Replacement of a maxillary obturator using a denture-copying technique: a case report

After maxillary resection, the success of an obturator is often dependent on the neuromuscular skills of the patient and his or her ability to adapt to the shape of the prosthesis. When an obturator has to be replaced, it is desirable to retain the general form of the prosthesis, particularly in an aging patient whose powers of adaptation are reduced. This article describes the use of a copying technique to replace a maxillary obturator. This method facilitated replication of major characteristics of the prosthesis and controlled modification of others, thus minimizing the patient's need to acquire new neuromuscular skills.