Case Study
Year : 2023 | Volume : 4 | Issue : 2 | Page : 9-18
Fabrication of Hollow Bulb Obturator for Maxillary Defects Using Conventional and 3D Printing Technologies: A Case Series
Jenie Rosna, Manoharan PS*, Sai Kiran Koppulu, Varsha Chandran
Department of Prosthodontics, Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Puducherry, India.
Address for Correspondence:
Dr. Manoharan PS
Department of Prosthodontics, Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Puducherry, India.
Email ID: manodent_2000@yahoo.com
Abstract
Rehabilitation of patients with maxillary defects aims to restore function, esthetics, and comfort. The fabrication of a hollow bulb obturator significantly reduces the prosthesis weight, thereby enhancing patient comfort and adaptability. Numerous materials and techniques have been reported in the literature for fabricating lightweight hollow prostheses. However, achieving precise adaptation to the defect area requires advanced clinical and laboratory skills to ensure optimal retention, stability, and minimal fabrication error. This case series presents the rehabilitation of patients with maxillary defects using hollow bulb obturators fabricated by two different methods- conventional compression molding and 3D printing technology. The comparison highlights practical aspects, advantages, and limitations of each approach in clinical application, emphasizing how digital innovations can complement traditional techniques in maxillofacial prosthodontics.
Keywords:
Hollow bulb obturator, Maxillary defect, Compression molding, 3D printing, Maxillofacial prosthesis
Conflict of interest
The authors have nothing to disclose or any conflicts of interest
Source of funding
None
How to cite this article: Rosna J, Manoharan PS, Sai Kiran K, Varsha C. (2023). Fabrication of Hollow Bulb Obturator for Maxillary Defects Using Conventional and 3D Printing Technologies: A Case Series: Original Article. International Journal of Prosthodontic Rehabilitation, 4(2), 9–18. https://doi.org/10.56501/Int.J.Prosthodont.Rehabil.v4.i1.intjpr0004
