Discover the Future of Dental Implants: Screwless Options Explained

What Are Screwless Dental Implants?

“Screwless” dental implants typically refer to systems that avoid a conventional abutment screw. Two main approaches are used. The first is a locking-taper (Morse taper) connection, where the abutment is held in place by friction rather than a screw. Bicon’s locking-taper design is a well-known example. The second is the one-piece (monoblock) implant, often made from zirconia, where the implant and abutment are manufactured as a single component, eliminating the need for an abutment screw altogether. In both cases, the final crown is usually cemented or adhesively bonded, not screw-retained.

These designs aim to minimise micro-gaps at the abutment interface and remove the risk of abutment screw loosening. For many patients, the result can be a cleaner emergence profile and an aesthetic outcome without a visible screw access channel. However, they are not universally suitable; careful case selection and clinician experience remain essential.

Why Are Screwless Implants Becoming a Popular Choice?

Interest in screwless options is growing because they streamline the restorative workflow and reduce the number of mechanical components that can fail over time. Without an abutment screw, there is no risk of screw loosening or screw fracture, both of which can complicate maintenance. The absence of a screw access hole can also benefit appearance and reduce potential staining or filling wear on the occlusal surface.

Some clinicians value the potential for improved soft-tissue stability around a tight, conical friction fit. Patients may also appreciate that fewer components can mean shorter appointments for certain stages. That said, popularity varies by clinic and region, and the final choice still depends on bone quality, bite forces, aesthetic priorities, and the practitioner’s preferred system.

How Do Screwless Implants Work?

Locking-taper systems create a tight, conical friction fit between the implant and abutment. The components are tapped into place with a calibrated force, producing a micro-motion-resistant junction that can be remarkably stable. Removal, when needed, is performed with specialised instruments to break the taper lock. Because the connection is mechanical rather than threaded, there is no torque setting or screw tightening.

One-piece designs integrate the abutment into the implant fixture. After healing, the exposed abutment is prepared if necessary, and the crown is bonded or cemented. This approach removes an interface altogether but demands accurate implant positioning and angulation from the outset, as post-placement adjustments are limited compared to two-piece systems. Both approaches rely on careful occlusal planning to distribute chewing forces and protect the restoration over the long term.

The Key Benefits of Screwless Dental Implants

• Fewer mechanical complications: no abutment screw to loosen or fracture.
• Aesthetics: no screw access channel, which can simplify the crown design.
• Tissue management: tightly fitting conical connections can help achieve a clean emergence profile.
• Simplified maintenance: fewer parts may reduce some chairside complexities.

Considerations include technique sensitivity, the need for precise placement (especially with one-piece implants), and the potential difficulty of retrieval or modification compared with screw-retained crowns. Not every case is ideal for screwless solutions—complex angulations, limited restorative space, or extensive multi-unit bridges may call for alternative strategies.

How Much Do Screwless Dental Implants Cost?

In the UK, private fees for a single-tooth implant restoration commonly range from about £2,200 to £3,500 per tooth for titanium two-piece systems. Screwless options can fall within this band, though ceramic one-piece solutions are often priced at a premium, typically £2,800 to £4,500 per tooth. Geography matters: practices in major cities, including London, frequently charge more. Clinical complexity also drives cost—denser bone, straightforward placement, and minimal aesthetic demands usually reduce fees.

Expect separate charges for diagnostics and adjunctive treatments. Typical price ranges include: CBCT scan (£100–£250), bone graft or guided bone regeneration (£300–£1,200), sinus lift (£900–£2,000), provisional crown or temporary (£150–£400), and retainer/nightguard if indicated. Routine maintenance and hygiene visits remain essential after treatment. NHS funding is limited to specific clinical circumstances and is rarely applicable for implant-based tooth replacement.

The examples below illustrate commonly used screwless or screw-minimising systems and indicative UK patient fees for a single restored tooth (excluding grafting and complex prosthetics). Costs vary by clinic, region, and case complexity.

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.

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.

Conclusion

Screwless implant approaches—whether friction-fit locking tapers or one-piece ceramic designs—offer a credible alternative to conventional screw-retained abutments. They can reduce mechanical complications, support attractive restorations, and simplify certain maintenance tasks. Success depends on diagnosis, planning, and precise execution, and total cost reflects local fees, materials, and case complexity. For many patients, discussing both screw-retained and screwless paths with an experienced clinician helps align long-term function, aesthetics, and maintenance with individual needs.