BEYOND MASTICATION: ROLE OF PROSTHETIC REHABILITATION IN AEROPHAGIA- A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Oral Cavity has always been considered as the mirror of our body. With that in consideration, persistent hiccups that don't resolve with conventional medical management remain a diagnostic puzzle for clinicians. Although typically gastrointestinal or neurological issues have been found as contributing factor, compromised oral anatomy should also be considered. This case report explores a clinical presentation in which edentulism and reduced jaw support appeared to play a contributing role in recurrent hiccups and associated abdominal symptoms. When standard investigations and specialist consultations failed to identify a systemic cause, attention was redirected toward the patient's marked oral functional impairment. Prosthetic rehabilitation, specifically the restoration of posterior occlusal support, led to the unexpected and complete resolution of both the persistent hiccups and gastrointestinal complaints. The findings suggest that restoring oral function through prosthodontic intervention may offer relief in selected patients with aerophagia where conventional approaches have proven ineffective.