Redefining Cheek Plumper Prosthesis: A Novel Hollow Lightweight Design Using Vacuum-Formed Thermoplastic Sheet – A Case Report

Complete denture rehabilitation should restore not only oral function but also facial support and aesthetics. Severe cheek hollowing in edentulous patients can significantly affect facial appearance and social confidence. Conventional solid cheek plumper may increase prosthesis weight and bulk, potentially compromising retention, stability, and comfort. This case report presents a novel technique for fabricating a hollow, lightweight cheek plumper using a 1-mm vacuum-formed thermoplastic sheet. A 52-years-old completely edentulous female with pronounced bilateral cheek hollowing was rehabilitated with a conventional mandibular complete denture and a maxillary complete denture incorporating hollow cheek plumper. The desired cheek contour was established clinically using modelling wax during the trial stage and subsequently transferred to a thermoplastic shell using a putty index and Type IV gypsum replica. The hollow component was adapted using a heat/vacuum-forming technique and incorporated into the processed maxillary denture. The prosthesis provided satisfactory cheek support, facial aesthetics, retention, stability, and patient comfort. Clinical follow-up over 18 months demonstrated satisfactory prosthetic performance and patient acceptance. This technique offers a simple, conservative, economical, and lightweight alternative for rehabilitation of edentulous patients with severe cheek hollowing