The step-by-step guide to treatment (pt3)

Why is a mask necessary?

As your treatment takes place over several days we need to make sure that you are positioned in exactly the same place every time. To help both you and us achieve this, we use a plastic mask, which covers the top part of your face.

How is the mouthpiece made?

The entire mask is made with you seated in the treatment chair, which has a three-sided frame around your head. This frame can be adjusted so that, when the removable part is clipped into place, a small metal bar is in a comfortable position for you to bite on. When you are happy with this position the radiographer will place a small amount of soft, green dental compound on the bar and then ask you to bite into it, with your front teeth only. After about two minutes the dental compound will become firm and you will be able to open your mouth and lean back. The radiographer will then remove the frame from around your head.

How is the mask made?

After making the mouthpiece we will move onto the mask itself. A sheet of meshed plastic will be warmed in a hot water-bath, which will soften it. When ready, it will be draped in front of your face (the meshed plastic will not stick to your face or hair). The frame with your mouth-piece on, will then be put back into position and you will be asked to push forward and relocate your teeth into the mouth-bite. When you are comfortably in position, the expert staff will quickly mould the plastic to fit over the bridge of your nose and around your eyes and forehead. Do not worry about breathing because the mask will not cover your nostrils or mouth. The plastic takes just a couple of minutes to set to the shape of your face. When it is ready, the proton radiographer will ask you to open your mouth, lean back and relax once more. The mask and frame are removed and assembled, ready for the Treatment week.

next step

Where can I get more information?

You can contact the Unit Manager, Andrzej, on [email protected] . Please remember that all referrals come through the Specialist Ophthalmologists.