Assoc. Dr. Elif Öncü explains the details, advantages, and long-term success effects of cemented (bonded) and screw-retained prostheses, which are types of implant-supported prostheses.
What are Cemented (Bonded) Prostheses?
In classic prostheses that are directly bonded to the mouth, since the prosthesis cannot be removed, even if the bonding process is handled carefully, cement (adhesive) material remnants can escape into the gum tissue and reach the implant level. This cement buildup can damage the tissues surrounding the implant, negatively affecting implant success in the long term. What are Screw-Retained Prostheses?
In screw-retained prostheses, no bonding is done in the mouth. Screw-retained prostheses can be easily removed by accessing the screws through the screw holes in the mouth when necessary. Screw-in prostheses are very hygienic, especially in multi-unit prostheses, as they can be removed and professionally cleaned from time to time.
In summary: The biggest disadvantage of screw-in prostheses is that the intermediate parts used during the prosthesis process are somewhat expensive and cannot be applied in every case depending on the implant placement angles.
[Image caption: Screw-in prostheses are very hygienic because they can be removed and professionally cleaned from time to time, especially in multi-unit prostheses.]