Maxillofacial Prosthodontics

Maxillofacial prosthodontics is concerned with the prosthodontic management of patients who present with congenital or acquired problems in the maxillofacial region.

Maxillofacial Prosthodontist work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and are usually Consultants (UK) in Head & Neck cancer centres. Their role involves the fabrication of specialised prostheses such as maxillary obturators which are specialised removable dentures which plug defects in the upper jaw which are caused by the removal of tumours or are present from birth due to cleft palate. They are also involved in the replacement of missing teeth and facial structures such as eyes, ears and noses.

Maxillofacial prosthodontists will often use osseointegrated implants in order to retain parts of the appliance. Treatment is multidisciplinary, involving oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons, ear, nose and throat surgeons, oncologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists.