Obturator with saliva reservoir

Abstract

Maxillectomy defects are usually due to surgical resection of carcinoma and results in a distinctive complication. In maxillectomy, there is a communication between the oral and nasal cavity which aggravates the problem and limits the treatment option. If the patient presents with additional xerostomia, then the level of difficulty increases many folds. This case report presents a patient with maxillectomy undergoing radiotherapy resulting in xerostomia. The patient wanted to have a definitive functional restoration. Due to the complexity of situation a conventional obturator was not enough as removable prosthesis in the dry mouth is not well tolerated. Initially, an interim obturator was fabricated and later definitive obturator using neutral zone technique with saliva reservoir was fabricated. Artificial saliva was used to maintain the moisture in the mouth and provided with adequate lubrication for the removable prosthesis to function. The prosthesis satisfactorily restored function and provided an adequate seal between the nasal and oral cavity. Shortcoming of this prosthesis was that the artificial saliva had to be replaced regularly. However, overall the patient was satisfied with the prosthesis.