Inhaltsverzeichnis
What Is Dental Prosthetics?
Dental prosthetics — known in dentistry as prosthodontics — encompasses all measures to replace damaged or missing teeth. Whether a single tooth needs a crown or an edentulous jaw requires rehabilitation with a fixed implant-supported restoration, modern dental prosthetics reliably restore chewing function, speech and aesthetics.
Tooth loss has far-reaching consequences that go well beyond appearance. Without timely replacement, neighbouring teeth drift into the gap, the opposing tooth appears to "grow" out of the jaw (elongation), and the jawbone in the edentulous area gradually resorbs. Early treatment prevents this chain reaction.
We broadly distinguish two categories:
- Fixed prosthetics: Crowns, bridges and implant-supported restorations — permanently cemented or screwed in place, they feel like your own teeth.
- Removable prosthetics: Partial and full dentures — can be taken out for cleaning and offer flexible solutions for more extensive tooth loss.
At our practice in Munich-Oberfoehring, we offer the full spectrum of modern dental prosthetic solutions. As a CEREC-certified practice, we use digital CAD/CAM technology for precise, aesthetically pleasing restorations — often in considerably less time than conventional methods.
Overview of Dental Prosthetic Options
Choosing the right type of dental prosthetic depends on the number of missing teeth, the condition of the remaining teeth, the jawbone and your personal preferences. Here is an overview of the main options:
| Type | Fixed? | Longevity | Insurance | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dental crown | ✓ Yes | 10–15 years | Fixed subsidy | Severely damaged single tooth with preserved root |
| Dental bridge | ✓ Yes | 10–15 years | Fixed subsidy | 1–2 missing teeth with stable neighbouring teeth |
| Partial denture | ✗ Removable | 5–10 years | Fixed subsidy | Multiple missing teeth with remaining natural teeth |
| Telescopic denture | ✗ Removable (secure fit) | 10–15 years | Fixed subsidy | Many missing teeth, high comfort desired |
| Full denture | ✗ Removable | 5–8 years | Fixed subsidy | Edentulous jaw |
| Implant + crown | ✓ Yes | 15–20+ years | Fixed subsidy* | Single or multiple missing teeth, sufficient bone |
| All-on-4 / All-on-6 | ✓ Yes (screw-retained) | 15–20+ years | Fixed subsidy* | Edentulous jaw, desire for fixed teeth in a single day |
* For implants, German statutory health insurance pays the fixed subsidy (Festzuschuss) for the prosthetic component (crown/bridge), not for the implant itself.
Fixed Dental Prosthetics
Fixed dental prosthetics are permanently attached to prepared teeth or implants — you care for them just like your own teeth. They offer the highest level of comfort and the most natural appearance.
Dental Crowns — Protection for Damaged Teeth
A dental crown encases the entire visible tooth like a cap, restoring its shape, function and aesthetics. Crowns are used when a tooth has been so severely weakened by decay, fracture or following a root canal treatment that a filling is no longer sufficient.
At our practice, we prefer to work with all-ceramic and zirconia materials — metal-free, biocompatible and virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Thanks to our CEREC technology, we can fabricate and fit ceramic crowns in a single appointment in many cases.
Dental Bridges — Closing Gaps Reliably
A dental bridge replaces one or two missing teeth by anchoring to the neighbouring teeth (abutment teeth). These neighbouring teeth are crowned, and the bridge is cemented as a single, connected unit.
For patients who wish to preserve their neighbouring teeth, the Maryland bridge (adhesive bridge) offers a minimally invasive alternative: the replacement tooth is bonded to the backs of the neighbouring teeth using thin wings — with little or no preparation required.
Removable Dental Prosthetics
Removable dental prosthetics can be taken out for cleaning and at night. Modern solutions offer significantly more comfort and retention than those of just a few years ago.
Partial Dentures — When Natural Teeth Remain
A partial denture replaces several missing teeth and is attached to the remaining natural teeth. The simplest version is the clasp-retained denture (cast metal framework), which uses metal clasps for retention.
A superior option both aesthetically and functionally is the telescopic denture: inner crowns (primary telescopes) are cemented onto the remaining teeth. The denture contains matching outer crowns (secondary telescopes) that slide precisely over the inner crowns through friction fit. The result: secure retention without visible clasps, yet removable for cleaning when needed. Telescopic dentures are among my preferred solutions for more extensive tooth loss.
Full Dentures — For the Edentulous Jaw
A full denture (complete denture) replaces all teeth in one jaw. It consists of a gum-coloured acrylic base with acrylic teeth attached, held in place by suction and anatomical fit.
In the upper jaw, suction retention generally works well. In the lower jaw, retention is often limited — stabilisation with two to four implants can greatly improve comfort and function.
Implant-Supported Dental Prosthetics
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium or ceramic that are placed into the jawbone and integrate firmly during healing. They serve as the foundation for fixed dental prosthetics — without the need to prepare neighbouring teeth.
Implant-Supported Single Crown and Bridge
A single implant with a screwed-on ceramic crown replaces a missing tooth without placing any load on the neighbouring teeth — the aesthetically and functionally best solution for single-tooth gaps. When several adjacent teeth are missing, an implant-supported bridge can be anchored on two or more implants.
All-on-4 and All-on-6 — Fixed Teeth in a Day
The All-on-4 concept enables the restoration of a fully edentulous jaw with just four strategically placed implants. The two posterior implants are tilted (approx. 45°) to provide sufficient anchorage even when bone volume is reduced — bone grafting is often unnecessary as a result.
With All-on-6, six implants are placed, distributing the load more evenly and providing even greater stability when bone is adequate. In both cases, you receive a provisional fixed restoration on the day of treatment — "fixed teeth in a day". The definitive ceramic restoration is fitted after the healing phase (3–6 months).
As a member of the DGI (German Society for Implantology), I regularly undertake continuing education in the latest implant techniques. At our practice, we plan every implant case digitally using 3D imaging (CBCT) for maximum precision and safety.
Crown or Bridge? A Decision Guide
Many patients ask themselves: "Crown or bridge?" The answer depends on the specific situation:
- Tooth still present but severely damaged? → A crown protects and preserves the tooth.
- One tooth missing, neighbouring teeth already crowned or heavily filled? → A bridge makes sense, as the neighbouring teeth need crowns anyway.
- One tooth missing, neighbouring teeth healthy and intact? → An implant with a crown is the best choice, as the healthy neighbouring teeth need not be prepared.
- A front tooth missing and a conservative solution desired? → A Maryland bridge can replace the tooth without significant preparation of the neighbouring teeth.
During the consultation, I openly discuss all options with their advantages and disadvantages — so that you can make a well-informed decision.
Costs and Fixed Subsidy (Festzuschuss) 2026
The cost of dental prosthetics consists of the dentist's fee, laboratory costs and material costs. As a patient with German statutory health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung), you are entitled to a fixed subsidy (Festzuschuss) from your health insurer — a set amount determined by the dental findings, not by the type of restoration you choose.
How the Fixed Subsidy Works
Since 2005, German statutory health insurance has paid a defined fixed subsidy for every dental prosthetic diagnosis. This covers 60% of the cost of the so-called Regelversorgung (the standard solution deemed medically adequate). As of 1 January 2026, the fixed subsidies were increased by approximately 4.78%.
If you choose a higher-quality restoration (e.g. all-ceramic instead of metal-ceramic), the fixed subsidy remains the same — you pay the difference as your out-of-pocket contribution.
Reducing Your Out-of-Pocket Costs with the Bonus Booklet
With a consistently maintained bonus booklet (Bonusheft) — a record of regular dental check-ups — you can significantly increase your fixed subsidy:
- 5 years of uninterrupted preventive care: fixed subsidy rises to 70% of the Regelversorgung
- 10 years of uninterrupted preventive care: fixed subsidy rises to 75% of the Regelversorgung
In practical terms: for a crown whose Regelversorgung costs around EUR 300, you would receive EUR 180 in subsidy without the bonus booklet. With 10 years of documented check-ups, you would receive EUR 225 — a saving of EUR 45 simply through regular dental visits.
Hardship Provisions and Financing
Patients on a low income can apply for the hardship provision (Härtefallregelung) — the insurer then covers up to 100% of the Regelversorgung. Please speak to us; we are happy to assist you with the application.
For higher-quality restorations, we offer the option of instalment payments to spread the cost over several months. Before treatment begins, you always receive a detailed treatment and cost plan (Heil- und Kostenplan) that transparently itemises all costs — including the anticipated fixed subsidy from your insurer.
The Dental Prosthetic Treatment Process
The path to your new dental prosthetic follows a well-established process — regardless of the type of restoration chosen:
- Examination and consultation: Thorough assessment with radiographic diagnostics, discussion of all options — your wishes and concerns are the focus.
- Treatment and cost plan: You receive a detailed plan showing all costs, the anticipated fixed subsidy and your out-of-pocket contribution. You submit this to your health insurer for approval.
- Preparation: Depending on the restoration, teeth are prepared (trimmed), implants are placed or impressions are taken. Digital impressions with our CEREC scanner are possible in many cases.
- Try-in: For more extensive prosthetics, we check the fit, occlusion (bite) and aesthetics in a try-in appointment.
- Fitting: The finished prosthetic is precisely adjusted and permanently secured. You receive care instructions and a follow-up appointment.
Timeframe: A single crown can be completed in one appointment thanks to CEREC. Bridges and dentures typically require 2–4 appointments over 2–4 weeks. Implant-supported restorations require a healing phase of 3–6 months.
Materials Compared
The material influences the aesthetics, durability, biocompatibility and cost of your dental prosthetic. Here are the main options:
- All-ceramic (lithium disilicate): Highest aesthetics thanks to natural translucency. Ideal for the visible front-tooth region. Metal-free and highly biocompatible.
- Zirconia: Extremely durable yet tooth-coloured. Perfect for posterior teeth and bridges that must withstand high chewing forces. Metal-free.
- Metal-ceramic (PFM): A metal framework with a ceramic veneer. Well-proven, stable and more affordable than all-ceramic. The dark metal margin may become visible at the gum line.
- Acrylic (PMMA/composite): Used mainly for denture teeth and provisional restorations. Cost-effective but less durable than ceramic.
At our practice, I preferably recommend metal-free materials — all-ceramic and zirconia. They are biocompatible, aesthetically superior and can be digitally fabricated with precision using our CEREC technology.
Dental Prosthetics for Nervous Patients
Dental anxiety is no reason to forgo necessary dental prosthetic treatment. At our practice, we offer several ways to make treatment as comfortable as possible:
- Sedation (twilight sedation): You are in a relaxed, sleep-like state and are barely aware of the treatment. Ideal for more extensive prosthetic procedures or implant placements.
- Nitrous oxide sedation: A gentle, easily controlled calming effect through inhalation — you remain conscious but significantly more relaxed. The effect wears off quickly after treatment.
- Compassionate care: We take our time, explain each step in advance and work at your pace. You are welcome to arrange a no-obligation initial consultation to get to know us and the practice.
Learn more: Dental treatment for nervous patients
Care and Longevity
The lifespan of your dental prosthetic depends largely on proper care:
- Fixed prosthetics (crowns, bridges): Care for them like natural teeth — brush twice daily, use dental floss or interdental brushes for the gaps. Beneath bridge pontics, I recommend special Superfloss. Longevity: 10–15 years and beyond.
- Removable prosthetics (dentures): Clean daily with a dedicated denture brush and denture cleanser. Store overnight in water or a cleaning solution. Take particular care of any remaining natural teeth. Longevity: 5–15 years depending on type.
- Implant-supported prosthetics: Care for them like natural teeth, with special attention to the junction between implant and gum. Regular professional implant cleaning is recommended. Longevity: 15–20+ years.
Regular preventive care and check-up appointments every 6 months are crucial for the long-term success of any dental prosthetic.
Why Choose Dr Dickel's Practice for Your Dental Prosthetics?
At our practice in Munich-Oberfoehring, we combine specialist expertise, modern technology and personal care:
- Broad specialist expertise: Member of the DGI (implantology), DGZMK (dental, oral and maxillofacial medicine) and DGAZ (aesthetic dentistry) — three professional societies that cover the full spectrum of dental prosthetics.
- CEREC-certified: Digital CAD/CAM fabrication of ceramic crowns and inlays — in many cases in a single appointment.
- Telescopic denture expertise: We produce high-quality telescopic dentures for optimal retention and natural aesthetics.
- All-on-4 and All-on-6: Fixed implant-supported restorations for edentulous jaws — planned with 3D imaging (CBCT) for maximum safety.
- Nervous patients welcome: Sedation and nitrous oxide for a relaxed treatment experience.
Book your personal consultation — we take the time to answer your questions and work with you to find the ideal solution for your dental situation.
Kosten im Überblick
| Leistung | Preisrahmen | Hinweis |
|---|---|---|
| Dental crown (all-ceramic) | Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket | The fixed subsidy covers 60–75% of the Regelversorgung (standard treatment). The out-of-pocket share depends on the material chosen. |
| Dental bridge (3-unit) | Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket | For a bridge, you receive a fixed subsidy for each tooth involved. Ceramic increases the out-of-pocket share. |
| Partial denture / telescopic denture | Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket | Telescopic dentures are a higher-quality option and correspondingly more expensive than simple clasp-retained dentures. |
| Full denture | Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket | The Regelversorgung (acrylic denture) is largely covered by the fixed subsidy. |
| Implant + crown | Fixed subsidy* + out-of-pocket | The fixed subsidy applies only to the prosthetic component (crown), not to the implant itself. |
| All-on-4 / All-on-6 | Fixed subsidy* + out-of-pocket | Comprehensive implant-supported restoration. Fixed subsidy covers the prosthetic portion. |
Dental crown (all-ceramic)
Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket
The fixed subsidy covers 60–75% of the Regelversorgung (standard treatment). The out-of-pocket share depends on the material chosen.
Dental bridge (3-unit)
Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket
For a bridge, you receive a fixed subsidy for each tooth involved. Ceramic increases the out-of-pocket share.
Partial denture / telescopic denture
Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket
Telescopic dentures are a higher-quality option and correspondingly more expensive than simple clasp-retained dentures.
Full denture
Fixed subsidy + out-of-pocket
The Regelversorgung (acrylic denture) is largely covered by the fixed subsidy.
Implant + crown
Fixed subsidy* + out-of-pocket
The fixed subsidy applies only to the prosthetic component (crown), not to the implant itself.
All-on-4 / All-on-6
Fixed subsidy* + out-of-pocket
Comprehensive implant-supported restoration. Fixed subsidy covers the prosthetic portion.
With a complete bonus booklet (Bonusheft), the fixed subsidy rises to 70% (5 years) or 75% (10 years) of the Regelversorgung. For patients on a low income, the hardship provision (Härtefallregelung) provides up to 100% reimbursement of the Regelversorgung.
We offer instalment payments to spread your out-of-pocket contribution over several months. Before treatment begins, you always receive a detailed treatment and cost plan (Heil- und Kostenplan) with a transparent breakdown of all costs.
Risiken und Sicherheit
Dental prosthetics is a well-established and safe field of treatment. As with any medical procedure, however, complications can occur; we minimise these through careful planning and aftercare.
Adjustment difficulties
Common (temporary)
A normal adjustment period of 1–2 weeks. Occlusion and fit corrections during follow-up appointments.
Sensitivity of prepared teeth
Occasional
Usually temporary. Desensitising measures and adapted cementation technique.
Secondary caries at the crown margin
Rare with good care
Precise crown-margin design, regular check-ups and consistent oral hygiene.
Denture pressure sores
Occasional after fitting
Targeted adjustment of the denture base. Typically resolved after 1–2 adjustments.
Abutment tooth overload with bridges
Rare
Careful planning of bridge statics, regular monitoring of abutment teeth.
Material intolerance
Very rare
We preferably use metal-free, biocompatible materials (all-ceramic, zirconia).
At our practice, we minimise risks through digital planning (CEREC, CBCT), careful material selection, thorough aftercare and regular continuing education in all areas of prosthodontics and implantology.
Qualifikationen und Zertifikate
DGI — German Society for Implantology
Membership
DGZMK — German Society for Dental, Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine
Membership
DGAZ — German Society for Aesthetic Dentistry
Membership
CEREC Certification — Digital CAD/CAM dental prosthetic fabrication
Certified
2012
State Examination in Dentistry
University
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