Dental flippers are gaining popularity due to their portability and ease of usage. Upon hearing the word flipper, you might draw a picture of a dolphin’s flipper in your head. It would be a misconception to think they are used for aesthetic purposes only because they are designed for functionality. So, can you eat with a dental flipper? Yes, you can.
Eating with a Dental Flipper
According to Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim of Céline Dental, eating with a dental flipper is possible. However, you have to be patient and cautious at first to see the results.” Eating with a dental flipper can be easy once you get used to it. It’s important to start with soft foods and fruits to avoid dislodging the flipper.
What Foods Can You Eat with a Dental Flipper?
When eating with a dental flipper, it’s important to choose soft and easy-to-chew foods to avoid damaging them. Good options include soft fruits like applesauce and bananas, cooked vegetables, tender meats like poultry and fish, dairy products such as yogurt and cottage cheese, and soft grains like rice and pasta. Scrambled eggs and mashed potatoes are also great choices. Satisfaction rates among dental flipper users vary with their needs.
Tips for Eating with a Dental Flipper
Getting used to eating while wearing a dental flipper is a gradual process. You can consider taking the following steps:
• Start with Soft Foods
When you first wear a dental flipper, begin with soft foods. They’re easier to chew and help you adjust to the flipper. Some good choices are mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, scrambled or boiled eggs, soft cereals like oatmeal, and fruits like applesauce and bananas.
• Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Hard and sticky foods can damage or dislodge the flipper. Avoid foods like nuts, raw vegetables, hard candies, and ice. Sticky foods like gum and caramel can stick to the flipper and make it hard to clean.
• Cut Food into Small Pieces
Cutting food into small pieces makes it easier to chew and reduces the risk of damaging the flipper. It also helps distribute pressure evenly across your teeth and the flipper.
• Chew Slowly and Gently
Chew slowly and gently to avoid shifting or dislodging the flipper. Try to chew on both sides of your mouth to spread the pressure evenly.
• Avoid Dark-Colored Foods and Drinks
Dark foods and drinks can stain the flipper. While you don’t need to avoid them entirely, try to limit them and clean the flipper regularly. Drinks like coffee, tea, cranberry juice, and foods like beets can cause discoloration.
• Stay Hydrated
Drinking water while eating helps with chewing and keeps your mouth moist, which is important for your gums and the fit of the flipper.
• Remove the Flipper at Night
Take out your flipper at night to give your gums a break and to clean the flipper properly. This helps prevent bacteria and food buildup, which can cause discomfort or infection.
How Do I Clean My Dental Flipper After Eating?
Cleaning your dental flipper after meals is important to keep it clean and prevent bacteria from building up. Follow these simple steps:
• Rinse with Warm Water: Rinse the flipper under warm running water to wash away food particles.
• Brush with a Soft Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the flipper. Don’t use regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface. Instead, use mild soap or a denture cleaner.
• Clean All Areas: Make sure to clean all parts of the flipper, especially the small crevices where bacteria can hide.
• Rinse Again: Rinse the flipper thoroughly with warm water to remove any leftover soap or cleaner.
• Soak in a Cleaning Solution: When not wearing your flipper, soak it in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water to keep it fresh and moist. Follow the instructions on the cleaning product for the soaking time.
Wrapping Up
Dental Flippers are a handy solution for missing teeth. However, you need to be cautious while using them as they are fragile. Remember that they are not meant to be a long-term solution.
Annie Edith is an experienced journalist and content creator with a strong passion for health and wellness. She takes a unique approach to her writing, exploring the latest trends in Dental, Fitness, and mental well-being, while providing readers with informative, research-based articles.
