New Obturator Fabrication for an Edentulous Patient in a single visit: A Case Report

Abstract

The obturator prosthesis serves as a crucial rehabilitation solution for patients with acquired maxillary defects. The primary objective of an obturator prosthesis is to enhance oral functions and reestablish the separation between the oral and nasal cavities, enabling patients to regain a sense of normalcy in their daily activities. This includes activities like speaking, eating, and swallowing. In this case, the fabrication of an obturator prosthesis was determined for an edentulous patient, and a strategic approach was adopted to streamline the process. The patient's existing obturator was repurposed as a custom tray, which not only expedited the procedure but also ensured a better fit and comfort during the impression-making phase. The closed-mouth impression technique was employed to achieve accurate results. Additionally, the patient's bite registration was recorded using the previous prosthesis, which played a critical role in maintaining proper occlusion and functional harmony. Subsequently, during the subsequent clinical visit, the insertion of the obturator prosthesis was successfully carried out. This approach was chosen to minimize the need for frequent visits in the process of fabricating a new prosthesis, thereby saving the patient's time and effort while efficiently addressing their maxillary defect. In conclusion, the ultimate aim of this obturator prosthesis fabrication was not only to restore the patient's oral functions and esthetics but also to optimize their overall quality of life by enabling them to engage in daily activities with greater confidence and ease.