What is an interim partial denture (flipper)?
An interim partial denture, commonly known as a “flipper,” is a temporary, removable dental appliance made from acrylic. It serves as a short-term solution while you wait for your permanent or long-term prosthesis. The name “flipper” comes from its ability to be easily removed or “flipped” out of the mouth with your tongue.
If you’re missing one or more of your front teeth, a flipper can be an excellent initial step toward restoring your smile. Our doctors take detailed scans of your mouth and design a custom-fit, comfortable prosthesis that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, creating a beautiful and natural-looking smile.
Flippers are typically made from a lightweight acrylic resin that matches the color of your gums, with prosthetic teeth attached to fill the gaps. Depending on where it’s placed in your mouth, the flipper may rest on your jaw, along your palate, or clasp onto adjacent teeth to stay secure. With a flipper, you can maintain a natural smile and restore function while healing from tooth extractions or dental implant surgery before your permanent prosthesis can be placed.
How long can I wear my interim partial flipper?
An interim partial flipper is primarily designed as a temporary solution, but some patients may choose to wear it for a longer period. While not built to withstand the pressure of hard foods and potentially becoming loose over time, it remains a viable option for extended wear.
During your consultation, our doctors will evaluate your situation and discuss your health and smile goals. Based on the information gathered, they provide you with options that best align with your goals, whether that includes continuing with the flipper or transitioning to a more permanent solution.
How do I care for my interim partial flipper?
Proper care of your removable interim partial flipper is crucial for maintaining the health of your remaining teeth and ensuring the integrity of your flipper. Like natural teeth, your interim partial flipper requires daily cleaning to maintain its optimal appearance, function, and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
- Brush and rinse your flipper with a nonabrasive denture toothpaste daily.
- Brush and rinse your flipper, gum tissue and natural teeth after eating.
- Brush your remaining natural teeth and gum tissue at least twice daily and floss daily.
- Take your flipper out of your mouth each night. Allowing your gum tissue and underlying bone a break from being covered will prevent tissue irritation, bone loss and infection.
- Keep your flipper moist overnight. The materials your flipper is made from need to remain moist to prevent from becoming brittle and retain the proper strength and fit, as we ago our salvia production decreases, and our mouths do not produce enough moisture for this purpose.
- In addition to daily cleaning at home, visits with our doctors and team are essential to keep both you and your flipper in optimal function and health. During these visits our team will:
- Review the effectiveness of your home care techniques and tools used.
- Assess your flipper to ensure its integrity and fit.
- Assess the condition and health of your underlying gum tissue, bone and remaining natural teeth.
- Professionally clean your flipper, gum tissue and remaining natural teeth.
Following these steps ensures your flipper and mouth stays in optimal condition by preventing bacterial buildup that leads to gum disease, bone and tooth loss and the ability to wear your interim partial flipper and future permanent prosthesis as designed.