Hollow Complete Denture With a Speech Bulb Prosthesis: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Speech Pathology
• Craniofacial Anomalies

Background:

• Velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) significantly impacts speech and psychosocial well-being.
• VPD can result from congenital defects, trauma, or post-surgical complications, notably after cleft palate repair.
• Prosthodontic management using velopharyngeal obturators is a recognized approach to improve speech in VPD cases.

Observation:

• This case report focuses on rehabilitating residual VPD following cleft palate closure.
• A speech bulb prosthesis integrated with a hollow complete denture was designed to manage VPD.
• The hollow design mitigated added weight from the speech bulb component.

Findings:

• The speech bulb prosthesis effectively reduced nasal air emissions and hypernasality.
• The patient experienced marked improvements in communication abilities.
• Overall quality of life was enhanced through improved speech function.

Implications:

• This prosthodontic approach offers a viable solution for residual VPD post-cleft palate repair.
• The use of a hollow complete denture with an integrated speech bulb demonstrates a practical and effective treatment strategy.
• Improved speech function has a direct positive impact on patient's social integration and psychological well-being.