ABSTRACT
The maxillary anterior region is considered to be the esthetic zone of human dentition. Missing teeth in this area leads to severely compromised esthetics and function. Endosseous implants are a viable treatment option in this scenario, but the placement of endosteal implants requires adequate bone volume for successful osseointegration. When the morphology of the bone does not allow proper implant placement, there are various bone augmentation procedures which aid in reconstruction of the residual alveolar ridge for ideal implant placement. The mandibular parasymphysis can act as an excellent source of autogenous bone for the augmentation of alveolar ridge deficiencies. This article describes successful augmentation of the maxillary alveolar ridge using block bone autografts harvested from the mandibular symphysis along with platelet-rich fibrin. At 6 months after surgery, implant was inserted, and after a healing period of 5 months, permanent restoration was placed.
ABSTRACT
Velopharyngeal insufficiency resulting from a defect in the soft palate, acquired or congenital, causes incomplete closure of the palatopharyngeal sphincter. An individual with such a defect suffers from multiple problems in eating, speaking, breathing, as well as psychological trauma, in society. This case report describes the rehabilitation of a patient with a congenital velopharyngeal defect using a definitive speech bulb obturator and an intensive speech therapy program. The patient underwent speech therapy for a period of three months. A speech and voice assessment was conducted before and after speech therapy. A speech intelligibility test was conducted, and nasalance was measured using a nasometer. Significant improvement in speech, mastication, and velopharyngeal function was achieved after bulb reduction and speech therapy.
