after having a maxillectomy in March i've lost 40 lbs. Eating is diffinitely an issue. In addition to the maxillectomy, i had removal of the sinus cavity. So now flavorings of all kinds hurt my mouth or the opening beyond the obturator.. Chewing is difficult as I can chew on one side (removal of 3 teeth)and textures of certain foods make it impossible to eat. My obturator is loose and falls out all the time. I can't use a straw or even kiss my husband becuase it comes right out. Eventually i will get a permanent obturator(prosthesis) but I'm not sure how much this will change things. I'd love to hear from someone who has had similar surgery or experience and/or wears an obturator. Has anyone else had cancer in this area? It is in theduct of the salivery gland. Also, I am looking for a prosthodontis in the Maryland area.

I also had cancer in a saliva gland. I did not have the problems you are having. Mine was on the floor of my mouth. I did not have to use an obturator. Have you talked to your doctor about the obturator falling out?

Hi Lisa,

I'm a dentist and may have some advice for you although I have not gone through what you have. Sounds like you are having a terrible time and I hope things get better soon.

If your temporary obturator has clasps (hooks) on it the dentist may be able to tighten them until you can have a more stable and durable one made. It may also be possible to get it relined (refitted). What is happenening is that your mouth is changing and I'm sure that they are waiting to make you another obturator after the changes stop or are down to a minimum.

I have a prosthodontist in my office and I already sent him an email to see if he knows of one in Maryland. It would help if I knew where in Maryland you live. Feel free to send me an email or personal post as I check my email more frequently than the forum.

Jerry

Follow-up. Got a reply already from my prosthodontist. Off hand he doesn't know anyone, but he will check tomorrow on a list he has in the office.

I'm off tomorrow so he will email me any info he has and I will let you know.

Jerry

My obturator does not fit correctly and I have had many adjustments, Right now I am trying to live with it till May 27 when I go back to U of M. I see the dentist and a NP who works with my surgeon. It has been 3 mo. since my last visit and I tried to get in sooner but it was impossible. I have sore spots in my mouth from the obturator rubbing. I have trouble swallowing and have had SLP for many sessions and my speech is not what I remember but it changes. I have excess saliva and thick mucus from my sinus. Radiation caused these problems but not right away. I cannot eat meat or bread without it getting stuck under the obturator. Have put life on hold but who needs a dinner out or a family holiday. Food is not everything. I am alive.I do have to drink after every bite and then pray that nothing comes out of my nose.

The ritual after every meal or snack is rinse my mouth out, remove obturator, brush teeth and gums and use an oral swab to make sure every bit of food is out, Then final rinse with mouthwash or peroxide oral rinse.

I have trouble maintaining weight after losing more than 30 lbs.