics." — Implant Work Order
- "Ensure that 'screw-retained' is hyphenated consistently throughout the laboratory report." — Copy-editing Note