Dental implants
A dental implant is a fixed dental prosthesis that acts as an artificial root for a missing tooth, serving as a foundation for crowns, bridges or removable dentures.
Dental implants offer permanent dental replacement for one or more teeth. They can also be used to anchor removable dentures using snap-on attachments.
The treatment process: before fitting a dental implant, the dentist checks if there is sufficient jawbone density to securely hold the implant. If necessary, a bone graft is performed. The implant is then inserted into the jawbone, which typically takes around three months to heal. Once healed, an impression is taken to create the final prosthetic tooth.
Advantages and disadvantages: the advantages of dental implants include long-term stability, preservation of adjacent teeth and versatile application options. Disadvantages include the duration of treatment, which often spans several months, high costs as well as potential risks such as infection or complications during the healing process.
“Even in cases of advanced bone loss, just a few dental implants can significantly improve function. It is not always necessary to fit a separate implant for every missing tooth – pontics or cantilever bridges allow for the replacement of several teeth with fewer implants,” explains dentist Prof. Zitzmann.
Lifespan: dental implants often last 15 to 20 years or longer. This is supported by a long-term study by the University of Bern. The replacement of a crown or bridge on the same implants is usually possible without any issues.
Cost of dental implants: the cost for one or more dental implants often amounts to several thousand francs, which encompasses the surgical procedure, the implant materials, the prosthetic restoration and the dental laboratory work. Additional costs may arise for a bone graft or temporary restorations.
Inlays, onlays and overlays
Inlays, onlays and overlays are fixed dental restoration solutions which restore damaged tooth structure without covering the entire tooth (as is the case with a crown).
Inlays are custom fitted to fill cavities and fit within the biting surface of the tooth (specifically within the cusps), while onlays and overlays (also referred to as partial crowns) cover larger areas of the tooth and can extend over the biting surface. Today, ceramic is the most used material because it is highly durable and offers a natural appearance.
“These solutions are particularly useful for moderate tooth damage and if the bite height is to be restored due to erosion or abrasion,” explains dentist Prof. Zitzmann.
The treatment process: after removal of the caries and old fillings, the tooth is prepared and an impression is taken – either traditionally or digitally using an intraoral scanner. The inlay, onlay or overlay is then fabricated in the laboratory and permanently bonded to the tooth. Treatment typically requires 1 to 2 sessions, depending on the technique used and any necessary adjustments.
Advantages and disadvantages: advantages include the conservative preservation of the natural tooth structure, high stability and natural-looking results. Disadvantages and risks include potential tooth sensitivity, material wear over time and the possibility of the restoration loosening.
Lifespan: inlays, onlays and overlays last an average of 10 to 15 years, depending on the material used, oral hygiene and daily wear and tear.
Costs for inlays, onlays and overlays: the cost of these restorations depends on the material selected, the technical effort in the dental laboratory and the overall scope of the treatment.
CEREC same-day dental crowns
The CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) process allows inlays, crowns or smaller bridges to be produced in a single visit – without requiring a traditional impression.
The tooth is scanned with a 3D camera (CAD). The reconstruction is then designed on the computer and milled from a ceramic block (CAM). This process only takes 15 to 30 minutes. The finished restoration can be fitted and bonded immediately, eliminating the need for temporary restorations or a second session.
Dentures
Dentures are removable dental prostheses that are designed to replace missing teeth and, if necessary, surrounding tissue such as gums or parts of the jawbone.
Dentures are primarily used when multiple teeth are missing or there are no teeth remaining in the jaw.
The base and teeth are typically made from acrylic (plastic). For added stability and strength, metal frameworks are often integrated into the design.
“Dentures are a proven and reliable solution, especially if there is extensive tooth loss or a loss of jawbone and mucous membrane integrity,” Prof. Zitzmann explains.
The treatment process: to create a denture, impressions of the jaw are first taken, and the bite alignment is determined. A prototype is then fitted in the mouth, before the final denture is completed in the dental laboratory.
Partial dentures are supported by the remaining natural teeth, while full dentures replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Dental implants can also be used as additional anchors to improve the stability and hold of the denture.
Advantages and disadvantages: dentures replace missing teeth and tissue, help restore chewing function and aesthetics, and are easy to clean – these are all important advantages. Disadvantages include the time it takes to become accustomed to them as well as potential pressure points which may necessitate professional alignment. Risks are primarily associated with inadequate hygiene or a poor fit.
Lifespan: dentures usually last for several years. Regular check-ups and adjustments are essential to maintain function and comfort over the long term.
Cost of dentures: the costs depend on the type, material and effort required for fitting and fabrication.
