Obturators for acquired palatal defects.
The developing role of the prosthodontist in the head and neck cancer team is discussed and a sequence of care given for patients who will require the restoration by prosthetic means of surgically created palatal defects. Various styles of definitive obturators are described.


CONCLUSIONS
A knowledge of the care of patients with palatal defects is of value to GDPs and to members of the head and neck cancer team.
GKT Dental Institute, Stoke Mandeville Hospital.
John
J
Walter
D017267:Dental Prosthesis Design; D017268:Dental Prosthesis Retention; D019094:Dental Prosthesis, Implant-Supported; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000534:rehabilitation; D006801:Humans; D010158:Palatal Obturators / Q000592:standards*; D010159:Palate / Q000601:surgery*