Hi SPM,

I just came across your post from May. Did anyone get back to you? I am sad to hear what your Mom is going through (and by default, you). You asked very good questions. Have they staged her cancer yet? If they have said she needs a mandible removed it sounds advanced? I can’t answer any of your questions from a professional standpoint but there are others here who can. Try reposting your original post to the main forum page and you should get a better response. I can tell you that if bone is irradiated they don’t hold implants well (from recent research for myself). Chewing and eating normally will never be the same for most of us, but that will depend on what is done and how she heals.

The only advice I can give you is that it is ultimately your Mom’s choice. She might benefit from seeing a therapist to discuss things with (an outside person might help her see things on a less emotional level). If she doesn’t want the surgery, it can’t be forced. However she should be made aware of exactly what living out her life with her current condition will mean. Know that whatever she chooses is HER choice and not a reflection of your love for her or your effort on her part.

Heather