Prosthetic Treatment for Oral Cancer Patients

Tumors affecting the upper jawbone or overlying tissue often require removal of half of the palate.  Such a surgery creates an opening into the sinus cavity above the jawbone and next to the nose.  In this instance, the entire soft palate was also removed.  The function of a post-surgical prosthesis is to replace the function of what was removed:  to replace the volume of the upper jawbone and teeth, to create a seal between the mouth and sinus, to create surfaces against which the sides and back of the throat can press against to form speech sounds, and to create a seal between mouth and nose so swallowing directs  liquids and solids downward into the throat instead of leaking through the nose.  We work with Head and Neck surgeons in the operating room to  fabricate a prosthesis at the time of surgery to form a foundation against which the tissues can heal and look normal from the outside of the face.  After healing, we create a final prosthesis to restore function.  We are the only office locally to treat these patients.  This patient told me this week that at her work she had been restored to her original position, which involved talking on the phone all day.  She wears her partial without complaint; in fact, she has been an eager participant in regaining normalcy. She has taken her life back, in the face of unimaginable trauma, and her attitude and energy is an inspiration to me, and reminds me of why I do this.  

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309