The Pros And Cons Of Using A Flipper While Waiting For Dental Implant

The entire process of getting a dental implant can take over a year. For some, the procedure gets completed for much longer, especially when complications arise. If you’re getting this restorative dental solution, this means you’ll basically be going through a long time of looking rather odd because of a missing tooth or teeth.

This can become a challenge to your self-confidence, but not if you use a flipper while waiting for dental implant.

What is a dental flipper?

According to a trusted Prescott, AZ dentist, a dental flipper is a traditional solution to restoring a missing tooth and it’s a highly recommended provision for people who are waiting for their dental implant. The following are the removable types:

1. Removable dental flipper or retainer – This is very similar to the retainer worn by those who have had their orthodontic braces removed. However, it comes with a false tooth or teeth to fill in the space of a missing tooth or teeth.
2. Delineator – This is quite similar to the traditional retainer or removable dental flipper, but it’s made of a different material that is moderately pliable. This is not a widely available option because it’s only suitable for some people.
3. Essix style retainer – This looks like an Invisalign tray but with a tooth or teeth in it.
4. Snap-on smile – This covers multiple teeth and it looks like a removable bridge, which covers all of the front teeth.

Pros and Cons of Dental Flippers

All the different dental flipper options do the job of filling in the space created by a missing tooth so your mouth doesn’t look weird while you’re waiting for your dental implant. Plus, they can help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting during the long waiting period.

However, even this dental flipper option tends to look and feel differently in the mouth. Some are more comfortable than others (Essix can actually make you talk funny during the first few days of wearing them, while the delineators press on the gums). Also, some definitely look better than others. You have to factor in these differences when making a decision on which type to use.

In addition to those minor issues, creating the perfect match tends to be tricky for all of the options. Getting them to look natural is never easy.

It’s important to note that these are rather affordable solutions and they can be prepared and ready for you to use in just a matter of days so you won’t have to go around with a missing tooth. And remember, these are just temporary solutions, and when you get your dental implants, you’ll get the best teeth replacement.