article = {DOBCR-2018-1-103}
title = {Application of a Bedtime Obturator Prosthesis for an Edentulous Patient with an Extensive Maxillary Defect}
journal = {Dental Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research}
year = {2018}
issn = {2613-4950}
doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.31487/j.DOCR.2018.10.003}
url = {https://www.sciencerepository.org/application-of-a-bedtime-obturator-prosthesis-for-an-edentulous-patient-with-an-extensive-maxillary-defect_DOCR-1-103 
author = {Mamoru  Murakami,Masahiro  Nishimura,Takaharu  Shimizu ,Yasuhiro  Nishi,Yoshihisa  Takenouchi,}
keywords = {Hollow obturator, maxillectomy, gingival clasp, denture cleaning, quality-of-life outcome}
abstract ={One of the important objectives of prosthetic treatment is to preserve any remaining tissue. Prosthodontists
generally instruct patients to remove their dentures at night, which allows the denture-supporting tissues to
rest and provides an opportunity for cleaning the dentures. Removing the obturator prosthesis, however,
results in open communication between the oral and nasal cavities, leading to psychological fear because of
the disordered articulation. Additionally, latent pathogenic microorganisms can become highly colonized
on obturator prostheses. To make it possible to remove the obturator without patient anxiety and ensure the
opportunity for denture cleaning, we have advocated the application of a separate bedtime obturator that
closes only the defect cavity. In this study, a newly designed, hollow bedtime obturator, which is retained
by the undercut surrounding the defect and has a gingival clasp for removing it, was inserted in a 70-yearold edentulous patient with an extensive maxillary defect. Subjective and objective evaluations indicated
that the bedtime obturator improved denture hygiene and nighttime quality of life of the patient. The concept
of a separate bedtime obturator is a useful solution for the particular situation created by maxillectomy. }