Magnet-retained facial prosthesis combined with maxillary obturator

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Prosthetics
• Biomaterials in Dentistry
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Midfacial defects present significant challenges for prosthodontists, impacting both function and aesthetics.
• Existing prosthetic solutions often struggle to fully restore speech, mastication, and swallowing.
• Extraoral-intraoral defects require specialized and integrated rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a clinical case report on the prosthetic rehabilitation of a complex midfacial defect.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of a novel two-piece prosthesis with magnetic connections.
• To evaluate the functional and esthetic outcomes of this innovative prosthetic solution.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a custom two-piece prosthesis designed to bridge an extraoral-intraoral defect.
• Integration of magnetic connectors for secure and retrievable prosthesis placement.
• Clinical evaluation of the prosthesis's impact on speech, mastication, swallowing, and patient satisfaction.

Main Results:

• The magnetically connected two-piece prosthesis successfully restored the midfacial defect.
• Significant improvements were observed in the patient's speech clarity.
• Marked enhancements in mastication, swallowing function, and overall facial aesthetics were achieved.

Conclusions:

• A two-piece, magnetically connected prosthesis offers a viable and effective solution for complex midfacial defects.
• This prosthetic approach dramatically improves functional capabilities and esthetic outcomes.
• Magnetic retention provides a secure and manageable option for patients with extensive oro-facial defects.