There are sometimes situations in which it is necessary to replace the entire set of teeth. There is a method for this that allows for the placement of fixed teeth, which optimally mimic the function and aesthetics of natural teeth. What makes this procedure unique is that these new replacement teeth are anchored to just 4 implants per jaw. This is done without bone grafting and in a single appointment. The rear implants are partially angled. This solution has been extensively researched, has a high success rate, and is associated with few complications. The major advantage over a conventional denture is that the teeth are firmly anchored, preventing any discomfort while eating or smiling.
Read more here about this method, which—depending on the type of implant used—is also known as All-on-4® (Nobel Biocare implants) or Pro Arch (Straumann implants).
The All-on-4® Treatment at a Glance
- You’ll receive fixed teeth in just one day.
- Depending on your dental situation, only 4 implants per jaw are needed.
- The implants serve as anchors for a fixed dental prosthesis.
- The new teeth look remarkably similar to natural teeth.
- The dental prosthesis can withstand normal chewing forces.
- Thanks to local or general anesthesia, the implant procedure is completely pain-free.
Who is a good candidate for fixed dentures?
- You have no teeth or only a few remaining.
- Your remaining teeth are in poor condition and loose.
- You want a fixed, durable, and aesthetically pleasing dental prosthesis.
- It is also possible to treat just one jaw
What are the advantages of fixed teeth in a single day?
- Fixed teeth in a single day
- Just one surgical procedure (under general anesthesia if desired)
- Implant placement without bone grafting (resulting in a lower risk of complications)
- 4 implants per jaw instead of the previous 6–8
- Simplified oral hygiene due to fewer implants
- Custom-fitted, resulting in beautiful, aesthetically pleasing new teeth
- A screw connection allows the dentist to easily remove the otherwise permanently fixed teeth if necessary
- Excellent and scientifically proven long-term success rates
- Few appointments, making it suitable even for patients with long commutes and those with dental anxiety
The All-on-4® Treatment Process
The Initial Consultation
Before we begin treatment in Zurich—or in Bern, if you prefer—we take the time for a detailed initial consultation. An experienced dental specialist in oral surgery, who holds a Master of Advanced Studies in Oral Implantology, will discuss all the important details regarding your new dental prosthesis with you. You’re also welcome to ask any personal questions you may have at your leisure.
The Preliminary Examination
Once you’ve decided on fixed dental implants, the next step is a thorough preliminary examination. The dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and jaw to ensure that the surgery can be performed without complications. If this is not the case, preparatory treatment steps may be necessary.
To prepare for surgery, we take 3-D images of your jaw (3D X-ray and digital 3D scan—formerly known as an impression using impression material). Using the 3-D model, the number and position of the dental implants are precisely planned. If the jawbone is very narrow, it may be necessary to place six implants per jaw instead of the planned four (All-on-6). The dentist will discuss with you which approach is best for your case after assessing the condition of your jawbone.
The Surgery
In 80% of cases, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, but it can also be done under local anesthesia. The day of the surgery typically proceeds as follows:
8:00 a.m.: We welcome you to our practice in the heart of Zurich or, if you prefer, in the center of the capital city of Bern.
8:30 a.m.: Everything has been discussed in advance! Costs, risks, time required… By the day of the procedure, there should be no unanswered questions. Your dentist will go over the exact procedure with you once more. If you prefer general anesthesia, an experienced anesthesiologist and their team will administer it.
9:00 a.m.: The dentist begins the surgery. If necessary, any remaining natural teeth will be extracted first. The dentist then anchors the implants in the jawbone. An abutment is screwed onto each implant, which will later serve as the base for the dental prosthesis.
12:00 PM: The surgical procedure is complete. While you’re still under anesthesia, your prefabricated new teeth are placed or screwed directly onto the new implants in close collaboration with the dental technician. So you’ll wake up with a new smile.
2:00 p.m.: Once the anesthesia has worn off, we’ll discharge you and you may leave our office. The temporary new teeth can bear weight immediately.
The Permanent Dental Prosthesis
After the surgery, it takes about 3–4 months for the implants to fully integrate into the jawbone. A brief follow-up visit will take place 2 weeks after the procedure; otherwise, no further checkups are necessary until the new teeth are ready. Impressions for the final dental prosthesis are not taken until toward the end of the healing period, as the condition of the jawbone is still changing. Your final dental prosthesis will then be custom-made in the dental laboratory and fitted by the dentist at your next appointment. As with the temporary teeth, we take your preferences regarding color and shape into account, and you can count on the extensive experience of our dental technicians.
FAQ
The procedure usually takes about 4–6 hours, depending on whether both jaws are being treated. Before the implant procedure, your dentist will discuss with you how much time you should set aside for your appointment.
The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia and is therefore completely painless for you. Once the anesthesia wears off, you may experience mild pain, but we will prescribe appropriate pain medication for you in advance. Generally, you should feel nothing more than a slight sensation of pressure, which will subside after a few days.
In the weeks following the procedure, a follow-up appointment is usually scheduled. Your dentist will check the healing progress and ensure that the temporary restoration fits properly. If necessary, he or she will make minor adjustments.
The permanent dentures will be fitted after a few months. Cleaning and care are essentially the same as for natural teeth. Two to four times a year, we’ll invite you to a follow-up appointment in Zurich or Bern, where we’ll perform a professional teeth cleaning and check the dentures.
After the surgery, you may eat and drink immediately. The temporary restoration is firmly anchored, so you can use your temporary teeth as you normally would. This is one of the major advantages of the Pro Arch concept. Given the new situation, it makes sense not to start right away with foods that are too hard (nuts and stringy meat).
This procedure allows people with serious dental problems to start a new chapter in their lives. The planning and procedure span several appointments, and the procedure requires a high level of surgical and prosthetic skill on the part of the dentist. There are only a few dentists who offer this procedure. The cost for a full set of dentures for one jaw starts at CHF 20,000 and depends on your specific situation. We will advise you on this matter to ensure that everything is fully clarified before treatment begins.
Speak with Dr. med. dent. Andreas Bingisser, our expert in this treatment.
Our experts in fixed dentures in a single day at Bellevue
Dr. med. dent.
Andreas Bingisser
Dr. med. Dr. med. dent.
Ulrich Arhold
Do you have questions about dental prostheses using the Pro Arch/All-on-4® method (fixed dentures), or would you like a personalized consultation?
We’d be happy to discuss with you how we can help you regain a carefree smile. Schedule a consultation today.
All-on-4® Information Sessions in Zurich
Visit us in person at our practice and learn more about fixed third teeth in a single day at one of our informational events.
Limited number of participants—advance registration is required via the contact form or by email to info@bellevue-zahnaerzte.ch.
Here are our upcoming dates:
- August 12, 2026, 7:00 p.m.
- November 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m.
We look forward to seeing you.
Registration for the All-on-4® Information Session