If you’ve lost teeth or had bone loss, you may have seen gaps between the gumline and new implant teeth. “Fake gums” are the pink material added to implant restorations to replace missing soft tissue and restore a natural look. This article explains what fake gums are, the types used with implants, when they’re recommended, their pros and cons, how to care for them, costs and financing near Oklahoma City, and how to choose a provider for fake gums in Oklahoma City.
What are “fake gums” for dental implants?
Fake gums (also called prosthetic gingiva) are the pink parts of an implant restoration that mimic your natural gum tissue. They are distinct from implant crowns or bridges, which replace tooth structure. Technicians add fake gums when bone or soft tissue has receded after long-term tooth loss, or when a full-arch prosthesis needs extra pink material to support the lips and cheeks. The goal is a seamless, lifelike transition from tooth to gum.
Types of fake gums used with implants
Porcelain or composite gingival build-ups
Porcelain or composite layers are matched to your gum color and shaped to mimic natural anatomy. They are durable and highly aesthetic, often used for fixed crowns and bridges where a natural look is a priority.
Acrylic / PMMA prosthetic gingiva
Acrylic (PMMA) is common in removable or hybrid prostheses, such as All-on-4®. It’s easier and less costly to repair and can be polished to a natural sheen. Acrylic can wear over time and may need periodic maintenance.
Soft-tissue grafts versus prosthetic gums
A gum graft is a surgical, biological fix that rebuilds your own tissue. Fake gums are a prosthetic option when surgery isn’t possible, when patients want quicker results, or when bone loss is too severe for predictable grafting alone.
When are fake gums recommended?
Fake gums near Oklahoma City are often recommended after long-term tooth loss with bone shrinkage, for full-arch restorations where lip and cheek support is needed, or when esthetic demands require pink porcelain or acrylic. They let patients avoid complex bone grafting in some cases while still achieving a natural-looking smile and facial support.
Pros and cons of using fake gums
Benefits: improved esthetics, restored facial support, and predictable lab control over shape and color. Drawbacks: possible food trapping if margins aren’t ideal, need for periodic repairs or relines, and slightly different daily hygiene tools and routines compared to natural gums.
How to care for implants with fake gums
Use floss threaders, interdental brushes, and antimicrobial rinses to clean around prosthetic gum margins. Regular professional cleanings and checkups are essential to prevent peri-implant disease and to monitor prosthetic fit. Maintain any removable parts as instructed by your dentist.
Costs, insurance, and financing for fake gums near Oklahoma City
Costs, insurance, and financing for fake gums near Oklahoma City vary by material, lab work, number of units, and implant surgery. Porcelain options cost more than acrylic. Insurance coverage varies and may cover parts of the treatment. Many practices near Oklahoma City offer third-party financing (CareCredit, Cherry, Proceed Finance) to make treatment more affordable.
Choosing a provider for fake gums in Oklahoma City
Look for providers with implant experience, digital planning, clear before/after photos, and lab partnerships. Dentistry By Design, a Midwest City practice near Oklahoma City, offers digital implant planning, All-on-4®, CEREC® same-day restorations, sedation options, and patient-focused care to help you understand choices and expected outcomes.
Next steps / Call to action
If you’re considering fake gums near Oklahoma City, schedule a consultation for a digital exam and treatment plan. A visit can show realistic outcomes and available financing and sedation options to make your restoration comfortable and affordable.
