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Maxillary obturator with silicone-lined hollow extension
T Ohyama1, H O Gold, S Pruzansky
1Department of Prosthodontics, Tsurumi University School of Dentistry, Yokohama, Japan.
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|February 17, 2012
Summary
A novel hollow obturator design uses a lightweight acrylic core and soft silicone exterior. This dual-material approach improves retention and patient comfort for medical device applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Medical Device Design
Background:
- Obturators are crucial in medical applications for sealing or obstructing passages.
- Current obturator designs may face challenges with weight, stability, retention, and tissue compatibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a new technique for constructing a hollow extension obturator.
- To optimize obturator performance through innovative material selection and structural design.
Main Methods:
- Development of a two-material construction technique.
- Utilizing a hard acrylic resin for the inner hollow core.
- Employing a soft silicone for the outer layer.
Main Results:
- The inner acrylic core effectively reduces the obturator's weight.
- The hollow core design ensures dimensional stability.
- The outer silicone layer enhances retention capabilities.
- The soft silicone improves tissue tolerance and patient comfort.
Conclusions:
- The presented technique successfully creates a lightweight and dimensionally stable hollow obturator.
- The combination of acrylic resin and silicone offers superior retention and tissue compatibility.
- This innovative obturator design holds promise for improved medical device performance.
