Abstract
Xerostomia is a frequently encountered condition, particularly among patients who have undergone head and neck radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or are on long-term medication for systemic conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders. It results in significantly diminished salivary flow, leading to various functional and psychological difficulties, especially in edentulous individuals. The most common complaints include dryness of the mouth, painful mucosa, halitosis, altered taste perception, difficulty in speech and swallowing, and compromised retention and stability of complete dentures. This poses a considerable challenge in prosthodontic rehabilitation. Management of xerostomia includes the use of salivary stimulants, substitutes, pharmacotherapy (e.g., pilocarpine, cevimeline), electrostimulation, and lifestyle modifications. When conservative measures offer limited relief, prosthetic interventions such as complete dentures incorporating a salivary reservoir may serve as an effective palliative measure. These reservoirs act as an artificial source of lubrication to improve the patient’s oral comfort and denture functionality. This case report describes the prosthodontic management of a 55-year-old female xerostomic patient using a modified split maxillary complete denture with an incorporated salivary reservoir. The innovation aimed to restore her oral function while minimizing discomfort, thereby enhancing her speech, comfort, and quality of life. This approach highlights the interdisciplinary collaboration necessary in oncology and prosthodontics to address the functional impairments caused by post-radiotherapy complications.
Keywords: Artificial Saliva, Complete Denture, Radiation-induced Dry Mouth, Salivary Reservoir, Split Denture, Xerostomia