How can I cover my missing teeth while waiting for a dental implant?

If you have a missing tooth and have chosen to get a dental implant–you’ve made a great choice! Dental implants are durable, long-lasting, and can restore both your smile and your confidence.

However, the process takes time. So, how long will you have to wait? And what can you do in the meantime to cover the gap? Fortunately, there are several temporary solutions for covering missing teeth while waiting for your implant.

Temporary Teeth Options

Partial Dentures

If you are missing multiple teeth, partial dentures may be a great option. These removable prosthetic teeth are held in place by adhesive or metal clasps. While they are an affordable choice, they are bulkier and less sturdy than other alternatives.

Flippers

A flipper is a removable acrylic option that replaces a single missing tooth. Flippers are affordable and comfortable to wear. However, flippers can’t replace multiple teeth and are not as durable as other options.

Crowns

In some cases, your dentist may place a temporary crown over the implant post while waiting for it to heal. This option looks very natural, though it requires thorough aftercare and often costs more. 

Temporary Bridge

Dental bridges attach fake teeth to neighboring teeth with a metal or acrylic structure. This option is very stable and can replace one or multiple teeth. However,  it is more costly and requires the alteration of neighboring teeth, which may not be ideal for those with weak or unhealthy teeth.

Conclusion

Getting dental implants can take a while, as all other oral health problems must be treated before receiving them. The screws that are placed into your jawbone also have to heal before your implant can be set. Though the timeline varies for each person, placing dental implants can take up to six months, which is why it is a good idea to understand what temporary teeth options are available.

Temporary teeth can easily restore your smile and ability to chew while you wait for a dental implant. Contact Hale Family Dentistry today to find the right option for you!