Splints & Stents

Internal or the maxillofacial defects result from congenital abnormalities, trauma, tumor excision, and complications of cosmetic or airway enhancement procedures. Surgical and/or prosthetic procedures using prostheses, splints, or stents have been developed to improve both form and function. Intraoral prostheses, splints, and stents during particularly during nasal rehabilitation can (1) establish and maintain airway patency, (2) maintain tissue position, (3) reduce tissue contracture after surgery, or (4) support mobile tissue in the construction and retention of facial prostheses. Although techniques for managing common problems have been presented in this book, unique clinical situations will arise. Much of the execution and ultimate success of maxillofacial prosthetics will depend upon the ingenuity of the dentist performing the service.