Microstomia in a maxillectomy patient: A prosthetic challenge

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Rehabilitation

Background:

• Fabricating dentures for patients with reduced mouth opening (microstomia) is challenging for prosthodontists.
• Microstomia, often a result of radiation therapy or surgery like maxillectomy, complicates impression making, tray selection, and denture insertion.
• Traditional impression techniques and custom tray fabrication are difficult in microstomic patients.

Observation:

• This case report focuses on a microstomic patient who underwent maxillectomy.
• The patient presented with significant challenges for conventional denture fabrication due to limited mouth opening.
• An innovative approach to impression making and obturator prosthesis fabrication was employed.

Findings:

• The study highlights a novel impression technique tailored for microstomic patients.
• Successful fabrication of a custom obturator prosthesis was achieved despite the severe oral restriction.
• The modified technique facilitated accurate impressions and a well-fitting prosthesis.

Implications:

• This innovative technique offers a viable solution for restoring function and aesthetics in microstomic patients.
• It expands the prosthodontic management options for patients with complex oral conditions, including post-maxillectomy defects.
• Improved patient outcomes and quality of life can be achieved through specialized prosthetic interventions for microstomia.