Prosthodontic Rehabilitation for Total Glossectomy with a Magnetic Detachable Mandibular Tongue Prosthesis: A Clinical Report

Abstract

Total glossectomy can result in significant functional impairments in mastication, swallowing, and speech. In addition to these functional problems, severe psychological problems may follow complete loss of the tongue. Placement of a mandibular tongue prosthesis obturates this large defect, increases the patient's ability to produce intelligible sounds, and assists with a return to a normal diet. Prosthetic rehabilitation can also improve the user's appearance and psychosocial adjustment. This clinical report describes a magnetically attached two-piece tongue prosthesis used to treat a patient who underwent total glossectomy.