What is a maxillofacial prosthodontist?
A prosthodontist with a focus on replacing missing teeth and lost parts of the mouth, jaw or face with custom prostheses. These may be needed after cancer surgery, trauma or a congenital defect.
What is an obturator?
A prosthesis that closes an opening in the roof of the mouth (palate), for example after surgery. It can help with speech, eating and swallowing. Its design depends on each patient's anatomy.
Why will I need more than one obturator?
The tissues change a lot while they heal after surgery. Treatment usually moves from a surgical obturator, to an interim obturator that is adjusted during healing, to a definitive obturator made once the area has settled.
Will a facial prosthesis look natural?
Facial prostheses are individually sculpted and colour-matched to your skin, so they can blend well. How natural one looks depends on the size and site of the defect and the way it is retained, and this is discussed honestly at your consultation.
How is a facial prosthesis held in place?
Depending on the case, with medical-grade adhesive, by attaching it to spectacles, or with small craniofacial implants placed in the bone near the defect, using magnets or clips. Your surgeon and prosthodontist decide together which is suitable.
How long does a silicone facial prosthesis last?
Silicone slowly changes colour and wears with daily use and exposure to sunlight, so facial prostheses need remaking from time to time. Good care and regular reviews help them last longer.
Can dental implants be used after cancer treatment?
In some cases. Suitability depends on factors such as the area treated, radiotherapy history, bone and general health, and it is decided together with the oncology team. Dr. Sheth's PhD research focuses on implant-supported prostheses after cancer.
Can I have dental implants after radiotherapy?
Sometimes. Bone that has received radiation heals less predictably, so implant treatment in irradiated areas needs careful assessment and planning with your oncology team. Each case is evaluated individually.
How do I look after my mouth during and after radiotherapy?
Follow your oncology team's advice. In general this means meticulous brushing, fluoride as prescribed, jaw-opening exercises if advised, managing dry mouth, and regular dental reviews. Avoid having teeth extracted from irradiated areas without first discussing it with your dentist and oncologist.
What is full mouth rehabilitation?
Planned treatment that restores the teeth of both jaws together, using crowns, bridges, implants or dentures as appropriate, to improve bite, function and appearance. Each plan is individual.
Do you treat jaw clicking or jaw pain?
Yes. Jaw-joint (TMJ) problems such as clicking, restricted opening and bite-related facial pain are assessed, and management options are discussed. A referral is made where needed.
How long does treatment take?
It varies with the treatment and the person. After an examination and records, you'll get an estimated sequence of visits. No fixed timeline can be promised in advance.
Do I need a referral to book?
No. Patients can book directly by phone or WhatsApp. If you have one, a referral letter and copies of your reports help with planning.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Previous dental or medical reports, any X-rays or CBCT scans, surgery/biopsy/radiotherapy summaries if relevant, a list of current medicines, and any denture or prosthesis you use now.
Where does Dr. Sheth see private patients?
At Whiteway Dental, C/1 Harekrishna Appt., Vasna Barrage Road, Ahmedabad 380007. Call or WhatsApp +91 97255 35090 to book an appointment.
I'm a doctor. How do I refer a patient?
Use the referral form on the For Doctors page, which opens WhatsApp or email with the details filled in. Please include OPG/CBCT, the diagnosis and the treatment done so far.
More detail: maxillofacial prosthetics · cancer rehabilitation · implants & full mouth rehab · TMJ care · your first visit · referring a patient
These answers are general information. Your own situation is best discussed at a consultation.
