Hi, Chris -
My son's friend also had cancer in the hard palate. It's been 8 with no recurrence.
He said that following surgery, it felt like he had a popsickle stick on the top of his mouth, but it wasn't too bad.
Since his was on the roof of his mouth, opening his mouth wasn't a big problem for him (mine was in the gum in my lower jaw, so I had a problem opening my my mouth after surgery.) He has not had reconstructive surgery or implants. He has a special bridge that serves him well. Public speaking is part of his job, & he has had no problem with that, either.
Good luck with your surgery and recovery.
Marlene

[quote=mightymouse]Hi, everybody. I was recently diagnosed with SCC Stage 1 in the upper right hard palate, will have surgery 5/28 to remove, plus 6 teeth, getting obturator immediately after. Anyone else with a similar story?[/quote]