Dental and bony changes following subtotal glossectomy for cancer: A clinical report

The impact of tongue size and forces on surrounding tissues have been described, but clinical reports on the influence on dentoalveolar structures after glossectomy for cancer are lacking. This report describes the dental and bony changes after subtotal glossectomy for squamous cell carcinoma by comparing 3-dimensional models generated from computed tomography scans at various time points during the clinical course. Surface comparison showed lingual tipping of the teeth and areas of bone surface remodeling on the alveolar bone, basilar bone, coronoid process, and condyles. Early denture planning or splinting teeth before glossectomy could be encouraged in some patients, and clinical studies are recommended.