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Sectional impressions and simplified folding complete denture for severe microstomia
Daniel A Givan1, Wendy A AuClair, Julius C Seidenfaden
1Department of Prosthodontics, University of Alabama School of Dentistry, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA. dgivan@uab.edu
Summary
Severe microstomia prevents denture insertion. A novel folding maxillary denture was fabricated, allowing successful insertion and improved masticatory function for patients with limited oral opening.
Area of Science:
- Dental prosthetics
- Oral rehabilitation
- Maxillofacial prosthodontics
Background:
- Severe microstomia (PDI Class IV) poses significant challenges for complete denture insertion.
- Traditional complete dentures are often impossible to seat in patients with severely limited mouth opening.
Observation:
- A patient with severe microstomia could not insert a conventional maxillary complete denture.
- Conventional impression and fabrication techniques were insufficient for this patient's condition.
Findings:
- Sectional final impressions were taken using two materials and an interlocking custom tray.
- A folding record base facilitated maxillomandibular relationship records.
- A novel folding maxillary denture was designed with a custom hinge and plunger mechanism.
- The patient successfully inserted the collapsed denture and opened it intraorally.
Implications:
- This innovative folding denture design offers a viable solution for patients with severe microstomia.
- It restores masticatory function and improves quality of life for individuals with limited oral access.
- This approach expands prosthetic treatment options for challenging clinical cases.
