What is a Flipper Tooth?

Missing a tooth? Filling the gap is crucial to prevent drifting, jawbone recession, and to give you a complete smile. One option is a flipper tooth. It’s a removable retainer that fits onto the roof of your mouth or sits on the lower jaw. One or more prosthetic teeth are attached to the device.

A flipper tooth is a temporary partial denture. It’s customised to each individual and requires an impression of your mouth. The tooth fits perfectly inside your mouth and is usually made from acrylic dental-grade resin.

This prosthetic is a viable option if you’re missing one or more teeth. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a Flipper Tooth?

A flipper tooth (or tooth flipper) is a removable partial denture that’s used to replace any missing tooth or teeth. If there’s only one tooth missing, the flipper tooth can resemble either a single tooth with clasps on either side or a large acrylic piece. For more than one tooth, the denture is usually much bigger with multiple clasps to hold it in place.

Replacing missing teeth is vital. When a tooth is removed, the gums and bone beneath begin to remodel. The jawbone itself can retract, causing the surrounding teeth to drift into the gap.

Unless a replacement tooth is placed into the gap, this is inevitable. Flipper teeth prevent this complication.

Cost of a Flipper Tooth

A flipper tooth is one of the most affordable options. It’s usually not a permanent solution, serving as a temporary replacement between tooth removal and a tooth bridge or implant. It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and simple to make.

In the UK, the private cost of a flipper tooth is:

NHS rarely offers flippers as they’re considered temporary. If available, it would fall under Band 3: £306.80 (as of 2025).

In the EU, the costs vary significantly between countries. Eastern European prices are generally much cheaper, making it a popular destination for health tourism. Average price in Poland, for example, is around €100 – €200 per tooth, whereas in Germany and France the price is closer to €500.

Most EU countries cover part of the cost under public health insurance. However, this depends on your coverage.

Pros and Cons of a Flipper Tooth

Deciding whether a flipper tooth is right for you requires an in-depth conversation with your dentist. There’s no right or wrong answer. It’s important to remember that a flipper tooth is a temporary measure in most people.

While it can forestall the risks of a missing tooth, it’s not as comfortable or reliable as other options like a tooth bridge or implant. Consider these advantages and disadvantages:

Pros of a Flipper Tooth

Flipper teeth are a safe and effective option for most people in need of a quick, affordable replacement. Other benefits include:

☑ Affordable solution. Flippers are one of the most cost-effective ways to replace missing teeth.

☑ Natural appearance. Designed to blend in with your existing teeth for a discreet, confident smile.

☑ Fast turnaround. Can usually be made and fitted shortly after your dental impression is taken.

☑ Easy to wear and remove. Simply pop it in and out—no adhesives or complex fittings needed.

☑ Prevents tooth movement. Helps keep surrounding teeth from shifting into the empty space.

Cons of a Flipper Tooth

Flipper teeth might fill in the gaps in your smile but they’re not perfect. If you’re considering this option, it’s crucial to weigh up the risk. Here are some notable downsides:

⮽ Limited durability. Made from lightweight acrylic that can crack or break with wear.

⮽ Initial discomfort. May feel awkward or bulky at first, especially when eating or speaking.

⮽ Risk of allergic reaction. Some patients may react to the materials used in the flipper.

⮽ Requires strict hygiene. Poor cleaning can lead to gum disease or decay beneath the prosthetic.

⮽ Possible gum recession. Reduced saliva flow under the flipper may affect gum health over time.

⮽ May loosen over time. The fit can weaken and may require periodic adjustment by your dentist.

Should You Get a Flipper Tooth?

That depends. Flipper teeth are a highly effective option for a short-term tooth replacement. If you’ve lost a tooth to decay or infection, you cannot have an implant or dental bridge immediately. It takes time for your gums to heal.

In such cases, a flipper tooth allows you to eat and smile without issue. However, it’s not a viable long-term solution.

If left in for a prolonged period of time, the flipper tooth can cause damage and discomfort. The plastic often rubs against the roof or base of the mouth. It can also make it difficult to eat.

You’re a good candidate for a flipper tooth if:

· You’re missing one or a few permanent teeth.

· You’re waiting for a permanent solution, e.g., a bridge or an implant.

· You’re unable to afford a permanent option like implants or crowns.

· You’ve got good oral health, including healthy gums and surrounding teeth.

· You’re after a quick fix that can rapidly replace your missing tooth.

· You’re not ready for surgery.

Alternatives to a Flipper Tooth

If you’re missing one or more teeth, several options exist to replace your tooth – both temporary and permanent. Flipper teeth are primarily a temporary fix.

Temporary Options

Temporary tooth replacements are generally cheaper than permanent fixes. Despite being termed “temporary,” these options can become permanent in some situations, e.g., unable to afford the other option. These are the main alternatives to a flipper tooth:

· Fixed partial denture. These dentures clip onto your existing teeth and rely on your other teeth being healthy and strong. Unlike a flipper tooth, these dentures aren’t easily removable. They’re fixed in place with clasps and wings.

· Snap-on-smile. A custom-made partial denture that fits over your existing teeth. It slots over the gums without covering the palate. Less functional and secure than a flipper tooth.

Permanent Options

Often, people who have a flipper tooth eventually get a permanent solution. These options are permanent in the sense that they provide lasting relief. However, they may need to be replaced after several years.

The options include:

· Dental bridges. Here, a prosthetic tooth (known as a pontic) is placed into the gap. It is held in place on either side by two crowns, which are cemented into place. This bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on its upkeep. It’s more affordable than an implant, but it carries greater long-term risks.

· Dental implant. The prosthetic tooth is held in place by a screw that attaches directly to the jawbone. This permanent option is extremely long-lasting and durable. It’s currently the gold standard and is the most expensive solution.

Taking Care of a Flipper Tooth

A flipper tooth is a simple yet effective replacement for a missing tooth. However, it requires upkeep and maintenance to reduce any risks. Like anything in your mouth, it must be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Otherwise, bacteria, plaque, and food debris can begin to degrade the device.

Here’s how to look after your flipper tooth:

· Scrub it gently. Each day, remove your flipper tooth and gently scrub it with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use warm water and mild soap (e.g., hand soap or dishwashing liquid) to disinfect all sides. Ensure you get into all the crevices. Avoid using toothpaste to clean, as it can damage the prosthetic.

· Store the flipper tooth in water. The flipper tooth is designed for a moist environment. Prevent it from drying out – and thus breaking – by soaking the tooth in water when you’re not using it. This will ensure it stays soft and supple.

· Avoid playing with the flipper tooth. It’s tempting to play with the flipper tooth in your mouth. Your tongue naturally wants to move it around. Doing so, however, can loosen it. If it becomes loose or feels uncomfortable, speak to your dentist about an adjustment.

· Limit your intake of certain foods. Reduce your intake of dark-coloured foods and beverages, like coffee, cranberry juice, or beets, as these can stain the tooth and acrylic. You will notice a significant difference in your smile.

Lastly, you’ll need to see your dentist regularly. Taking care of your overall oral health is crucial to prevent further tooth loss. You need to brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and use interdental brushes to get the plaque and bacteria hiding between your teeth.

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