Advanced Impression Techniques for Complex Maxillofacial Tissue Defects

This study aims to evaluate the various traditional, digital, and hybrid impression workflows in maxillofacial prosthodontics. It addresses the research question of how modern digital advancements overcome the limitations in accuracy, material waste, and data storage that are inherent in conventional techniques for complex intraoral and extraoral defects. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Ninety-three English-language articles evaluating impression workflows for extraoral and intraoral prostheses were identified and analyzed. While conventional materials remain highly accessible and clinically useful, digital workflows, utilizing intraoral scanning, three-dimensional photogrammetry, and computer-aided workflows, offer superior precision for complex defects, streamline data storage, and allow virtual modifications. For implant-supported prostheses, both workflows demonstrate comparable accuracy. Hybrid approaches combining both techniques maximize outcomes in highly challenging scenarios. Although digital technologies present higher initial infrastructure costs and require specialized training, upcoming advancements in artificial intelligence-assisted design are expected to further transform the field. Digital and hybrid workflows significantly advance maxillofacial prosthodontics by improving precision and data management over traditional methods. Clinicians must understand the distinct indications and limitations of both approaches to deliver individualized, efficient, and optimized rehabilitative care tailored to diverse patient needs.