Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency: A case of Pharyngeal Obturator with palatal lift prosthesis

Abstract

Palatal defect of any extent causes multiple problems in speech, mastication and esthetics. Cancer resection is the most common cause of acquired palatal defects. Palatal defect can be repaired by reconstructive surgery and/or a dental prosthesis. A soft palate defect may result from surgical resection, and its consequences could include hypernasal speech and nasal regurgitation of food and liquids. A speech aid prosthesis fabricated for patients can improve nasal emission during speech, and assist in preventing nasal regurgitation of food. This article presents a case of the reconstruction of a soft palate defect by prosthetic obturation.