3D-Printed Flipper: A Simple Digital Workflow for Flipper Fabrication
Overview
A removable flipper remains a simple and predictable temporary solution for patients who need an esthetic tooth replacement after extraction or during implant therapy. With today's digital workflow, fabricating a flipper no longer requires multiple laboratory steps or long turnaround times.
By combining Exocad with an affordable 3D printer (I use the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K), clinicians can efficiently design and fabricate an esthetic provisional in-house. This case review provides a brief overview of the workflow, from the patient's initial visit to the delivery of a 3D printed flipper.
Clinical Workflow
This patient presented with a missing #9 and was seeking a temporary esthetic solution while waiting for definitive treatment.
The workflow began with the initial consultation, followed by digital records and treatment planning. Using the intraoral scan, a single-tooth flipper was designed in Exocad and prepared for 3D printing.
After printing, the flipper was washed, post-cured, finished, and characterized. Light staining was applied to better match the adjacent teeth, followed by an additional curing cycle. Minor adjustments were then made to optimize the fit, esthetics, and patient comfort before delivery.
This streamlined digital workflow allows clinicians to fabricate an esthetic temporary restoration efficiently while keeping the entire process in-house.
Clinical Outcome
The 3D printed flipper provided an immediate esthetic replacement for the missing tooth while the patient awaited definitive treatment. The patient was pleased with both the appearance and fit of the appliance and was instructed on how to insert, remove, and care for the flipper.
Although intended as a temporary restoration, the flipper provided a comfortable and esthetic solution during the interim period. This case demonstrates how a simple digital workflow can improve efficiency while delivering a predictable temporary restoration in everyday clinical practice.
Learn More
Detailed step-by-step design for flipper is covered in ECDA Module A: Anterior Implant • Soft Tissue • GBR.
