How can I temporarily cover my missing tooth?

Published 9 May 2026

You can temporarily cover a missing tooth using professional dental appliances like flippers, Essix retainers, or temporary bridges. For an immediate at-home fix, over-the-counter temporary tooth kits allow you to mould a replacement tooth from special materials. These options restore your appearance and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting while you wait for a permanent solution.

  • Dental Flipper: A lightweight, removable acrylic partial denture that clips into your dental arch.
  • Essix Retainer: A clear plastic tray, similar to an aligner, containing a false tooth to fill the gap.
  • Temporary Bridge: A non-removable restoration that uses adjacent teeth for support to fill the space.
  • Snap-on Veneers: Custom-made cosmetic covers that fit over your existing teeth to hide gaps instantly.
  • At-Home Kits: Mouldable material used for short-term emergency fixes or cosmetic purposes.