Dental Flipper

Missing a tooth — even just one front tooth — can change how you look, speak, and feel about your smile. A dental flipper, sometimes called a flipper tooth or flipper denture, can help you feel confident again — whether you’re waiting for a more permanent solution like an implant or bridge, or you choose to keep your flipper long-term by having it relined. At Affordable Dental, we offer flippers for teeth at our multiple locations in Charlestown, Newcastle, and Parramatta in Sydney, as well as Phillip in Canberra, ACT. If you’re thinking about a flipper for teeth, this page has everything you need to know — from what a tooth flipper is to how flipper dentures work and how much a flipper tooth might cost.

Dental Flipper Available Near You

Find Out Where You Can Visit Us for Affordable and Professional Dental Care

Parramatta, Sydney

Our Parramatta clinic is popular among locals and patients from North Parramatta, Westmead, Harris Park, Mays Hill, Granville, Rosehill, Rydalmere, Oatlands, Northmead, and beyond.

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Charlestown, Newcastle

Serving not just Charlestown, but also Adamstown Heights, Highfields, Kahibah, Whitebridge, Gateshead, Mount Hutton, Hillsborough, Kotara South, Garden Suburb, and other Newcastle communities.

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Phillip, Canberra

Apart from Phillip, Woden Valley, many patients visit us from Chifley, Curtin, Garran, Hughes, Lyons, Mawson, O’Malley, and Pearce, Farrer, Isaacs, Torrens as well as other areas across Canberra.

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Flipper Tooth Cost

As for the cost of a dental flipper, it can vary based on the type, materials, or complexity of your flipper denture, but it’s usually between $900 and $1,100. Keep in mind this is just an estimate — whether you need a flipper for teeth to replace a front tooth or you’re comparing flipper dentures with other options, the best way to know your exact flipper tooth cost is to book a free denture consultation with our team.

We welcome all health funds and offer flexible payment options, including instalment plans. Eligible patients may also access their superannuation to help with costs.
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What Is a Dental Flipper?

A dental flipper, also known as a flipper tooth or lightweight acrylic partial denture, is a removable appliance that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. While often used as a temporary solution, it can be relined and worn long-term for some patients. It’s custom-made to fit your mouth, so you can maintain a natural-looking smile while you heal or plan your next steps.

How a Dental Flipper Works

A dental flipper works much like a retainer, but with a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) attached to a gum-coloured acrylic base. It fits snugly against your gums or palate and stays in place by gently clipping around your existing teeth.

The process is straightforward:

Your dentist takes a detailed impression of your mouth.
This impression is sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians create a flipper that matches the shape and shade of your natural teeth.
Once it’s ready, we check the fit in your mouth and make any adjustments needed to ensure it’s comfortable and easy to wear.

A flipper is designed to be easy to pop in and out, so you can remove it for cleaning and at night if your dentist recommends it.

Benefits of Choosing a Dental Flipper

A dental flipper offers many practical advantages for people needing a temporary tooth replacement:

Quick Solution:

Flippers can often be ready in a short time frame, so you won’t need to go without a tooth for long.

Affordable Option:

Flippers for teeth are one of the most cost-effective ways to restore your smile compared to other prosthetic choices.

Natural Appearance:

A well-made flipper blends in with your existing teeth and gums, helping you feel more confident when talking or smiling.

Lightweight and Easy to Wear:

They’re designed to be comfortable and easy to get used to.

Helps Maintain Tooth Alignment:

Filling the gap with a flipper helps prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place, which can protect your overall bite and oral health.

Limitations and Considerations

While dental flippers are an excellent temporary fix for many patients, they do come with a few limitations worth keeping in mind.

Durability:
Flippers are made from lightweight acrylic, which means they’re more prone to cracking or breaking than more permanent options like implants or bridges. With proper care and occasional relining, some patients do use a flipper for the long term — though it’s still not as strong or durable as a partial denture with a metal framework.

Comfort:
It can take a little time to get used to wearing a flipper tooth. Some people find they feel slightly bulky at first, which can affect speaking or eating until you adapt. If it ever feels painful or rubs against your gums, we can adjust it for a better fit.

Maintenance:
Good hygiene is essential. A flipper needs to be cleaned daily to prevent plaque build-up, odours or gum irritation. You’ll need to handle it gently and store it properly when it’s not in your mouth.

nderstanding these points will help you decide if a dental flipper suits you — whether as a short-term fix or a longer option if you prefer no metal clasps.

Caring for Your Dental Flipper

Looking after your flipper tooth properly will help it last longer and keep your mouth healthy. Here are a few simple care tips we share with our patients at Affordable Dental:

Clean it daily:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch the acrylic.

Handle with care:

Always remove your flipper over a soft surface or basin of water to avoid accidental drops.

Keep it moist:

When not wearing your flipper, store it in a denture soak or water so it doesn’t dry out or warp.

Regular check-ups:

See your dentist if it ever feels loose, uncomfortable, or if you notice any damage. We’re here to adjust or repair it as needed.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your flipper fresh, comfortable and working well until you’re ready for your permanent tooth replacement.

Eating and Speaking with a Dental Flipper

It’s natural to feel a bit awkward eating or speaking when you first start using flipper teeth. The good news is, most people adjust within a few days.

You’ll likely find chewing much easier than trying to eat with a gap in your teeth. However, because flippers are lightweight, they can be fragile — so take care with hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage or dislodge the appliance.

To help you adapt:

Start with soft foods and cut food into small pieces.
Chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth.
Practise speaking aloud if you feel your speech is affected — reading out loud can help you adjust quickly.

If you ever feel your flipper moving or causing discomfort while eating or talking, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team at Affordable Dental. We’re always here to help you get the best fit and feel.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

A tooth flipper is a flexible option for many people, but it’s especially helpful in certain situations:

You’ve just had a tooth extracted:

And want to fill the gap while your gums heal before getting an implant or bridge.

You need a quick, affordable fix:

And aren’t ready to commit to a more permanent solution yet.

You’re not a candidate for implants:

Due to bone density, medical conditions, or personal preference.

You have a missing front tooth:

And want a discreet way to maintain your smile while you explore your options.

While a flipper is ideal for short-term use, in some cases it can be used longer if other options aren’t suitable. At Affordable Dental, we’ll always talk through your needs, health and goals to help you decide if a flipper is right for you.

Alternatives to Dental Flippers

It’s important to know you have choices. While flipper dentures are a popular temporary solution, they’re not the only way to replace missing teeth.

Some common alternatives include:

Partial Dentures — Removable and more durable than a flipper, these can replace multiple teeth and may be used longer term.

Dental Bridges — Fixed prosthetics that attach to your natural teeth on either side of a gap, providing a secure and natural-looking result.

Dental Implants — Titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to support a crown. Implants offer excellent stability and longevity.

Snap-On Smile or Essix Retainers — Custom-made, removable appliances that fit over your existing teeth to instantly improve your smile.

The main difference between a flipper and a partial denture is that a flipper has no metal clasps or hooks, making it more discreet — which some people prefer even if they choose to wear it longer-term with relining.

We’ll help you weigh up each option, so you feel confident you’re choosing what suits your smile, lifestyle and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a flipper for teeth?

A flipper for teeth is a lightweight, removable partial denture that replaces one or more missing teeth, giving you a natural-looking smile until you’re ready for a permanent option.

How many teeth can a flipper replace?

How many teeth can a flipper replace? Typically, a flipper is used to replace one or two missing teeth — usually at the front — but it can be made to fill small gaps in other areas too.

How long can I wear a flipper each day?

Most people wear theirs for at least 12 hours a day, removing it at night if advised. Your dentist will guide you based on your situation.

Do flippers look natural?

Yes — when well-made, they blend in with your natural teeth. At Affordable Dental, we take care to match the colour and shape to your smile.

What if my flipper feels loose or uncomfortable?

Book in for a quick adjustment. It’s common for flippers to need minor tweaks over time, especially as your gums heal.

Can I eat normally?

You can eat most foods, but be cautious with hard or sticky items. Starting with soft foods is always best while you get used to it.

Why Choose Affordable Dental for Your Dental Flipper

At Affordable Dental, we know how much a complete smile can mean for your confidence and comfort. Our experienced team is here to make sure your dental flipper fits well, looks natural and feels comfortable.
We’ll always take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and support you every step of the way — whether you’re just filling a gap temporarily or planning for a longer-term solution.

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