I had a little gag reflex the first week, while getting use to talking with the obturator. It got better fairly quickly, just had to learn to talk a little slower and take time to swallow. I feel more panic when the obturator is out, kind of scary, having a hole in my mouth, and not being able to talk. I take it out the very last thing at night and put it back in the very first thing in the morning and I keep it in a dish by my bed, for the "just in case". it makes me feel kind of helpless with it out. I hope your mom will keep trying and soon it will be more comfortable. Keep us posted. Let her know we are all pulling for her.

Sharon