As the prosthetics name implies--facial prosthesis involves using surgery to correct a trauma and/or the addition of a prosthetic device.
Maxillofacial prosthetics is defined as “a subspecialty of prosthodontics that involves rehabilitation of patients with defects or disabilities that were present when born or developed due to disease or trauma.”
“Prostheses are often needed to replace missing areas of bone or tissue and restore oral functions such as swallowing, speech, and chewing. In other instances, a prosthesis for the face or body may be indicated for cosmetic and psychosocial reasons.”
Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Treatment - Surgeons will close cleft openings in the first six months of a child’s life; this initial treatment however does not cure the dental problems that can occur because of cleft lip and cleft palate defects. It is common for teeth in the cleft area to be missing or need to be removed through surgery.
Facial Trauma Reconstruction - The prosthodontist will conduct a thorough examination and take various x-rays to determine the precise condition of the afflicted area and plan a course of action.
Maxillofacial prosthetics corrects a number of issues such as a loss of functionality due to facial trauma or speech and/or feeding impairment due to a cleft lip or cleft palate.
Whether you are an adult cleft patient seeking restoration of missing teeth or you have facial damage that needs reconstruction--we can help at Villa Canyon Prosthodontics.
Scottsdale Prosthodontist Dr. Michael L. Bleeker is a member of the craniofacial team at Barrows, St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Dr. Bleeker also works with a variety of specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery, otolaryngology, and plastic surgery to help restore the esthetics and function of damaged structures.
To schedule a consultation with Scottsdale Prosthodontist Dr. Bleeker, please call 480-306-8510 or click here.
Remember to give your teeth the attention they need today!
