The term “dental prosthesis” covers every solution designed to replace one or more missing teeth, or to rebuild a tooth too damaged to be simply filled. There are two broad families: fixed<\/strong> prostheses (crowns, bridges, implant-supported prostheses), which the patient never removes, and removable<\/strong> prostheses (partial or complete), taken out each day for cleaning. The choice between these options depends on the number of teeth to replace, the state of the bone, overall health, budget and cosmetic expectations.<\/p>\n At Chantepoulet Dental Clinic in Geneva, every prosthetic project starts with a full assessment (clinical examination, X-rays, sometimes a 3D cone beam scan) and a personalised treatment plan, presented to the patient with a detailed quote before any decision is made.<\/p>\n Many patients hesitate to replace a missing tooth, especially when it is not visible. That is a common mistake. A missing tooth is never an isolated event: it triggers a cascade of consequences throughout the mouth.<\/p>\n First, the neighbouring teeth, which have lost their lateral support, start to tip<\/strong> into the empty space. The opposing tooth (the one facing it), which no longer has a chewing contact, begins to over-erupt<\/strong>, slowly emerging from its socket. Within a few years, the bite becomes unbalanced, chewing turns asymmetrical and the jaw joints (TMJ) can start to suffer.<\/p>\n Second, the bone beneath the missing tooth loses its natural stimulation. It resorbs<\/strong> slowly, in both height and thickness. The longer you wait, the harder (and more expensive) it becomes to place an implant later, because a bone graft may then be necessary.<\/p>\n Third, chewing itself becomes less effective, which can lead to digestive issues, a less varied diet and, over time, nutritional deficiencies. Not to mention the cosmetic and psychological impact of an incomplete smile.<\/p>\n Replacing a missing tooth is therefore not a cosmetic luxury. It is an act of long-term preservation<\/strong> of your dental and bone capital.<\/p>\n These are solutions where the prosthesis is firmly secured in the mouth, either on the adjacent natural teeth or directly on the bone via an implant. The patient never removes it. It is brushed like a natural tooth (with a few specific steps for interdental hygiene).<\/p>\n Fixed prostheses include: crowns<\/strong>, bridges<\/strong>, extensive inlays\/onlays<\/strong>, and implant-supported prostheses<\/strong> (crowns, bridges and full-arch bridges, either screwed or cemented).<\/p>\n These are the prostheses the patient takes out each day to clean them. They come in two versions: partial<\/strong>, when some natural teeth remain to serve as anchors, and complete<\/strong> (denture), when all the teeth on an arch are missing.<\/p>\n Long seen as a second-choice solution, modern removable prostheses have made major progress in comfort, aesthetics and stability, especially thanks to hybrid solutions combining removable dentures and implants.<\/p>\n A crown is a “cap” that entirely covers the visible part of a tooth. It is placed when the tooth is too damaged to be restored with a simple composite or an inlay: very extensive decay, fracture, root-treated and weakened tooth, severe wear.<\/p>\n The goal is twofold: to protect<\/strong> the remaining tooth from fracture, and to restore<\/strong> its shape, chewing function and aesthetics.<\/p>\n Three main families coexist today:<\/p>\n Pure ceramic (zirconia, lithium disilicate such as e.max).<\/strong> This is the modern standard. Highly aesthetic, biocompatible, with no metal framework, it is suitable for both front and back teeth. Zirconia, particularly strong, has become the material of choice for most crowns.<\/p>\n Porcelain fused to metal.<\/strong> A metal core covered with cosmetic porcelain. Very strong, slightly less aesthetic at the gum line (a thin grey band can appear over time if the gum recedes). Still used for certain specific cases.<\/p>\n Pure metal (gold, alloys).<\/strong> Almost abandoned for visible teeth, still sometimes used on back molars for its exceptional longevity, particularly in patients who grind their teeth.<\/p>\n Two sessions are usually enough. At the first, the dentist shapes the tooth to create the space needed for the crown, takes an impression (digital most of the time now) and places a temporary crown. The laboratory makes the final crown in a few days. At the second session, the dentist removes the temporary, checks the fit, the bite and the shade, then cements or bonds the final crown.<\/p>\n In practices equipped with in-office CAD\/CAM<\/strong> (optical camera plus milling unit), a ceramic crown can now be made and fitted in a single session.<\/p>\n A well-made and well-maintained crown lasts on average 15 to 20 years<\/strong>, often longer. Its longevity depends on hygiene, the absence of bruxism and, above all, the health of the underlying tooth (a cavity can still appear at the crown-tooth junction if hygiene slips).<\/p>\n A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by leaning on the neighbouring teeth, which act as pillars<\/strong>. Picture a bridge: two abutments (the pillar teeth, shaped and crowned like for a regular crown) and a deck (the intermediate tooth or teeth, suspended between the pillars).<\/p>\n It is a fixed<\/strong>, aesthetic solution that quickly restores chewing. It was long the standard for replacing a missing tooth and remains relevant in many cases.<\/p>\n A bridge offers a fast result (two to three sessions), excellent comfort (nothing to remove) and often a very satisfying aesthetic outcome. It is also generally less expensive than an implant solution.<\/p>\n Its main limitation: it requires shaping the pillar teeth<\/strong>, even if they are perfectly healthy. This is an irreversible step. On top of that, a bridge does not stimulate the bone beneath the missing tooth, which therefore continues to resorb slowly. Lastly, hygiene around a bridge calls for specific tools (floss with a threader, interdental brush, water flosser) because the pontic (the false tooth) must be cleaned underneath.<\/p>\n A bridge remains a relevant choice when the pillar teeth are already crowned or heavily restored (shaping is no longer a sacrifice), when bone volume is insufficient for an implant and the patient does not wish to undergo a graft, when treatment time is a key criterion, or when an implant is contraindicated for medical reasons.<\/p>\n Conversely, on perfectly healthy pillar teeth, an implant is almost always preferred today.<\/p>\n A dental implant is an artificial root<\/strong> made of titanium (sometimes zirconia), surgically inserted into the jaw bone. Once in place, the bone progressively fuses with the implant surface: this is osseointegration<\/strong>, which usually takes between 2 and 6 months depending on bone quality.<\/p>\n Once the implant has integrated, the dentist attaches a crown<\/strong> (to replace a single tooth), a bridge<\/strong> (to replace several teeth with fewer implants than teeth) or a complete prosthesis<\/strong> (to rehabilitate a full arch).<\/p>\n The implant is now considered the reference solution for replacing a missing tooth, for several reasons.<\/p>\n It does not damage any neighbouring tooth<\/strong>, unlike a bridge. It stimulates the bone<\/strong> in the same way a natural root does, which prevents bone resorption. It offers a sensation very close<\/strong> to a natural tooth, with no discomfort. Its longevity<\/strong> is exceptional: with good hygiene and regular follow-up, an implant can last several decades. And its aesthetic result<\/strong> is generally excellent.<\/p>\n Not everyone is immediately a candidate for an implant. The requirements are sufficient bone volume<\/strong> (otherwise a prior graft can be considered), healthy gums<\/strong> (an unstable periodontium is a failure factor), good general health<\/strong> (some poorly controlled diabetes cases, certain treatments such as bisphosphonates or head and neck radiotherapy are relative or absolute contraindications), and the absence of significant active smoking<\/strong>, which multiplies the risk of failure.<\/p>\n This is precisely what the pre-implant assessment (clinical examination, panoramic X-ray, 3D cone beam scan) is for: to determine feasibility and plan the procedure safely.<\/p>\n The treatment generally runs in several phases, spread over 3 to 6 months.<\/p>\n Phase 1: assessment and planning.<\/strong> Examinations, impressions, 3D scan, bite analysis, detailed quote.<\/p>\n Phase 2: surgical placement of the implant.<\/strong> A short procedure under local anaesthetic (30 to 60 minutes for a single implant), with little post-operative pain. The implant is inserted into the bone, then either covered or left partially exposed depending on the chosen protocol.<\/p>\n Phase 3: osseointegration.<\/strong> A waiting period of 2 to 6 months during which the bone fuses with the implant. A temporary tooth can be fitted, especially in the front area, for aesthetic reasons.<\/p>\n Phase 4: placement of the final crown.<\/strong> Impression, custom crown fabrication, screwed or cemented onto the implant. The patient regains a functional and aesthetic tooth.<\/p>\n In favourable cases, immediate loading<\/strong> is possible: the temporary tooth (sometimes the final one) is placed the same day as the surgery, which significantly reduces the perceived length of treatment.<\/p>\n To replace several adjacent teeth, it is not always necessary to place as many implants as missing teeth. Two implants can support a bridge of three or four teeth. This is both an economical and bone-preserving solution.<\/p>\n For a fully edentulous arch, protocols like All-on-4<\/strong> or All-on-6<\/strong> make it possible to place a complete fixed prosthesis on 4 or 6 strategically positioned implants, sometimes with immediate loading.<\/p>\n Indicated when several teeth are missing but enough remain to serve as support. It consists of a base (resin or a metal alloy such as stellite, thinner and more comfortable), prosthetic teeth and clasps<\/strong> or attachments<\/strong> that secure it to the remaining teeth.<\/p>\n Major advantage: a cost clearly lower than a fixed or implant solution, and the ability to replace several teeth in a single device. Drawbacks: an adjustment period is needed, stability is lower than with a fixed prosthesis, and the pillar teeth carrying the clasps are subject to wear.<\/p>\n When no teeth remain on an arch, the complete prosthesis rests entirely on the gum and the underlying bone. On the upper arch, it mainly holds through a suction effect on the palate. On the lower arch, where no palate exists, it is often harder to keep stable and bone resorption can, over time, make the prosthesis unstable.<\/p>\n This is a particularly interesting hybrid solution. Two to four implants are placed on the arch, and the removable prosthesis clips onto them via attachments (press-studs, connecting bar). The patient can still remove the prosthesis for cleaning, but in the mouth stability is far beyond that of a conventional complete prosthesis.<\/p>\n It is often the best value-for-money comfort solution<\/strong> for edentulous patients who cannot (or do not want to) opt for a full fixed implant rehabilitation.<\/p>\n There is no absolute “best” prosthetic solution. The right choice depends on several parameters, which a dentist takes into account during the initial assessment.<\/p>\n The number and position of the teeth to replace.<\/strong> A single front tooth does not call for the same answer as a complete arch to rebuild.<\/p>\n The condition of the bone.<\/strong> Sufficient bone volume opens the door to all solutions. Heavily resorbed bone may require a graft, or point towards a removable solution.<\/p>\n The condition of the neighbouring teeth.<\/strong> If they are healthy, shaping them for a bridge is avoided as much as possible. If they are already heavily damaged, a bridge can on the contrary become a logical option.<\/p>\n General health and risk factors.<\/strong> Smoking, diabetes and certain medications can alter the available options.<\/p>\n The budget.<\/strong> Cost differences between solutions are significant and coverage by supplementary insurance varies considerably from one contract to another in Switzerland.<\/p>\n The desired treatment timeline.<\/strong> A bridge can be placed in two weeks. A complete implant treatment takes several months.<\/p>\n Aesthetic and functional expectations.<\/strong> How each patient feels matters. Some are very comfortable with a removable prosthesis. Others only feel fully at ease with a fixed solution.<\/p>\n That is precisely the purpose of the prosthetic consultation: to ask these questions, examine the situation objectively, and present the patient with the realistic options, along with their advantages and limitations.<\/p>\n Even the best-made prosthesis will not last if it is not properly maintained.<\/p>\n For a fixed prosthesis<\/strong> (crown, bridge, implant-supported prosthesis), classic brushing twice a day is essential, supplemented by specific interdental cleaning. Around implants, we use interdental brushes<\/strong> adapted to the shape and ideally a water flosser<\/strong>, which removes plaque from areas floss cannot reach. Peri-implantitis (the equivalent of periodontal disease around an implant) is now the leading cause of late implant failure. It is almost always preventable with good hygiene and regular follow-up.<\/p>\n For a removable prosthesis<\/strong>, daily cleaning outside the mouth (specific brush, mild soap or a dedicated product, never regular toothpaste which is too abrasive), regular soaking in a disinfecting solution and a “prosthesis-free” night to let the gum breathe are essential. An annual check-up makes it possible to verify the fit and to reline the prosthesis if needed.<\/p>\n For every prosthesis<\/strong>, an annual dental check-up at minimum is indispensable: it allows early detection of a cavity on a pillar tooth, a starting peri-implantitis, prosthesis wear or a bite imbalance.<\/p>\n In Geneva, Chantepoulet Dental Clinic supports patients throughout the prosthetic journey, from the initial assessment to long-term maintenance. Every project begins with a dedicated consultation: full clinical examination, appropriate X-rays (panoramic, 3D cone beam if needed), bite analysis and an in-depth conversation about the patient’s expectations. The treatment plan is then presented transparently, with a detailed quote in line with Tarmed\/SSO fees and several options whenever that is relevant.<\/p>\n The team offers the full range of modern solutions: ceramic crowns and bridges, single and multiple implants, full-arch bridges on implants, stabilised prostheses, along with conventional removable solutions for patients for whom they remain the most appropriate choice. Implant treatments are planned digitally from 3D imaging to maximise surgical accuracy and safety.<\/p>\n Located on rue de Chantepoulet, at the heart of Geneva and a short walk from Cornavin railway station, the clinic welcomes adult patients and families alike, and places particular importance on patient education: a patient who understands their treatment is a patient who commits to it, and achieves a better long-term outcome.<\/p>\n Is an implant painful?<\/strong><\/p>\n No, no more than a simple extraction. The procedure takes place under local anaesthetic and most patients resume normal activity the next day, with an over-the-counter painkiller for the first few days. Modern techniques (guided surgery, atraumatic instrumentation) have considerably reduced post-operative discomfort.<\/p>\n How long does a dental implant last?<\/strong><\/p>\n With good hygiene and regular follow-up, an implant can last several decades. Clinical studies show survival rates above 95% at 10 years. The crown placed on the implant has a lifespan comparable to that of a conventional crown (15 to 20 years on average).<\/p>\n Is a bridge an outdated solution?<\/strong><\/p>\n No. A bridge is still an excellent solution in many cases, particularly when the neighbouring teeth are already crowned or heavily damaged, or when an implant is contraindicated. It is on perfectly healthy pillar teeth that an implant is preferred today.<\/p>\n Is a removable prosthesis visible?<\/strong><\/p>\n Modern partial prostheses use precision attachments or flexible materials that make the clasps almost invisible. Complete prostheses can be made with very natural-looking teeth and artificial gum. Aesthetics have made major progress.<\/p>\n How much does a dental prosthesis cost in Switzerland?<\/strong><\/p>\n Costs vary widely depending on the solution and the complexity of the case. As a rough guide (outside a personalised quote): a ceramic crown generally costs between 1,200 and 2,000 CHF, a three-unit bridge between 3,500 and 6,000 CHF, an implant with its crown between 3,500 and 5,500 CHF. A portion may be covered by supplementary insurance depending on the contract. Only a personalised quote can provide a reliable figure.<\/p>\n Can you replace all your teeth with implants?<\/strong><\/p>\n Yes, and it is one of the most transformative indications of modern implantology. Protocols such as All-on-4 or All-on-6 make it possible to rehabilitate a complete arch with a fixed prosthesis screwed onto 4 to 6 implants, sometimes with immediate loading.<\/p>\n A missing tooth that bothers you when chewing or smiling? An old crown that is starting to cause trouble? A feeling that it is time to take stock before things get more complicated? Chantepoulet Dental Clinic welcomes you in Geneva for a complete prosthetic assessment, with no obligation, and will present every option suited to your situation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Before we start The term “dental prosthesis” covers every solution designed to replace one or more missing teeth, or to rebuild a tooth too damaged to be simply filled. There are two broad families: fixed prostheses (crowns, bridges, implant-supported prostheses), which the patient never removes, and removable prostheses (partial or complete), taken out each day <\/p>\n
\nWhy replace a missing tooth?<\/h2>\n
\nThe main families of dental prostheses<\/h2>\n
Fixed prostheses<\/h3>\n
Removable prostheses<\/h3>\n
\nDental crowns<\/h2>\n
What is a crown for?<\/h3>\n
Materials<\/h3>\n
How is it placed?<\/h3>\n
How long does a crown last?<\/h3>\n
\nBridges<\/h2>\n
The principle<\/h3>\n
Advantages and limitations<\/h3>\n
When is a bridge preferable to an implant?<\/h3>\n
\nDental implants<\/h2>\n
What exactly is an implant?<\/h3>\n
The main advantages<\/h3>\n
The conditions to meet<\/h3>\n
How an implant treatment unfolds<\/h3>\n
What about implant-supported bridges?<\/h3>\n
\nRemovable prostheses<\/h2>\n
The partial removable prosthesis<\/h3>\n
The complete prosthesis (denture)<\/h3>\n
The implant-stabilised prosthesis<\/h3>\n
\nHow to choose between the different options?<\/h2>\n
\nDaily care of your prostheses<\/h2>\n
\nThe role of Chantepoulet Dental Clinic in your prosthetic project<\/h2>\n
\nFrequently asked questions<\/h2>\n
\nBook an appointment<\/h2>\n