What Are FP1, FP2, and FP3 Prostheses?
If you’re researching dental implants in Dallas–Fort Worth, you may have come across the terms FP1, FP2, and FP3 prostheses. These describe different types of full-arch dental implant restorations. The right one for you depends on how much gum and bone tissue has been lost and what your smile goals are.
FP1 Prosthesis: Restoring Only the Teeth
- Definition: Replaces just the crown part of the tooth (no pink).
- Look: Most natural esthetic result — teeth emerge directly from the gums.
- Best For:
- Patients with minimal gum or bone loss (have most or all of their bone).
- Healthy gum contours.
- High esthetic expectations.
FP2 Prosthesis: Longer Crowns for Gum/Bone Loss
- Definition: Replaces the teeth with longer crown contours to make up for tissue loss.
- Look: Teeth appear longer; less esthetic if gums show when smiling.
- Best For:
- Patients with moderate bone or gum recession.
- Those who want to avoid grafting.
- Patients preferring slightly longer teeth to a prothesis w ith pink AND white.
FP3 Prosthesis: Replacing Teeth and Gums
- Definition: Restores both the teeth and missing gum tissue using pink zirconia, ceramic, or acrylic.
- Look: Natural appearance by recreating teeth and gums — ideal for severe bone loss.
- Best For:
- Patients with extreme bone and tissue loss (already missing most of their bone).
- Full-arch implant restorations (e.g., All-on-4®, Teeth in a Day).
- Denture wearers transitioning to implants and fixed prostheses.
How to Choose Between FP1, FP2, and FP3
When deciding on a dental implant prosthesis, your prosthodontist will consider:
- Existing bone and gum volume
- Smile line and esthetic goals
- Facial support needs
- Treatment preferences and budget
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — FP1, FP2, and FP3 are simply different tools to restore a healthy, confident smile.
Dental Implants in Dallas–Fort Worth
At our practice, we specialize in advanced dental implant treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you’re a candidate for FP1, FP2, or FP3, our goal is to restore both function and esthetics so you can smile, eat, and live with confidence. The majority of patients seeking these types of prostheses present with some or most of their teeth before beginning treatment. Because of this, we do far more FP1 and FP2s than FP3s, but even with an FP3, there is one very important thing to understand before deciding where to have this done: The way the prosthesis is designed at the junction where the prosthesis meets the patient’s gums is critically important to the end result. Even with a lot of bone loos and tissue shrinkage, it is important that the prosthesis is designed to be convex where it meets the gums, NOT concave. Most offices design these in a more concave manner, trapping food, plaque and debris underneath and making it impossible to clean thoroughly. So, the prosthesis should be fabricated to fit up into the gums on the implants, not over them, like a saddle. In our Gallery, we have many cases to view to see the differences between an FP1, FP2 and an FP3.
Frequently Asked Questions About FP1, FP2, and FP3 Dental Prostheses
What does FP stand for in dental implants?
FP stands for “Fixed Prosthesis.” An FP prosthesis is a non-removable implant restoration designed to permanently replace missing teeth.
Which is better: FP1, FP2, or FP3?
This depends on the patient’s existing bone and gum levels when they come in for treatment. FP1 is ideal for patients with most or all of their bone and healthy gums, FP2 works when moderate tissue loss exists, and FP3 is best for severe gum and bone loss. The right choice depends on your individual needs and the condition and amount of bone you start with.
Do all Implant Centers offer FP1, FP2 AND FP3?
MOST offices that offer full arch or full mouth implant treatments EXCLUSIVELY DO ONLY FP3 bridges, because they’re easier and more predictable. Another important reason is that FP1 and FP2 bridges are much more technically demanding, and many dentists lack the experience and skill to provide them. Patients are often steered toward FP3 because it’s faster, less expensive, and requires fewer visits. However, FP1 and FP2 may be more appropriate for some patients, even though they take more time, cost more, and require greater precision. At our practice, all treatment is performed under one roof by our team, ensuring accuracy, communication, and optimal outcomes.
Are FP3 prostheses the same as All-on-4® implants?
Not exactly. All-on-4® is a trademarked name for an FP3 prosthesis using four implants with angled placement and bone removal. An FP3 can also be done with straight, parallel implants without removing bone. This approach helps avoid long-term problems like exposed implants. Both are FP3 with pink material, but the protocols differ significantly. In our practice, we do FP3 bridges but NOT the All-on-4®. We have seen better long-term results with parallel implants placed in natural root positions, without unnecessary bone removal.
Can FP1 or FP2 look natural if I’ve had gum recession?
In cases of mild gum recession, FP1 or FP2 can still look natural. But when bone and gum loss is severe, these options may not achieve the best esthetic outcome. In such cases, FP3 is usually recommended.
How long do FP1, FP2, and FP3 prostheses last?
With proper care, dental implant prostheses can last 20+ years, and the implants themselves can last decades. Longevity depends on patient habits, oral hygiene, and regular checkups.
🦷 Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Whether you need to replace just your teeth, or both teeth and gums, our expert prosthodontist team will help you choose the right solution — FP1, FP2, or FP3. With advanced training and years of experience in dental implants in Dallas–Fort Worth, we create smiles that look natural and last for decades.
📅 Schedule your consultation today and find out which dental implant prosthesis is right for you.
