Abstract

Background: Mechanical complications such as stripped cover screws remain among the most challenging problems in implant prosthodontics. These issues can prolong treatment, increase patient discomfort, and compromise implant integrity if not managed conservatively. Effective, minimally invasive retrieval methods are crucial to preserve the implant and surrounding structures.

Case Presentation: A 37-year-old healthy female presented with a Neoss dental implant at the mandibular right second molar (site #47), complicated by a stripped cover screw. Previous removal attempts using standard instruments and ultrasonic tips were unsuccessful. A custom retrieval tool was designed using a stripped screwdriver and cobalt-chromium casting to engage the damaged screw precisely.

Results: The stripped cover screw was successfully retrieved with no harm to the implant or adjacent tissues. The patient tolerated the procedure well, reporting minimal postoperative discomfort. A healing abutment was placed for one week, followed by restoration with a screw-retained zirconia crown, achieving functional and esthetic success.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates a conservative, effective, and minimally invasive approach to retrieving stripped cover screws using a custom-fabricated cobalt-chromium tool. The described technique preserves implant integrity, reduces patient morbidity, and can be easily replicated in clinical practice when standard methods fail.

Key words: Cover screw, dental implant, stripped screw, retrieval tool, prosthodontics, case report.