A flipper tooth, also known as an acrylic removable partial denture, is a lightweight, custom-made appliance designed to temporarily replace one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of a gum-colored base with prosthetic teeth attached, serving a primarily aesthetic function while also preventing neighboring natural teeth from shifting into the gap. This device provides a quick, non-invasive solution, often used while a patient waits for a more permanent restoration like a dental implant or bridge. Its removable nature makes daily care and maintenance essential.
Routine Removal Techniques
Removing the appliance correctly involves gentle, deliberate movements to disengage the clasps or break the natural suction seal without damaging the acrylic base. Always use your fingers and avoid using any sharp tools or foreign objects to pry the flipper loose.
For an upper flipper, begin by hooking a fingernail at the gum line, specifically between the edge of the denture and the cheek. Apply a gentle, even pressure and pull the flipper downward to release the grip from the underlying tissues.
To remove a lower flipper, place a fingernail on the edge of the appliance where it meets the gums on either side. Use a gentle, upward see-sawing or wiggling motion to disengage the appliance from the teeth it rests against. Never yank the flipper from one side, as this can twist the acrylic material and potentially cause it to break or injure the soft tissues of the mouth.
If the flipper feels particularly tight, try swishing warm water around your mouth for about 30 seconds to help loosen the seal. For a strong suction on an upper flipper, you can place both index fingers at the back of the denture near the cheeks and pull downward to break the vacuum seal.
When and Why Removal is Necessary
The removable nature of a flipper tooth means there are specific times when it must be taken out, primarily for hygiene and tissue health. The appliance must be removed daily for thorough cleaning to prevent the buildup of plaque, bacteria, and food particles that can lead to odor and irritation. Many dental professionals recommend removing the flipper for approximately eight hours each day, with nighttime being the most common period.
Removing the flipper while sleeping allows the gum tissues underneath to rest, breathe, and receive proper circulation. Continuous coverage of the gums can slow the flow of saliva, increasing the risk of inflammation and potentially contributing to gum recession over time.
The acrylic material is lightweight and less durable than permanent restorations, making it susceptible to cracking or breaking under the stress of heavy chewing forces. You should remove the flipper when eating certain foods, particularly those that are hard, sticky, or very chewy, to minimize the risk of damage. Following a tooth extraction, you must keep the flipper in for the first 24 hours to control swelling, but after that initial period, it should be removed daily for cleaning and before sleep.
Troubleshooting and Post-Removal Care
If your flipper seems difficult to remove, try gently rocking the appliance back and forth with your fingertips rather than pulling forcefully on one side. If the flipper is new or was recently adjusted and feels overly tight, a visit to your dentist may be necessary to slightly adjust the clasps or acrylic for a more comfortable fit. Never attempt to use tools or bend the flipper yourself, as this can permanently alter its shape.
Once removed, the flipper requires immediate cleaning to maintain its integrity and your oral health. Rinse it under warm, running water to remove any loose food debris before brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner, such as mild hand soap or a specialized denture cleaning solution, to gently scrub all surfaces.
Regular toothpaste should be avoided because its abrasive properties can scratch the acrylic surface, creating microscopic spaces where bacteria can collect. When the flipper is not in your mouth, it must be stored in a container filled with water or a denture soaking solution to keep it moist. Allowing the acrylic to dry out can cause it to warp or become brittle, which will compromise the fit and increase the chance of breakage.