What Is Fake Teeth Called? Types, Costs, & Options

If you’ve ever asked “what are fake teeth” or searched “what is fake teeth called,” this short guide will help. You’ll get clear definitions, common names, the main types, typical costs, pros and cons, and how to pick the right option. If you’re searching for “what are fake teeth in St. Louis,” you’ll also find how local implant technology and providers can affect choices and outcomes.

What Are Fake Teeth?

Fake teeth are artificial replacements for missing or damaged natural teeth. They restore chewing, speech, and appearance. Options range from removable dentures to permanent implants. When people ask what are fake teeth, they usually mean any prosthetic that takes the place of a natural tooth.

Are Fake Teeth Dental Implants?

Not always. Dental implants are one type of fake teeth: a titanium post placed in the jaw that holds a crown, bridge, or denture. Other fake teeth, like dentures or flippers, sit on the gums and are removable. So implants are fake teeth, but fake teeth are not always implants.

What Is Fake Teeth Called? Common Names

Here are common terms people hear and simple differences to know:

• Dentures — Full or partial removable sets that replace many teeth.
• Dental Implants — Metal posts in the bone that support crowns or dentures.
• Crowns — Caps for single damaged teeth.
• Bridges — Fixed replacements that span a gap using adjacent teeth or implants.
• Veneers — Thin covers for front teeth for cosmetic change (not full replacements).
• Partials — Removable sections that fill several missing teeth.
• Flippers — Temporary, low-cost removable partials.
• Implant-Supported Prostheses — Dentures or bridges anchored to implants for better stability.

Types Of Fake Teeth — Quick Overview

Dentures (Full & Partial)

Removable prosthetics that replace many or all teeth. Pros: lower cost and no surgery. Cons: less chewing power, can shift, and often need relines or replacements.

Dental Implants

Titanium posts fused to bone with crowns or dentures attached. Pros: high stability, natural feel, long lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and need adequate bone or grafting.

Implant-Supported Bridges & Dentures

Implants anchor bridges or dentures for better chewing and fit. These blend benefits of implants with larger restorations for multiple missing teeth.

Crowns & Bridges (Fixed)

Crowns cap a damaged tooth; bridges replace one or a few missing teeth by attaching to nearby teeth or implants. They are fixed and feel more natural than removable options.

Veneers & Cosmetic Options

Thin shells bonded to front teeth to improve color and shape. They change appearance but do not replace missing teeth unless combined with other treatments.

Temporary Options (Flippers, Immediate Dentures)

Short-term solutions used after extractions or while waiting for permanent restorations. Cheap and quick but not made for long-term use.

What These Options Typically Cost

Costs vary widely by region, materials, and clinician skill. Typical U.S. ranges:

• Dentures (full): $600–$3,000 per arch
• Partial dentures: $700–$2,500
• Single dental implant with crown: $2,000–$6,000
• Implant-supported denture (per arch): $7,000–$30,000+
• Bridge (per tooth replaced): $1,500–$5,000
• Veneer: $800–$2,500 each

Implants cost more up front but often last decades. Dentures and flippers cost less but may need replacement or repair over time. If you’re asking what are fake teeth in St. Louis, local pricing may tilt higher or lower depending on technology and lab costs.

Factors That Change Price

• Number of teeth replaced
• Need for bone grafts or sinus lifts
• 3D imaging and guided surgery fees
• Materials (zirconia, porcelain, acrylic)
• On-site lab vs. outsourced lab costs

Insurance, Financing, And Affordability

Many insurers cover parts of dentures, crowns, or bridges but often limit implant coverage. Clinics offer financing, low-interest plans, or in-house payment options. Get a written estimate, ask about lab fees, and avoid clinicians who pressure you into unnecessary treatments.

How To Choose: Which Fake Teeth Option Is Right For You

Decide based on budget, oral health, how many teeth are missing, chewing needs, and long-term goals. Implants suit people wanting long-term stability; dentures fit those on tighter budgets or with medical limits.

Questions To Ask Your Dentist

• What is the expected lifespan of this option?
• What maintenance is required?
• Will I need bone grafts or extra surgery?
• Who handles repairs and follow-up care?
• What foods should I avoid?

Caring For Fake Teeth

Daily care keeps prosthetics healthy. For dentures: clean with a denture brush, soak overnight, and rinse before wearing. For implant crowns and bridges: brush twice daily, floss or use interdental brushes, and use anti-bacterial mouthwash as directed. See your dentist for regular check-ups and report soreness, looseness, bad odor, or changes in fit.

New You Smile — Implant Options & Why Patients Choose Us

At New You Smile in St. Louis, we focus on implant dentistry using on-site labs, 3D imaging, and guided surgery. These tools let us plan precisely and make restorations that fit and look natural. Our All-on-X and full-mouth solutions aim for predictable function and faster turnaround times with tighter quality control.

Meet Dr. James Fetsch

Dr. James Fetsch has over 20 years of experience and nearly 30,000 implants placed. He holds Fellowships with the Academy of General Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He uses 3D imaging, guided surgery, and sedation to deliver comfortable, predictable implant care.

Next Steps / Call To Action — Start Your Smile Journey

Ready to learn which fake teeth option fits your life? Book a consultation to review options, get a personalized plan, and compare costs. Bring a list of medications, any recent dental records or X-rays, and photos of your smile if available.

• Phone or online booking — schedule a consult with our implant team.
• Bring meds, previous dental records, and smile photos to the first visit.

Discover which solution answers “what are fake teeth in St. Louis” for you, and take the first step toward a confident, functional smile.