A dental flipper is a temporary tooth replacement appliance. When a tooth is lost unexpectedly or is extracted in preparation for a permanent restoration, a visible gap can create aesthetic and functional concerns. This prosthetic offers an immediate solution to fill that space while the mouth heals or until a long-term dental device, such as a bridge or implant, can be placed. The flipper serves as a cosmetic placeholder, ensuring that a person can maintain their appearance during the interim period.
Defining the Dental Flipper and Its Role
The dental flipper is formally classified as a removable partial denture, designed for temporary use. It is a lightweight device that typically replaces one or two missing teeth. The term “flipper” is used because the device can be easily removed and inserted by the wearer.
The primary function of the flipper is aesthetic, immediately restoring the appearance of a full smile, especially when a visible front tooth is lost. Beyond appearance, the flipper provides functional support, helping the wearer to speak clearly and chew soft foods. The device also acts as a space maintainer, preventing the adjacent natural teeth from drifting into the open space. It is a short-term appliance, meant to be worn for a few months while the underlying tissues heal or while a permanent restoration is being fabricated.
Construction and Fit
A dental flipper is constructed from lightweight materials, most commonly an acrylic or nylon resin. The base of the flipper is custom-made to mimic the color of the patient’s gums, and the prosthetic tooth is color-matched to the existing natural teeth for a seamless appearance. This custom fabrication begins with taking an impression, or mold, of the patient’s mouth to capture the contours of the gumline and surrounding teeth.
The retention of the flipper relies on its custom fit, often utilizing the natural contours of the patient’s mouth for suction. Some flippers, particularly those replacing a single tooth, may incorporate small wire clasps that gently grip adjacent teeth to enhance stability. Because the device is not fixed or cemented into place, it is easy to remove, which is a trade-off for its limited durability and chewing strength. The entire process, from impression to delivery, can often be completed within a few days or a couple of weeks.
Daily Care and Usage Guidelines
Proper daily care is essential to maintain the hygiene of the flipper and the surrounding oral tissues. The flipper must be cleaned daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser, such as a mild soap or a specialized denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste should be avoided because its abrasive nature can scratch the acrylic surface, creating areas where bacteria can accumulate.
The appliance should be removed and rinsed with water after every meal to eliminate trapped food particles and plaque. When not being worn, store the flipper in water or a dentist-approved soaking solution to prevent the acrylic from drying out and warping. Unless a dentist gives specific instructions otherwise, the flipper should be removed at night to give the gum tissues a rest.
While a flipper restores some chewing function, it is not designed to withstand heavy forces. Users must exercise caution when eating, and hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, like nuts, hard candies, or taffy, should be avoided. These foods can easily damage the lightweight acrylic or cause the flipper to dislodge. The wearing period is usually a few months until the patient is ready for a more permanent dental restoration, and regular check-ups are necessary.