| Dr. Steinberg is a member of the American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthetics. The Academy is devoted to the study and practice of methods used to habilitate esthetics and function of patients with acquired, congenital and developmental defects of the head and neck. Maxillofacial prosthetic treatment is indicated for patients with facial injuries, people with acquired and congenital defects of the head and neck region, or for those who are suffering from functional or aesthetic conditions of the facial areas.
What is Maxillofacial Prosthetics?
Maxillofacial prosthetics is a sub-specialty of prosthodontics pertaining to the rehabilitation of patients with acquired and congenital defects of the head and neck region. This special service involves the design and fabrication of facial parts such as ears, noses and eyes. With the development of titanium dental implants, prostheses for the face and adjacent structures can now be securely anchored to bone.
Maxillofacial prosthetic treatment ranges from simple intra-oral obturators to complex extra-oral, implant-type prostheses to restore oral functions and appearance. Maxillofacial prosthetics gives new hope to patients in need of these prostheses and has revolutionized the field of prosthodontics. Facial parts are mechanically secured to bone-anchored implants, making the prostheses more retentive, stable, aesthetic, and durable. Dr. Steinberg works closely with surgeons, oncologists and paramedical personnel in the rehabilitation of maxillofacial patients.
Possible Alternative to Plastic Surgery
While maxillofacial prosthetic treatment is not really a substitute for plastic surgery, in certain circumstances it may be an alternative. Certain patients may simply not be good candidates for plastic surgery because of their advanced age, poor health, very large deformity, or because of poor blood supply to irradiated tissue. Maxillofacial prosthetics is indicated when anatomical parts of the head or neck are not replaceable by living tissue, when recurrence of malignancy is likely, when radiotherapy is being administered, or when fragments of facial bones are severely displaced in a fracture.
If you're not sure whether maxillofacial prosthetic treatment can help you,
just give us a call at (520) 886-3030 or schedule a Free Consultation. |
