A temporary partial denture, commonly referred to as a flipper tooth, offers a fast and aesthetic solution for individuals with a missing tooth. This removable device restores the appearance of a complete smile while the patient awaits a more permanent dental restoration. Many people wonder whether this appliance should remain in the mouth during sleep. Understanding the flipper’s structure and temporary nature helps address this common question about nighttime wear and proper protocol.
What is a Flipper Tooth?
A flipper tooth is a lightweight, removable acrylic partial denture used to replace missing teeth. It consists of an acrylic base, often colored pink to mimic gum tissue, with one or more prosthetic teeth attached. The appliance is custom-made from a dental impression to fit snugly over the gums and may use small clasps to secure it to adjacent natural teeth.
The primary function of the flipper is aesthetic, quickly filling the visible gap left by a lost tooth. It also serves as a space maintainer, preventing natural teeth from shifting into the open area. Because it is made of acrylic resin, the flipper is intended for short-term use while waiting for options like a bridge or dental implant.
Safety and General Recommendations for Nighttime Use
Dental professionals generally recommend removing a flipper tooth every night before going to sleep. This recommendation is based primarily on safety concerns. Since the appliance is not fixed securely, there is an inherent risk of accidental swallowing or aspiration while unconscious. A loose or damaged flipper could potentially become a choking hazard, making removal a significant safety measure.
The only common exception is during the initial 24 hours following a tooth extraction, where a dentist may advise continuous wear. This constant pressure can help control bleeding and protect the healing surgical site. After this brief period, the standard recommendation is to remove the flipper for a rest period of approximately eight hours per day.
Potential Consequences of Continuous Wear
Wearing a flipper tooth continuously, particularly overnight, can lead to adverse biological and mechanical outcomes for oral tissues. The acrylic base places constant pressure on the underlying gum tissue and the jawbone beneath it. This chronic compression impedes blood circulation to the delicate mucosal lining, causing irritation, inflammation, and painful sore spots.
Prolonged pressure can also accelerate the process of bone resorption. This occurs when the alveolar bone that supports the natural teeth begins to diminish because it is not receiving the natural stimulation of chewing. Furthermore, the flipper creates a warm, moist environment where the appliance is in continuous contact with the gums and surrounding teeth. This restricted area is an ideal breeding ground for microorganisms, leading to the proliferation of plaque, bacteria, and fungi.
This microbial buildup significantly increases the risk of developing denture stomatitis, a common fungal infection characterized by redness and inflammation of the tissues under the denture. The stress of grinding or clenching during sleep can also threaten the flipper’s integrity. Since the device is made of less durable acrylic, it is susceptible to cracking, chipping, or warping from sustained nocturnal forces.
Essential Care and Maintenance
When the flipper tooth is removed for the night, it requires specific care to maintain its hygiene and structural integrity. The appliance must be cleaned thoroughly to remove accumulated food particles, plaque, and microorganisms. This cleaning should be done using a soft-bristled brush and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner, such as hand soap or a specialized denture cleanser.
It is advised to avoid using regular toothpaste, as its abrasive components can scratch the acrylic surface. These scratches create microscopic grooves where bacteria can easily hide. After cleaning, the flipper should be stored completely submerged in water or a denture-soaking solution. This soaking prevents the acrylic material from drying out, which could cause it to warp or become brittle over time.