Early prosthetic management of mandible using interim guidance appliances in hemimandibulectomy patients: A case series

Abstract

Mandible is the most common site for intraoral tumors which often requires resection of large portions of the mandible depending upon the location and extent of the tumor leading to various complications such as deviation of the mandible toward the resected side and facial disfigurement. Early prosthodontic intervention during the healing period helps in training the muscles and establish an acceptable occlusal relation using guide flange prosthesis (GFP). This article aims to describe the case reports of early prosthodontic management of two patients who underwent partial resection of the mandible due to squamous cell carcinoma using two different GFP: palatal ramp prosthesis and mandibular buccal GFP using an innovative approach. Prosthodontic intervention by guidance therapy serves the purpose of reducing mandibular deviation, preventing extrusion of maxillary teeth, and improving masticatory efficiency. Guidance appliances are the simplest and most commonly used treatment modality in restoring the form and function of the mandible.