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Some Questions about flipper retainer

  • Thread starter Thread starter Class325Guy
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Class325Guy

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Dec 14, 2025
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Hello, I had a couple of teeth extracted a couple of weeks ago, and today I was given a flipper retainer to use as a temporary solution until the implants can be done. From what I understand, part of the reason for the temporary implants is that they help prevent the other teeth from becoming destabilized. Basically, the dentist said to take it out when eating and before bed, but wear them all other times. The thing is, I have Autism, and while the retainer doesn't hurt, it is hard for me to ignore it, which feels overwhelming a lot of the time.

What I am wondering is whether it would be okay to take it out for a little while here and there each day, even if I'm not eating or sleeping, to basically have a break from the feeling of it all the time? I know they said i need to wear it to keep the other teeth stable but I already went without it for a few weeks anyway, because they, i guess, had to make it first so I doubt taking it out for a little while throughout the day will matter much, but I want to be sure.

Also, it seems that I am producing much more saliva while wearing it, and I am wondering if this is something that will go away after I get used to it, and if so how long does it usually take?

And lastly, they said to take it out at night and then rinse and brush it, then put it in the case, but some things I have seen online say I should soak it in water overnight to prevent it from drying out. So when I store them overnight, do I need to soak them or can I just rinse them off then put them in the container once they dry?

Thanks
 
Hi. Of course you can remove it here and there. Perfectly safe.
Since it is a temporary solution, I wouldn’t worry about keeping soaked in water. Acrylic material can be wet, can be dry, the problem is constant changes-switching between dry and wet environments, but it is not a real issue, especially if wearing the flipper for a few months.
 
Thanks, I will try to wear it as much as I can anyway, but I won't worry about putting it back in right away after I eat or if I need to take it out for a little while to get some relief.
 
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