Maxillofacial Prosthetics
Maxillofacial prosthetics is a subspecialty of prosthodontics that focuses on the rehabilitation of patients with defects or disabilities involving the head and neck (craniofacial region), due to:
- Cancer surgery
- Trauma/injury
- Congenital conditions (e.g., cleft palate)
- Infections or diseases
These prosthetics are designed to restore function (speaking, chewing, swallowing), aesthetics, and psychological well-being.
🧩 Types of Maxillofacial Prostheses:
| Prosthesis Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Obturator | Closes defects in the palate (e.g., after cancer surgery) |
| Mandibular Prosthesis | Replaces jaw segments lost to trauma or tumors |
| Facial Prosthesis | Replaces facial parts (e.g., nose, eye, ear) |
| Speech Aids | Improves speech in patients with velopharyngeal dysfunction |
| Radiation Carriers | Helps in precise radiation therapy delivery |
| Ocular Prosthesis | Replaces the eyeball (not vision, but appearance) |
