[Effect of obturator prosthesis for partial maxillectomy]

77-year-old completely edentulous female was treated for a malignant carcinoma with an upper left posterior maxilla resection. Existing complete dentures were modified by an immediate surgical obturator with resin. A definitive obturator was fabricated following healing of the site to recover speech and chewing function.

Thermoplastic wax was used for border molding of the custom tray and conventional impression procedures were followed. A buccal flange type obturator was utilized to reduce weight. Flat cusped posterior teeth were used to reduce stress on the residual ridge and facilitate occlusal contact and balance of the prosthesis.

The patient was satisfied with the recovery of chewing and pronunciation. Expected chewing function existed on the non-resected side. Speech and pronunciation were similar to the pre-operative condition with complete dentures. Prosthetic rehabilitation with a maxillary obturator prosthesis may provide good speech and adequate chewing function following partial resection of the edentulous maxilla.