Dr. Valerie R. Bell

First, it is important to know the reason for the flipper, which is generally, a temporary solution to fill a space, that may be healing due to an extraction. If that is the case, yes, you can eat with a flipper tooth, however, know that the flipper may become loose as the extraction site heals, and the swelling diminishes, making eating possibly a little more difficult. If the flipper is being used, as a less expensive method of filling space of a missing tooth, you can still eat with it, but because of the limited retention, it may be a little harder to eat with it...depending upon the design of the flipper. Final thought: yes, you can eat with flippers, the amount of retention varies with the design and the reason for the flipper. Also, know that food does get caught around them, which means they can be a little annoying. Know that there are permanent solutions that, although they cost more, are usually well worth it for your comfort.

It all depends upon the size and depth of the decay. Your dentist can usually determine if it is a good idea to try it without anesthesia. Some people can tolerate a little discomfort, others not so much. Some small areas of decay can be done with a laser procedure without anesthesia, however, your dentist would need to make that decision.

Yes, tartar does buildup on dentures! They must be brushed upon removal and placed in a denture cleaner daily. Even with that, tartar may build up, but not as frequently, or as much. They should be cleaned professionally at a dental office, while you as the patient undergo an exam of the soft tissues of the mouth and throat! This is sooooo important!

You need to retrain your tongue during swallowing, by wearing an orthodontic device that will "remind" your tongue and help keep it in the right position while you swallow. You're right, without retraining it, the tongue can cause the front teeth to move outward, requiring braces again! You will need to visit a dentist that has orthodontic training or a specialist, an orthodontist, to get this device.

Depending upon the size of the filling needing to be replaced, there is always a porcelain veneer that can be placed over the front of the entire tooth...but this would only be an option if the filling is quite large. If it is small, dental materials are constantly being improved, so fillings are lasting longer and blending better. Having the filling polished periodically will also keep the surface from becoming rough and picking up the stains, that you mentioned.

By all means, dentists offer services to the uninsured! There are also many types of payment plans that different offices use. We use one called Care Credit, which you can use in various types of medical offices, like dentists, chiropractors, vets. etc. When calling a dentist's office for an appointment, ask them if they offer any type of payment plans, and they will be able to help you with information and if you would like to apply.