This involves the rehabilitation of patients with defects or disabilities that were born (such as cleft lip or palette) or acquired through disease (such as oral cancers) or trauma.

Prostheses are often used to replace missing areas of bone or tissue and restore oral functions such as swallowing, speech and chewing. Prostheses can also be used for cosmetic or psychosocial reasons. Some prosthesis can also be used to shield facial structures during radiation therapy.

Patients that may benefit from maxillofacial prosthodontists include those who have been in an accident or have had surgical removal of diseased tissues or have a neuromuscular disorder from MNDA or a stroke.

It is beneficial for a prosthodontist to be involved in a patient’s care even before any planned surgery to ensure that the final prosthetic options are discussed with patient, diagnostic information for the reconstruction is recorded and surgeons are aware of the prosthetic reconstruction requirements.

For more information on maxillofacial prosthodontics visit the American College of Prosthodontists.