A flipper tooth is a temporary dental prosthetic designed to address the aesthetic and functional challenges of missing teeth.
Understanding Flipper Teeth
A flipper tooth is a removable partial denture. It consists of a lightweight acrylic base, often tinted to match gum tissue. One or more artificial teeth, crafted from resin or porcelain, are attached to this base, mimicking natural dentition. While many flippers fit snugly over the gums, some include small clasps that grip adjacent natural teeth for added stability.
When a Flipper Tooth is Used
Dental professionals recommend flipper teeth for immediate, interim solutions. They are often used after tooth extraction, providing a placeholder during healing before a permanent restoration. Flippers also serve as a temporary measure while patients await long-term options like dental implants or fixed bridges.
During orthodontic treatment, a flipper can maintain space or address missing teeth when a permanent solution is not yet feasible, especially for younger individuals whose jaw development is ongoing. Their main functions are restoring smile appearance and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting.
Wearing and Caring for Your Flipper
Inserting and removing a flipper tooth is straightforward. To insert, align the prosthetic teeth with the gap and gently press it into place until secure. Removal involves applying slight pressure to dislodge it.
Daily cleaning is important for hygiene and the flipper’s condition. Rinse it under lukewarm water after each meal to remove food particles. For thorough cleaning, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or specialized denture cleaner; regular toothpaste is too abrasive.
When not worn, keep the flipper moist by soaking it in water or a denture cleaning solution, as drying can cause warping or brittleness. It is recommended to remove the flipper overnight to rest gums and prevent irritation or bacterial growth. When eating, avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage or dislodge it.
Other Tooth Replacement Options
Beyond flipper teeth, other options exist for replacing missing teeth, generally offering more permanent solutions. Dental implants involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which fuses with the bone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. This provides a stable, long-lasting replacement mimicking a natural tooth root.
Dental bridges consist of artificial teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth or implants, bridging the gap of missing teeth. Fixed bridges are cemented, while resin-bonded (Maryland) bridges attach with metal wings.
Removable partial dentures, distinct from flippers, are more robust, often featuring a metal framework with clasps. These options offer varying permanence, stability, and aesthetic integration for diverse dental needs.