Obturators
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| • | Patient Counseling and Instruction: Our first meeting is to gather a wide range of information related to the patient. We will meet and review the patient’s relevant medical history and complete dental information. This often includes dental x-rays and a thorough examination. We will then discuss the patient’s goals and together we will create a treatment plan. |
| • | Fabrication and Fitting of Appliance: The fabrication and fitting of your appliance are done in three stages. 1. Immediate: The first stage is done immediately following surgery. We will place a temporary device to help the healing process following surgery, which will reduce infection and promote healing. 2. Following the initial healing period, we can then fit you with a transitional device. Your transitional prosthetic will be worn for an extended period, possibly even the first couple of years. This device is worn until healing and any tissue changes, and we is complete. We want to promote healthy adjustments. 3. The final stage is the definitive phase; we will create a prosthetic device for long term use. For many patients this may include dental crowns or the use of an additional prosthetic to be used in combination. |
| • | Physical Therapy: Yes! There is physical therapy for your mouth! Often, the patient requires assistance in function and speech assistance. We will review techniques and create a plan to improve these areas. |
| • | Dietary Counseling: Getting used to palate changes can be difficult and take time in learning new functions. We will want to reduce aspiration issues through dietary choices, along with physical therapy. We will discuss and review a plan specific to each patient. |
| • | Oral Hygiene and Prosthesis Maintenance: Infection is a constant concern, and it could derail the healing process. Properly caring for your obturator, along with your entire mouth, through daily brushing and rinsing, will reduce the incidence of infection. Daily remove your obturator appliance and brush and rinse it, along with cleaning your oral cavity before replacing it. |
"Dr. Blake is always extremely professional, meticulous, accommodating, and at the same time, affable and sincerely interested in his patient’s well-being and concerns. The staff is at all times very courteous and professional. Their constant friendly and pleasant attitudes ensure that at every visit, the patient’s experience is always relaxing and positive." -John |
Palate issues can be highly problematic for the patient’s ability to speak and swallow. Working with our team at