An innovative sectional silicone obturator in a patient with partial maxillectomy: A Case report

Prosthodontic management of palatal defect is fundamental to close patient's oronasal communication and improve masticatory function, phonetics, esthetics, and comfort. Maxillary defects are the direct consequence of the surgical treatment of malformations, neoplasms, or trauma. The primary goal of an obturator is to close palatal defects after maxillectomy and to improve speech and masticatory function. This clinical report describes the use of a flexible silicone obturator for the treatment of a 34-year-old patient with partial maxillectomy due to osteosarcoma of the maxilla. A conventional cast partial denture with a hollow bulb made in acrylic was given as a definitive obturator initially, which was not comfortable for the patient. Alternatively, a new technique of fabrication of obturator with silicone to close palatal defect was decided to establish an acceptable phonetics, comfort, speech, and function for the patient. This silicone obturator gets retention by "snug fit" from the defect site.