From Flipper Teeth to Dental Implants: When To Make the Switch

Flipper teeth are removable dental appliances that can quickly replace missing teeth. On the other hand, dental implants permanently replace tooth roots to support long-term, irremovable tooth replacements. While flipper teeth can address immediate concerns, dental implants provide a more natural and lasting tooth replacement that supports oral health, jawbone strength, and facial appearance. Knowing when to make the switch from flipper teeth to dental implants starts with recognizing the common signs that it may be time.

Teeth replacements: Flipper teeth vs. dental implants

Since flipper teeth are partially removable dentures, they have some drawbacks. Their gum-colored base and acrylic resin false teeth do not provide the most natural-looking smile restoration upon inspection. Further, they must be removed at night and adjusted almost yearly to maintain a proper fit. This is because flipper teeth do not engage the jawbone, which can cause it to deteriorate and alter how the appliance fits in the mouth. The face may also appear shrunken as a result of these changes.

However, dental implants offer a more permanent and stable solution. The periodontist places them within the jawbone so that they can fuse with it. That way, they become secure, functional artificial tooth roots. Depending on the number and location of the missing teeth, the periodontist will cement dental crowns, a dental bridge, or a permanent denture that closely matches the appearance and durability of the patient’s missing natural teeth.

If the patient cares for dental implants properly, they can last a lifetime. Moreover, the tooth replacements cemented on top can typically last at least a decade before they need to be replaced. And unlike flipper teeth, dental implants keep the jawbone strong through regular engagement. As such, the patient can avoid a shrinking jawbone and changing face shape.

Signs to switch to dental implants

The most common sign that it may be time to switch to dental implants is if the patient wants a more natural-feeling and looking smile restoration than flipper teeth. Alternatively, they may want to avoid changes to their jawbone, gums, or face shape. If the patient needs frequent adjustments, these changes may have already started to occur, and switching to dental implants can slow their progression.

Other common signs to make the switch to dental implants include the following:

• Feeling tired of the nightly maintenance and adjustments that come with flipper teeth
• The flipper teeth have started to feel uncomfortable or bulky in the mouth
• The patient is allergic, even mildly, to the materials of their current appliance

A periodontist can determine whether a patient is a good candidate for dental implants. The patient must have enough jawbone density to support the dental implant. In addition, they must be committed to undergoing a lengthy recovery process, as it could take several months for the dental implants to fuse with the bone.