Lost a tooth and need something in the gap now? A temporary partial can restore your smile while you heal or decide on a long-term option.
By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026 · Part of our complete partial dentures guide
A temporary partial denture is a removable appliance that fills the space of one or more missing teeth for a limited time. It’s commonly worn after an extraction while the gums heal, or while waiting for a dental implant, bridge, or permanent partial. Also called an interim partial or “stayplate,” it’s usually simple and lower cost.
| Type | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic flipper | Acrylic base with one or more teeth | The most common temporary option |
| Clear retainer with a tooth | Clear plastic tray with a tooth-colored filler | Very short-term, cosmetic use |
| Nesbit partial | Small one-sided partial | 1–2 adjacent teeth on one side |
| Flexible partial | Metal-free, bendable resin | Longer interim wear with no metal |
At a dental office, a single-tooth flipper typically costs about $300 to $500, according to Guardian Life. FixUrSmile’s custom acrylic partial is $245 for 1–3 teeth, and our metal-free Nesbit partial is $260. Not sure which one fits? See Nesbit vs. flipper.
It depends on your treatment plan. Some people wear one for a few weeks after an extraction, while others wear one for several months while an implant heals. Many people keep wearing a flipper much longer as an affordable everyday option. As your gums heal and shrink after an extraction, the fit can loosen, so a new or relined partial may be needed. Your dentist can advise on timing.
Your dentist may place an immediate partial at the time of extraction. If you’re ordering a custom partial from impressions at home, wait until your dentist says your gums have healed enough, because impressions taken over a fresh extraction site won’t reflect how your gums settle.
Yes. An acrylic flipper is the most common type of temporary partial denture.
Many are meant for weeks to months, but with good care some people wear one for years. Replace it if it cracks or becomes loose.
Most dentists recommend taking removable partials out at night so your gums can rest. Follow your dentist’s instructions.
A single flipper tooth typically costs $300 to $500 at a dental office. FixUrSmile custom acrylic partials start at $245 for 1–3 teeth.
Made from your own impressions, from $245. Made in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home, with licensed dentist approval and our Custom Fit Guarantee.
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