What are Screwless Implants and How Much Do They Cost?
Screwless implants are an umbrella term for implant restorations where the final tooth or abutment is not secured with a visible prosthetic screw. This article explains what that means in practice, who may benefit, typical costs in the UK, and how to choose a qualified clinic in your area. It keeps the focus on clear definitions, realistic pricing, and patient considerations.
Screwless implants can be confusing because the word “screw” is used in more than one way in dentistry. The implant itself is usually a threaded fixture placed in the jawbone. “Screwless,” however, refers to how the replacement tooth or abutment is attached: instead of a visible prosthetic screw channel, the restoration may be cemented, connected by a friction-fit locking taper, or built as a one‑piece implant where the post and implant are a single unit.
What are screwless dental implants?
Screwless generally describes restorations without a visible screw access hole in the crown. Common approaches include: one‑piece implants (mini or standard diameter) with the post built in; friction-fit or “Morse taper/locking taper” systems where the abutment is tapped into place without an abutment screw; and cement‑retained crowns bonded to an abutment on a conventional implant. Potential advantages are a clean crown surface, fewer components, and a stable, bacteria‑resistant junction in some designs. Limitations include more difficult retrieval if repairs are needed and the need for meticulous technique to manage excess cement where cement is used.
A key takeaway is that “screwless” does not mean the implant fixture lacks threads or isn’t turned into bone. It refers to how the visible tooth is retained. Your dentist will advise whether a one‑piece, friction‑fit, or cement‑retained option suits your anatomy, bite forces, hygiene routine, and long‑term maintenance preferences.
How much do screwless implants cost?
Fees in the United Kingdom vary by region, case complexity, and the system used. As a broad guide, a single-tooth implant with a screwless restoration in a private clinic often totals a few thousand pounds when planning scans, surgery, components, and the final crown are included. Overdentures stabilised by multiple mini or one‑piece implants are priced per arch and can range higher due to the number of fixtures and the prosthesis involved. All figures are estimates and will differ between clinics.
What drives cost? Typical line items include consultation and CBCT imaging, the surgical procedure, any grafting or sinus lift, the specific implant system and materials (titanium vs ceramic), the provisional and final prosthesis, and follow‑up. Practices also price differently based on local overheads and laboratory choices. Ask for a written itemised plan so you understand what is included and what future maintenance might cost.
| Product/Service | Provider | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Locking‑taper implant with screwless abutment (e.g., Bicon system) | Bicon Dental Implants | £2,400–£3,500 per tooth (implant + abutment + crown) in UK private clinics |
| One‑piece mini implants for overdenture stabilisation (e.g., LOCATOR Overdenture Implant) | Zest Dental Solutions | £3,000–£7,000 per arch (4–6 implants + overdenture) |
| One‑piece ceramic implant with crown | SDS Swiss Dental Solutions | £3,000–£4,500 per tooth |
| Cement‑retained crown on a conventional implant (screwless crown) | Various (e.g., Straumann, Nobel Biocare) | £2,000–£3,000 per tooth (implant + abutment + cemented crown) |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
How to choose the right clinic or dentist
- Verify registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) and that the practice is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
- Ask about training and experience with the specific screwless approach proposed (one‑piece, locking‑taper, or cement‑retained), and how complications are managed and retrieved.
- Request an itemised treatment plan covering diagnostics, surgery, prosthetics, maintenance, and any sedation. Clarify whether repairs or remakes are included and the terms of any warranty.
- Look for evidence‑based planning: CBCT‑guided placement, risk assessment for gum health, smoking, diabetes, and medication interactions.
- Discuss hygiene access. For cement‑retained options, ask how excess cement will be controlled. For one‑piece systems, confirm how the crown will be maintained or renewed over time.
- Consider continuity of care, laboratory quality, and whether the system uses widely available components for future servicing in your area.
Why this technique is suitable for older patients
Some screwless options can be advantageous for older adults. One‑piece mini or short implants used to stabilise a complete denture may avoid extensive grafting, reduce chair time, and improve denture stability, which supports chewing and speech. Locking‑taper connections can offer a clean emergence profile and fewer small parts to loosen. For patients with limited manual dexterity, reduced maintenance complexity can help—provided hygiene access is carefully planned.
Suitability is always case‑dependent. Bone density, general health, gum condition, and medicines (for example, anticoagulants or bisphosphonates) influence timing and technique. Where bone is thin, the clinician may propose narrow one‑piece implants or staged grafting. For those with dry mouth or sore gums, the choice between fixed teeth and an overdenture will factor comfort, cleaning ability, and long‑term support.
In summary, “screwless” describes how the visible tooth or abutment is retained—by friction‑fit, cement, or a one‑piece design—rather than the threads of the implant itself. In the UK, costs vary widely based on materials, number of fixtures, and laboratory work, but typical private fees fall within the ranges above. A thorough assessment and an itemised plan from a regulated clinic will help align technique, maintenance, and budget.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
