I am 34 years old. The doctors first found cancer in my gums, roof of my mouth and sinus. A year later it came back in the right side of my neck. 9 months later in my scalp. I have survived it all. My biggest problem is after the surgery to remove the roof of my mouth, and all but 4 of my teeth, my mouth only opens up about 5mm. I can not even stick my pinky finger in between my gums.I have trouble eating. I can not find a doctor to help with this problem. Does anyone know of a dentist/doctor that can help with this problem. Does anyone else have this problem. I can not get dentures because they will not fit in this tiny space.

Hi Pearl, Wanted to let you know about a device recommended by my radiologist to open my mouth. (I had surgery for tongue cancer, radical neck dissection and radiation for 7 weeks) It is called the Therabite Jaw Motion Rehab System. I ordered it through this toll free phone # 1-800-322-2650 from the Therabite Corporation in West Chester, PA. I then began physical therapy a few months later and ordered a "Dynasplint" through my therapist. That helped a great deal, too. I used that for approx 8 months several times a day. I have gone back to the Therabite now, using it at least once a day. The Dynasplint can be ordered through 1-800-638-6771, but you might need a therapist or doctor recommendation for it. God Bless You and Keep Looking Up!!!!!!!!!
Carol

I have a therabite. Did it really work for you? Do you have a problem opening your mouth?

Hi Pearl, I started with the therabite for a few months, was still drinking liquids no solid food yet, then switched to the dynasplint which is made a lot stronger than the therabite. I used the splint at least 3 times a day for like 1/2 hour at a time. That really got good results. I was renting the splint and it cost about $100 a month, so in September I felt I had gotten good enough results and sent it back and am now using the Therabite again several times a day. Your insurance might cover more of the splint rental than mine did. God Bless You, Pearl...it will get better!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pearl,

My daughter also used a therabite appliance. Her jaws were locked very tightly and the therabite really did help. It hurt to stretch the jaw muscles, so the doctor told her to take extra pain medication 1/2 hour before she used it. Using a warm compress also helped. You have to be persistent. If you stop using it for a few days, you will lose much of the progress you have made. She didn't do it for the entire suggested time, but she did use it a couple times each day for a few minutes each time. When she stuck with it, it really did help. Good luck!

Rainbows & hugs,
Rosie