Why choose a partial denture for one tooth?
Removable partial dentures for one tooth are very popular for the healing phase right after an extraction. We call these one tooth temporary partials “flippers.” Flippers are a flexible partial denture with a gum colored flexible framework that holds a tooth. They fill the hole in your smile while you wait for the area to heal. They are primarily a cosmetic treatment although they do keep adjacent teeth from shifting.
The most memorable one that we’ve made was for a sweet lady who lost her front tooth in an accident the week before her son’s wedding. She was so happy to be able to smile normally for pictures. No one ever noticed that she’d lost her tooth!
Do you make permanent partial dentures for one tooth?
Permanent single tooth partials are more rare. Why? Because it is usually more cost effective for a patient with one one missing tooth to choose an implant or a bridge. When replacing several missing natural teeth, partials are always the less expensive option. But when it comes to a single tooth, other options are typically better for the same or less money.
That’s not to say that we’ve never made a permanent type of partial denture for one tooth. Occasionally we will meet a patient who really needs exactly that: a metal framework partial denture for one tooth. Choosing this dental restoration depends on a patient’s specific needs and the health of their surrounding teeth since they’re more of an exception when replacing a single missing tooth.
Why do some people need flippers and others fill the hole other ways?
Single tooth partials are most often used in the healing phase between a tooth extraction and implant placement. If some people get their implant on the extraction date, why do other people need a flipper? It depends on your oral health needs.
Some people’s mouths need a longer healing period after tooth loss. If the tooth had to surgically removed and took bone with it, your dentist probably won’t want to put an implant right away. If someone has deep infection, the dentist won’t want to put an implant at risk by putting it right in that infected spot. When there isn’t enough bone for an implant, a bone graft has to be done first and allowed to heal. It’s important to protect the bone around your supporting teeth during healing. A flipper prevents the remaining teeth from shifting and keeps your smile looking good while your mouth and bone heal. It can be a key part of insuring great results long term!
If you have a single missing tooth and need something to fill that spot, a flipper is quick to make and looks great. In fact, partial dentures can change your life. To find out if a partial denture with one tooth is right for you, come talk to Dr. Bec at a free consultation. Schedule today by calling or clicking the ONLINE BOOKING button at the top of this page!
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