Palatal Obturator
A palatal obturator is a maxillofacial prosthesis used to close a defect in the hard and/or soft palate, restoring separation between the oral and nasal cavities.
Indications
• Congenital defects
• Cleft palate
• Acquired defects
• Surgical resection (e.g., maxillectomy due to tumors)
• Trauma
• To improve:
• Speech (reduces hypernasality)
• Swallowing (prevents nasal regurgitation)
• Mastication
• Esthetics and psychological well-being
Functions
• Separates oral and nasal cavities
• Improves speech resonance
• Prevents nasal escape of food and liquids
• Supports facial tissues
• Aids in mastication