Appliance to Protect Maxillary Teeth and Palate During Endoscopy

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Abstract
To avoid traumatizing maxillary teeth and edentulous ridges during endoscopy, a device or appliance must be used to prevent direct contact of the teeth and mucosa with endoscopic instruments. Because previous appliances have been minimally protective, easily dislodged, or obstructive to the endoscopist, none have been widely accepted at our Institution. Consequently, we developed an easily fabricated protective appliance, using conventional dental technology, that has adequate strength to prevent fracture and displacement of teeth during routine endoscopy. The appliance is retentive, unobstructive, reusable, and reasonably priced for the patient. In an initial group of approximately 25 patients undergoing endoscopy, this appliance was well accepted by the otolaryngology and anesthesia staff, and there were no injuries to the teeth or oral mucosa. To verify further the usefulness of this type of appliance, a prospective study is planned.

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