Prosthetic treatment of velopharyngeal insufficiency using maxillary obturator in an edentulous patient with Passavant’s ridge
10.4047/jkap.2025.63.2.164
- Author:
Yun-A KIM
1
;
Chang-Mo JEONG
;
Mi-Jung YUN
;
Jung-Bo HUH
;
So-Hyoun LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Publication Type:CASE REPORTS
- From:The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
2025;63(2):164-175
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
This case report presents an 81-year-old edentulous female patient with congenital cleft lip and palate, rehabilitated with a maxillary obturator and a mandibular complete denture. A defect in the hard palate causes nasal leakage and hypernasalization of speech. Velopharyngeal insufficiency due to a defect in the soft palate causes reflux during swallowing and decreased clarity of pronunciation.The anatomical structures, such as Passavant’s ridge, were considered to prevent respiratory problems when impression taking. We achieved satisfactory results including velopharyngeal closure for pronunciation, mastication, and swallowing, as well as improved aesthetics. Therefore, we report the process and considerations of the treatment.
