A surgical interim prosthesis.

This technique for making a surgical interim obturator allows for immediate replacement of the anterior teeth and maxillary arch form, greatly alleviating the physiologic and psychologic shock of a maxillectomy to the patient (Fig. 5). The technique also reduces the number of visits normally required to provide separate surgical and interim obturators. The tongue and lips can maintain a near normal anatomic relationship with the teeth and palate facilitating the return of normal eating, swallowing, and speaking. The initial prosthesis can be used until the patient is ready for his definitive prosthesis. As tissues change, the prosthesis can be modified, eliminating the need for a separate interim prosthesis, which reduces treatment time and cost. A second interim prosthesis can be made, if necessary, but the esthetic requirements will be easily attained since the patient's natural dental and gingival shape, position, and contour have been preserved. The palatal portions made of clear acrylic resin, which allows the surgical margins and pressure areas to be observed.