Overdentures in the maxillofacial prosthetics practice. Part I: The cancer patient.

The myriad of interacting disciplines and treatments for patients suffering from oral cancer can dramatically influence the planning for dental treatment. Retention of periodontally involved or structurally hopeless teeth is often necessary, if not required, in the rehabilitation phase, making the integration of overdentures into the treatment plan a viable consideration. The potential for increased retention and stability of the final prosthesis with the use of such abutments may be the most critical factor in providing a successful prosthesis. Whether the ultimate prosthesis is temporary or definitive, simple or highly complex, the compromised oral cancer patient will often benefit from the use of overdentures.