Overview of Maxillofacial Prosthetics

Book excerpt: Maxillofacial defects may be congenital or acquired and may be caused by surgical interventions for neoplasms. Because of the localisations of these defects, aesthetic problems may occur so it becomes impossible for the patients to continue their daily lives. Losing a part of the face or having a congenital defect may play a negative effect on the social life and psychology of the patient. It also affects the function adversely. Maxillofacial prostheses aim is to maintain the health of the hard and soft tissues and to improve the aesthetics of patients. But completing the process is tiring both for the patient and the prosthodontist. There is a large and rapidly growing literature on maxillofacial prosthodontics in clinical practice. In this book, brief descriptions of recent developments in the maxillofacial practice are discussed. References are provided at the end of each chapter and listed alphabetically. For clinicians, this book provides a broad perspective on prosthodontics, their possible applications and interactions between special clinics, and suggestions about future research topics, which will be helpful to their research.Regardless of your background, whether youre a prosthodontist or a plastic surgeon, you will find the book appropriate to your needs. In this book, there are basic principles of maxillofacial prostheses and colouring, and information on patients perspectives on the prosthetic treatment. Also discussed is the importance of the prosthodontist-patient relationship. This book will be a guide for the prosthodontist and their approach to the patients.