The terminology surrounding appliances used to replace missing teeth can often be confusing. Many people wonder if a “flipper” is simply another name for a partial denture or something entirely separate. Understanding the relationship between these two terms is necessary for anyone considering a solution for tooth loss. This article clarifies that connection by defining the broad category of partial dentures and detailing where the flipper fits within that group.
Defining the Partial Denture Category
A partial denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth, but not an entire arch. Known medically as a Removable Partial Denture (RPD), this device restores both function and appearance when some natural teeth still remain. RPDs are custom-fabricated to fit precisely, resting on the soft tissues of the gum and often supported by the remaining natural teeth.
The framework can be made from various materials, including acrylic, metal, or a combination of both. The defining characteristic is that the patient can take the appliance out for cleaning and at night. This category encompasses a range of devices, from temporary solutions to highly stable, long-term replacements.
The Flipper: Design and Primary Role
A flipper is a specific type of partial denture, often referred to as an acrylic removable partial denture. This device typically consists of a simple acrylic base that supports one or two prosthetic teeth, custom-made to fill a gap in the smile. It is lightweight and designed to pop easily in and out of the mouth, which is how it earned its common name.
The flipper’s primary function is aesthetic, providing an immediate replacement for a recently extracted or lost tooth. It acts as a placeholder while the patient awaits a more definitive treatment, such as a dental implant, a fixed bridge, or a more permanent partial denture. Because preparation involves only taking an impression, the flipper can be fabricated and delivered quickly, often serving as a temporary solution during the healing period after an extraction.
Key Differences in Function and Durability
While a flipper is classified as a partial denture, it differs significantly from definitive RPDs, particularly those featuring a cast metal framework. Metal framework partial dentures are engineered for long-term use and stability, distributing chewing forces across the remaining natural teeth and the underlying bone structure. This design allows for effective mastication.
The flipper, in contrast, is typically tissue-supported, meaning it rests almost entirely on the gum tissue rather than being rigidly secured to the teeth. Because it is made almost exclusively of acrylic resin, a relatively fragile material, it is prone to breaking when chewing hard or sticky foods. This design limitation means the flipper distributes chewing forces poorly, making it unsuitable for long-term biting and chewing.
Practical Limitations and Care
Due to its design, the flipper has several practical limitations that require specific care. It must be removed for cleaning at least once a day using a soft brush and non-abrasive soap or a denture cleaner, as regular toothpaste can scratch the acrylic surface. Maintaining strict hygiene is necessary because the flipper covers the gum tissue, potentially trapping bacteria and increasing the risk of gum irritation or gingivitis.
Furthermore, it is recommended to remove the flipper while sleeping to give the underlying gum tissues a chance to rest. Constant pressure from the appliance can impede blood flow to the gums and may accelerate the rate of bone resorption, or bone loss, in the area of the missing tooth over time. Using a flipper beyond its intended temporary period can lead to a continually worsening fit, necessitating frequent adjustments or replacement.