Temporary vs definitive removable

A flipper is a slang name for a temporary removable prosthesis. An immediate partial can replace a tooth at the time it is removed, and an interim prosthesis is worn while more definitive treatment is delayed.

A partial denture is made to replace one or more missing teeth and fit snugly over the gum. It can have a plastic or metal plate, clasps for retention, and a pink flange to replace missing gum and bone.

Metal-based partial dentures use cobalt-chromium alloy with gum-coloured plastic and plastic teeth. They are thinner and stronger than all-acrylic dentures, although metal bases are not suitable in every case.

Immediate dentures are not designed to last long term. Healing can change the shape of the gums and bone, so they may become loose and later need relining or remaking.

New dentures can create sore spots. After extraction, swelling can stop an immediate denture fitting back in if it is removed too soon; chewy, crunchy, sticky and hard foods are avoided until eating is controlled.

An interim partial can be used to maintain space, replace a missing front tooth for appearance, act as a surgical splint, or support chewing while other treatment is under way. It is intentionally a short-term stage rather than a final restoration.

The central distinction is timing. An immediate denture fills the gap after extraction, whereas an interim denture carries someone through a defined delay before a more definitive restoration.