If you’ve ever wondered “what is fake teeth called,” this guide will clear it up. We’ll list the common names people use, explain the difference between removable and fixed options, show why dental implants are different, outline who makes a good candidate, and tell you when to see a specialist. Read on to learn the basics so you can choose the right solution for chewing, smiling, and long-term oral health.
Common Names: What Is Fake Teeth Called?
Dentures — Full sets that replace all teeth in an arch. Partial dentures — Removable pieces that fill gaps when some natural teeth remain. Bridges — Fixed restorations that span a gap using adjacent teeth for support. Crowns — Caps that cover and protect damaged or root-treated teeth. Veneers — Thin shells bonded to front teeth for cosmetic changes, not full replacements. Dental implants — Metal posts placed in the jaw that support crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Removable Options: Dentures & Partial Dentures
Full dentures replace all upper or lower teeth and rest on the gums. Partial dentures clip to remaining teeth. Removable options are generally less expensive and noninvasive, making them good short-term or budget choices. Downsides include changes in fit over time, less biting power, possible soreness, and daily cleaning. They need adjustments or relines as the mouth changes.
Fixed Options: Bridges, Crowns, and Veneers
Bridges replace one or more missing teeth by attaching to nearby teeth or implants. Crowns protect weak or broken teeth and restore shape and function. Veneers are cosmetic and only cover the front surface. Fixed restorations stay in the mouth and feel more stable than removable teeth, but bridges require altering adjacent teeth and crowns need a healthy tooth to support them.
Dental Implants: The Closest Thing To Natural Teeth
A dental implant has three parts: the implant post (a titanium root placed in bone), the abutment (connector), and the crown (the visible tooth). Implants fuse with bone, so they act and feel like natural teeth and preserve jawbone. You can get single-tooth implants, implant-supported bridges, or implant-retained dentures for full-arch replacement with far better function than traditional dentures.
Advanced Implant Types For Little Or No Bone
For patients told they “have no bone,” other options exist: zygomatic implants anchor in cheekbone, pterygoid implants use back jaw bone, transsinus implants cross the sinus, and subperiosteal implants sit on top of bone under the gum. These techniques let many people get fixed teeth without bone grafts.
How To Choose: Cost, Longevity, And Daily Care
Dentures often cost the least but may last 5–10 years with maintenance. Bridges and crowns last 10–15 years on average. Implants are more expensive upfront but can last decades with good care. Candidates depend on bone health, overall medical conditions, smoking, and oral hygiene. Clean dentures daily; brush and floss fixed teeth and implants; keep regular dental visits.
When To See A Specialist For Implants
See an implant specialist if you have severe bone loss, failed implants, or need full-arch reconstruction. Specialists offer advanced planning, complex placements, and options for people others told were not candidates.
About Dr. Michael Fioritto — Board-Certified Implant Specialist
Dr. Michael Fioritto is one of about nine board-certified implant specialists in Ohio. He uses facial, intraoral, and photogrammetry scanners and a fully digital All-on-X workflow. Dr. Fioritto places advanced implants for patients told they have no bone and teaches local dentists and labs.
Next Steps: Free Consultations, CT Scans, And Scheduling
We offer free consultations and CT scans to review your options. Out-of-state patients can meet the day before surgery and return home the next day, with follow-up care coordinated with their referring dentist. Schedule a consult to see which “fake teeth” option fits your needs and lifestyle.
