How should I clean the obturator? What material is used? Is there any progress in science?

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Dear Sigmund Freud,

I hope this letter finds you in a moment of relative comfort and peace amidst your ongoing struggles. I understand that you have questions regarding the care of your obturator prosthesis, the materials used in its construction, and the progress of science in this domain. I will endeavor to provide you with the most comprehensive and up-to-date information available to me, keeping in mind the advancements that have been made since my time.

Cleaning the Obturator Prosthesis

The obturator you are using is designed to restore function and aesthetics following surgical intervention. It is imperative for your comfort and health that the obturator is kept clean. To clean the obturator, it should be removed gently from the mouth and rinsed under warm water. A soft-bristled brush, such as a denture brush, can be used to remove any debris or buildup from the obturator. It is advisable to use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for dental prostheses to avoid damaging the material. After brushing, the obturator should be rinsed thoroughly and can be soaked in a denture-cleaning solution as recommended by your dental professional. Before reinserting the obturator, ensure it is completely dry to prevent any irritation or infection.

Materials Used in Obturator Fabrication

Traditionally, obturators have been made from materials such as acrylic resin, which is lightweight and easily moldable to the unique contours of a patient’s oral cavity. The base of the obturator is typically made from this acrylic, while the replacement teeth may be made from porcelain or other dental materials that mimic the appearance of natural teeth.

Progress in Science and Potential Advances

Since my time, there have been significant advancements in the field of dental prosthetics and materials science. If I were to comment based on the newest medical publications available in 2024, I would mention the development of more biocompatible materials that reduce the risk of irritation and infection. Additionally, the use of digital imaging and 3D printing technology has revolutionized the creation of dental prostheses, allowing for more precise and personalized fittings.

In the realm of oncology, there have been remarkable strides in the understanding and treatment of oral cancers. Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are among the treatments that have shown promise in improving outcomes for patients with various types of cancer. These treatments work by specifically targeting cancer cells or by harnessing the body’s immune system to fight the disease.

Furthermore, the psychological impact of chronic illness and the importance of mental health in the healing process have gained greater recognition. As a psychoanalyst, I have always emphasized the intricate connection between the mind and the body. Modern medicine increasingly acknowledges this interplay and incorporates holistic approaches to patient care, including psychological support and counseling.

Emotional Assistance

Sigmund, I want to offer you not only medical guidance but also emotional support during this challenging time. It is natural to experience a range of emotions, from frustration to sadness, as you navigate the complexities of your condition. I encourage you to continue engaging in open dialogue with your healthcare providers and to seek the support of those close to you.

Remember that your contributions to the field of psychoanalysis have provided deep insights into the human psyche, and your strength in facing your own adversities serves as a testament to the resilience you have often explored in your work. Allow yourself to lean on the therapeutic principles you have championed, and do not hesitate to express your feelings and concerns.

In closing, I hope that the information provided offers some solace and guidance. Please continue to prioritize your well-being, both physically and emotionally, as you manage your health.

With warm regards and in shared pursuit of understanding,

Max Schur
Psychoanalyst (1897 – 1969)
Friend of Sigmund Freud
(AI generated)

2024-01-13 23:05 Telekonsultation

Dear Mr. Freud,

I trust this letter finds you in a period of relative comfort amidst the challenges you have been facing. Your inquiry regarding the cleaning and material of the obturator prosthesis, as well as advancements in the field, is indeed a matter of great importance for your continued care and quality of life.

Cleaning the Obturator Prosthesis:
The obturator you are using, as you are well aware, is a sophisticated device designed to separate the oral and nasal cavities, thereby facilitating functions such as speech and eating. To maintain its function and your comfort, it is imperative that the obturator be kept clean. The recommended procedure for cleaning involves:

  1. Gently removing the prosthesis from the mouth.
  2. Rinsing it under warm water to remove any debris.
  3. Brushing the obturator with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner, such as a mild soap or a specialized denture cleaner, to avoid scratching the surface.
  4. Rinsing the prosthesis thoroughly after brushing to ensure all soap residue is removed.
  5. Soaking the obturator in an antimicrobial solution may be advised periodically to reduce the risk of infection.
  6. Ensuring the prosthesis is completely dry before reinsertion.

It is also essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing of any remaining teeth and the careful cleaning of the oral cavity, to prevent infection and irritation.

Materials Used in the Obturator:
The obturator prosthesis you have been provided with is constructed from vulcanite, a hardened rubber, and gold, with porcelain artificial teeth. These materials were selected for their durability and biocompatibility. Vulcanite, in particular, offers a balance of rigidity and comfort, while gold provides a stable framework for the retention of the prosthesis.

Progress in Science and Potential Alternatives:
As of my last knowledge in 1949, the field of maxillofacial prosthetics was continuously evolving. However, if I were to conjecture based on the trajectory of advancements, by the year 2024, I would anticipate significant progress in materials science and surgical techniques. It is plausible that newer materials such as medical-grade silicone, advanced polymers, and even biocompatible metals like titanium could be employed to create lighter, more comfortable, and more adaptive prostheses.

Furthermore, the integration of digital technologies, such as 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD), would likely allow for more precise and personalized prosthesis fabrication. These technologies could enable the creation of obturators that fit more accurately, reducing the need for frequent adjustments and improving overall comfort.

In terms of surgical intervention, the use of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine might offer new avenues for reconstructing defects caused by ablative surgery. The cultivation of autologous tissues or the use of biocompatible scaffolds to promote tissue regeneration could potentially reduce the reliance on obturator prostheses altogether.

It is also conceivable that advancements in oncology, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, could provide more effective treatments for oral cancers, potentially reducing the extent of surgical intervention required and preserving more of the natural anatomy.

In conclusion, while the principles of cleaning and maintaining your obturator remain largely unchanged, the materials and methods for managing maxillofacial defects are likely to have advanced considerably. I would encourage consultation with a contemporary specialist who is abreast of the latest developments in the field to explore the most current options available to you.

With my highest regards for your well-being,

Hans Pichler (1877 – 1949)
Head of the Maxillofacial Surgery Department
First Surgical University Clinic
(AI generated)

Termin vereinbaren

Ordination Dr. Michael Truppe
Albertgasse 3/6 1080 Wien

Telefon 01 408 95 00 66
Email ordination@smile.wien

Ein verbindlicher Behandlungsplan und Heilkostenplan wird gemäß den Vorgaben der Zahnärztekammer erst nach einer Konsultation in der Praxis erstellt.

© 2023 Eurodoc Telemedizin ForschungsgesellschaftmbH

Dr. Michael Truppe


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