Preoperative and immediate postoperative obturators.

The prostheses described evolve from preoperative to immediate to transitional, and the distinction between them is not clearly defined. How long the temporary stage should be maintained depends upon the rapidity of healing of the defect and the judgment of the prosthodontist. Usually, healing is complete 3 to 6 months following surgery, and a definitive obturator may then be constructed. Construction, modification, and insertion of preoperative and immediate postoperative obturators for patients after partial and total maxillectomies were discussed. The purpose of an immediate obturator is to shorten the recovery period of the patient and restore speech, deglutition, and appearance as soon as possible after surgery.