Retainer With a Fake Tooth: How It Works and Alternatives

A clear retainer with a fake tooth can hide a gap while you wait for a permanent option. Here’s how it works and what else to consider.

By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026

What Is a Retainer With a Fake Tooth?

A retainer with a fake tooth (often called an Essix retainer with a pontic) is a clear, vacuum-formed retainer with a tooth-colored filler placed where a tooth is missing. It snaps over your teeth like a normal Essix retainer and fills the gap visually.

Dentists and orthodontists often use one as a short-term option: after an extraction, while an implant heals, or during orthodontic treatment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Very discreet
Can also help hold teeth in position
No wires or clasps

Cons

Covers all your teeth, so it’s usually removed to eat
The fake tooth isn’t built for chewing
Thin plastic wears and cracks over time
Usually a short-term solution

Retainer With Fake Tooth vs. Flipper vs. Flexible Partial

	Retainer with tooth	Flipper	Flexible partial
Covers other teeth?	Yes, all of them	No	No
Eat with it?	Usually removed	Gentle chewing	Everyday chewing after adjustment
Typical use	Short-term cosmetic	Temporary or budget	Everyday, metal-free
FixUrSmile	Not offered	From $245	From $315

Which Should You Choose?

If you only need to hide a gap for a short time and your dentist offers one, a retainer with a fake tooth can work. If you want to eat and wear it daily, a temporary partial such as a flipper or flexible partial is usually more practical. For one or two back teeth, consider a Nesbit partial.

How to Get a Custom Partial From Home

Order online and we mail an impression kit to your home.
Take your impressions using our step-by-step impression guide.
Mail them back free. A licensed dentist reviews your case, usually within 24–48 hours.
Our US dental lab builds your custom appliance and ships it to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat with a retainer with a fake tooth?

It’s usually removed for meals because it covers all your teeth and the fake tooth isn’t designed for chewing.

Is a retainer with a fake tooth permanent?

No. It’s generally a short-term option while you heal or wait for an implant, bridge, or permanent partial.

Does FixUrSmile make retainers with a fake tooth?

No. We make clear retainers without a tooth, and custom flippers and partials for replacing missing teeth.

What's better, a flipper or a retainer with a fake tooth?

For daily wear and eating, a flipper or partial is usually more practical. For short-term appearance only, either can work.

This guide is for general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist. If you have pain, swelling, loose teeth, or other oral health concerns, please see a dental professional.

Replace a Missing Tooth With a Custom Partial

Flipper-style partial from $245. Made in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home, with licensed dentist approval and our Custom Fit Guarantee.

Shop Now Read the FAQ