Losing a tooth (or teeth) can be a challenging experience. Whether it’s from decay, an accident, or disease, missing teeth affect more than just your smile. They can also impact your speech, how well you chew your food, and your overall oral health.
That’s where tooth replacement options come in. One temporary solution you may have heard about is called a flipper tooth, also known as a flipper denture or temporary acrylic partial denture. These removable appliances are designed to fill those gaps left by missing teeth.
This article will give you a complete overview of what flipper teeth are. We’ll explore the pros and cons, cost, alternative options, and how to care for them. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of what flipper teeth are, how they work, and if they might be the right choice for you.
What are flipper teeth, anyway?
Flipper teeth are removable, temporary false teeth that fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth. They’re a short-term fix while you’re deciding on a more permanent solution.
These teeth are usually made of acrylic resin attached to a pink plastic base that looks like your gums. The false tooth or teeth are attached to this base.
Flipper teeth are designed to:
- Improve your smile.
- Help with speech and chewing.
- Keep your remaining teeth from moving into the gap.
They’re called a “temporary” or “interim” solution because they’re often used while you’re waiting for something more permanent, like an implant, bridge, or partial denture.
Flipper teeth: The pros and cons
Like any dental device, flipper teeth have advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a look at some of the most common pros and cons of choosing a flipper.
Advantages of flipper teeth
- They’re relatively inexpensive. Compared to other tooth replacement options such as implants or bridges, flippers are easy on the budget.
- The turnaround time is quick. You can usually get a flipper within a week.
- They improve the appearance of your smile. Even though they’re temporary, flippers can make you feel more confident about your smile.
- They’re easy to use. Flippers are easy to pop in and out.
Disadvantages of flipper teeth
- They’re not a permanent solution. Flippers are a temporary fix. You’ll probably need to replace them at some point.
- They aren’t very durable. The lightweight acrylic they’re made from can break.
- They may not be comfortable. Some people find flippers bulky and uncomfortable. They may not fit as securely as other tooth replacement options.
- They don’t function as well as other options. Chewing may be more difficult with flippers than with other tooth replacement options.
Who is a good candidate for flipper teeth?
Flipper teeth are often used as a short-term fix. Here’s who might benefit from them:
- People waiting for a more permanent solution: If you’re planning on getting dental implants or a bridge, a flipper can fill the gap until then.
- People recovering from a tooth extraction: Flippers can be put in right away to keep your smile looking good while your gums heal.
- People on a budget: Flippers are less expensive than implants or bridges.
- Children with missing teeth: Flippers can be a temporary solution for kids who’ve lost teeth early.
- People missing one or two teeth: Flippers work best when you only need to replace a few teeth.
Flipper teeth vs. partial dentures
So, how do flipper teeth stack up against partial dentures?
The main difference between a flipper tooth and a partial denture is that partial dentures are designed to replace multiple missing teeth in the same dental arch. Unlike full dentures, partial dentures don’t replace the entire arch of teeth, but they can replace several teeth at once.
These appliances usually have a metal or acrylic framework with clasps that attach to existing teeth.
Flipper teeth, on the other hand, are typically used to replace just one or two missing teeth.
Flippers are usually made entirely of acrylic, while partial dentures can incorporate metal frameworks for added strength and stability, which means that partial dentures generally offer better stability and retention than flippers.
In general, flippers are a short-term, aesthetic solution, while partial dentures are a more functional and longer-lasting option when several teeth are missing.
How much do flipper teeth cost?
Flipper teeth usually cost between $300 and $1,000 per tooth.
The final price depends on a few things:
- How many teeth you need to replace
- Which materials your dentist uses
- Your dentist’s fees, and their location
Even with these factors, flippers are still more affordable than options like implants or bridges, which require surgery and more specialized materials.
How do I take care of flipper teeth?
Treat flipper teeth gently. Here’s how to clean and store them:
- Cleaning: Take the flipper out each night. Rinse it after every meal with lukewarm water. Once a day, gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner. Hot water can damage the material, so avoid that, and don’t press too hard while brushing.
- Storage: When you’re not wearing the flipper, keep it in water or a denture cleanser solution. This keeps it from drying out and potentially warping.
- Diet: Be careful about what you eat. Stay away from sticky, hard, or chewy foods. These can damage or dislodge the flipper.
- Dental visits: Even with flipper teeth, keep seeing your dentist for regular checkups. They can make sure the flipper still fits correctly and that your gums are healthy.
Summary
Flipper teeth are a temporary, relatively inexpensive way to replace missing teeth. They can improve your smile and help you maintain good oral health while you’re deciding on a more permanent solution.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, talk with your dentist to figure out whether a flipper is right for you. A dentist can help you weigh the pros and cons of a flipper versus other options.
Even though flippers aren’t meant to last forever, they can be a valuable tool for maintaining your smile and your self-esteem in the time between losing a tooth and getting a more permanent replacement.