The purpose of this study was to investigate the movement of the obturator framework and abutment tooth and to find a method to improve its retention, support and stability.
The model and framework in this experimental study simulated the posterior portion of the resected maxilla and obturator framework. The movement of the framework and abutment tooth under loading on the resected side were observed. And the retentive force under loading or pulling on the resected side was measured on each retainer designed by the three different paths of placement.
The findings were as follows:
1. The typical movement of the framework and abutment tooth was seen under loading on the resected side. The framework rotated with a movement of the center of rotation from the middle of the residual palate to the resected and occlusal direction. And sliding on the palate to abutment direction was observed.
2. The abutment tooth inclined to the resected side, and also the mesio-distal and axial movements were observed.
3. The path of placement in designing affected the retentive force under loading or pulling force.
4. The optimum path of placement in designing the obturator and the method of finding it were discussed from the standpoint of retention and stability.
View full abstract