I want Grillz But where do I start? Grillz 101

2pc 10k Grillz x 2pc tip plus extended fang, moissanite gap

2pc 10k Grillz x 2pc tip plus extended fang, moissanite gap

If you’re new to grillz, the “language” can be confusing

People say things like “6PC open face,” “diamond cut,” “bust down,” “VVS look,” or “two-tone,” and if you don’t live in this world, it can feel like everyone speaks a different language.

This guide breaks down the most common grillz terms in plain English—what they mean, what they typically look like, and what to ask for when you’re ready to order.

If you’re in Chicago and want help choosing a style, Jem Junkies offers in-person consults + impressions by appointment. jemjunkies.glossgenius.com

Quick basics: what are grillz? Grillz are removable custom dental jewelry—most commonly made in gold or silver—that fit over one or more teeth. They’re not the same as veneers or permanent dental work. A proper custom fit should feel secure and comfortable when worn correctly.

Part 1: Set sizes + how people describe “how many teeth”

Single / 1 tooth

A grill for one tooth—often a “statement tooth” (like a fang or a fully iced tooth).

2PC, 4PC, 6PC, 8PC, 10PC

This simply means the grill covers that number of teeth.

  • 2PC = 2 teeth

  • 4PC = 4 teeth

  • 6PC = 6 teeth (one of the most popular)

  • 8PC/10PC = bigger smile coverage and a more dramatic look

What it looks like: more pieces = more “front of smile” coverage on camera.

Top set / Bottom set / Full set

  • Top set: upper teeth only

  • Bottom set: lower teeth only

  • Full set: top + bottom combined

Half set

Usually means one row (top or bottom), or sometimes a smaller tooth count like a 4PC. People use this term loosely—so always confirm the exact tooth numbers.

Adjacent teeth vs split set

  • Adjacent: all covered teeth are next to each other (like 4 front teeth in a row)

  • Split set: teeth are separated (example: 2 teeth on the left + 2 teeth on the right)

Why it matters: split sets can affect design, comfort, and pricing because they’re often made/fit as separate pieces.

Part 2: Style terms that describe the look

Open face

A grill that covers the tooth but leaves the front surface open (so you see your natural tooth showing through the opening).

What it looks like: clean outline / frame look; popular for minimal or modern styles.

Good for: lighter feel, a sleek look, and people who want “grill vibes” without full coverage.

Closed face

A grill that fully covers the front of the tooth/teeth.

What it looks like: solid metal coverage (or metal + stones) across the front.

Good for: bold looks, diamond cuts, stone settings, and designs that need full surface space.

Diamond cut

A cut/textured finish in the metal to reflect light.

What it looks like: sparkly metal even without stones—great under flash, club lighting, and photos.

Good for: people who want shine without a full “iced out” look.

Two-tone

A grill that uses two different metal colors (example: yellow gold + white gold/silver look).

What it looks like: contrast details, borders, letters, or sections in a different tone.

Fangs

Pointed tooth shape—usually on canines.

What it looks like: vampire-style tips or sharper profile.

Tip: confirm if you want “subtle fangs” vs “dramatic fangs.”

Windows / Cut-outs

Sections of the grill are cut out intentionally for style.

What it looks like: negative space designs (can be letters, shapes, or patterns).

Ask for: “Where do you want the cut-outs?” + “Do you want smooth edges?” (comfort matters)

Drip

A design where metal appears to “drip” down from the tooth line.

What it looks like: a melted/dripping effect, usually decorative.

Part 3: Metals + what 10K / 14K / 18K means

10K gold

A durable, popular option for grillz.

14K gold

Often a balance between richness of color and durability.

18K gold

Richer yellow color, typically softer than lower karats.

Important note: karat affects color, durability, and cost. If you’re hard on jewelry or want something more “daily-wear friendly,” ask what karat is best for your lifestyle.

Silver

A clean, bright look and often a more accessible starting point.

What to know: silver can tarnish over time (normal for silver), and regular cleaning/storage helps keep it looking fresh.

Gold plated / vermeil

These are coating-based options. They can look great, but the finish can wear down depending on use and care.

Part 4: Stones + “iced out” language

Iced out / Bust down

Means the grill has stones—sometimes fully covered, sometimes partially.

What it looks like: high sparkle, camera-friendly shine.

CZ (Cubic Zirconia)

A popular stone choice that gives a strong “diamond look” visually at a lower cost.

Moissanite

Known for strong sparkle and a “high shine” look.

Diamond

Natural or lab diamonds can be used depending on the design and budget.

Best practice: instead of arguing stone names online, ask for a visual reference and confirm stone type in your quote.

Pavé

Lots of small stones set close together.

What it looks like: a “sparkle blanket” effect across the surface.

Prong set

Stones are held by little metal prongs.

What it looks like: each stone looks more “separate” and dimensional.

Channel set

Stones sit in channels, often in rows.

What it looks like: clean lines of stones—more sleek and structured.

Part 5: Fit + comfort terms (what you should know)

Custom fit

Made from your impressions/scan so the piece matches your teeth shape.

Snug vs tight

  • Snug: secure and comfortable

  • Too tight: pinching, pain, or pressure that doesn’t ease quickly

If anything feels painful or unsafe, stop wearing it and contact your grill maker for next steps.

Bite check / Occlusion

This is about whether your top and bottom teeth come together naturally while wearing your grillz.

Why it matters: a good design should consider your bite so it doesn’t feel “off” when you talk or close your mouth.

Part 6: The process terms (how ordering works)

Impressions

A mold of your teeth used to create your grillz.

Digital scan

A 3D scan used for precision fit (depending on the studio setup).

Turnaround time

How long production takes after your order is confirmed.

(Jem Junkies note: add your typical turnaround here, like “4–6 weeks,” if that’s still your standard.)

What to say when you’re ready to order (copy/paste)

Here’s a simple way to describe what you want:

“I want a top 6PC in 10K yellow gold, open face, with a diamond cut finish. I want it adjacent (front teeth in a row). No stones.”

Or:

“I want a 2PC on my canines as extended fang tips, silver, with CZ stones in a prong set.”

The more specific you are, the faster you’ll get an accurate quote.

FAQ (great for Google + featured snippets)

Do people say “grillz” or “grills”?
Both. “Grillz” is the common spelling in jewelry culture, but people type “grills” on Google all the time—so you’ll see both.

Do grillz mess up your teeth?
A properly made custom piece worn as directed is meant to fit safely, but everyone’s mouth is different. If you feel pain, pressure, gum irritation, or your bite feels off, stop wearing them and get guidance from your provider (and a dental professional if needed).

What’s the best grillz style for beginners?
Many first-timers start with a 2PC or 4PC, often open face or diamond cut—it gives a clean look without being too heavy.

What’s the difference between open face and closed face?
Open face leaves part of the tooth showing through; closed face fully covers the front surface.

Ready for a Chicago grillz consult?

If you’re in Chicago and want help choosing a style, Jem Junkies offers consults and impressions by appointment.

Book here: jemjunkies.glossgenius.com
📍 Location:2150 S Canalport Ave
📩 Questions?infor@jemjunkies.com

3pc 10k gold grillz, open, closed, open with zodiac signs

3pc 10k gold grillz, open, closed, open with zodiac signs

2pc 10k Moissanite Tip, open face fang with, Single Tooth gem

2pc 10k Moissanite Tip, open face fang with, Single Tooth gem

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How Much Do Custom Grillz Cost in Chicago? Pricing, Process & What to Expect