What does “Cover screw” mean?
A cover screw is a low-profile screw that closes the implant body’s connection and is used in an approach allowing healing beneath the gum.
Covering the body for healing beneath the gum
After implant placement, a cover screw may be fitted to the connection and the gum sutured over it. The component is usually not visible in the mouth. The cover screw itself does not support a tooth-shaped prosthesis or perform a chewing function.
The later exposure process
After healing is assessed, second-stage surgery exposes the top of the implant, removes the cover, and connects a healing abutment. Once the gums heal, impressions and prosthetic treatment follow. Not every implant follows this sequence.
How it differs from a healing abutment
A cover screw lies beneath the gum, whereas a healing abutment passes through it to shape healing tissues. If metal becomes visible or the gum opens after surgery, the treating clinic should check whether this is planned exposure or a wound change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a cover screw the same as a connecting screw?
Their roles differ. A cover screw closes the connection during healing; an abutment screw fixes the prosthetic abutment to the implant body.
If it is not visible, has the implant fallen out?
No. In a submerged approach, the implant may be intentionally covered by the gum. Surgical records and imaging confirm its placement and condition.
Questions about cover screws
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Is the implant intended to remain covered beneath the gum?
Explanation and evidenceA two-stage healing plan uses a low-profile cover screw and exposes it during the next surgery.
British Society of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry · Implant Information for GDPs - A choice suited to your condition
What changes at the next stage?
Explanation and evidenceThe cover is removed and a healing abutment connected, followed by gum healing and prosthetic treatment.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals · Dental Implants
