Oral Rehabilitation of a Patient with Complete Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Using an Implant-Retained Speech-Aid Prosthesis: Clinical Report

Abstract

Objective: To report the oral rehabilitation of velopharyngeal insufficiency due to a congenital anatomic defect using an implant-retained speech-aid prosthesis. Case Report: A 65-year-old man with a diagnosis of complete unilateral cleft lip and palate on the left side with an unrepaired palate was examined. A removable partial denture with a speech bulb had been used for approximately 40 years. After primary care for gross caries and tooth mobility, an implant-retained obturator with a speech bulb was fabricated. Results and Conclusion: Improvement in mastication, speech, and velopharyngeal function was achieved with a satisfactory esthetic result.