Materials Used in Maxillofacial Prosthodontics

Three factors are necessary in evolving a successful prosthetic facial replacement: (1) Creative ability, (2) Technical knowledge, and (3) Materials which will allow the prosthodontist to fully exploit these talents. Because of deficiencies in certain properties of the materials now available, often the desired result is not obtained regardless of technical knowledge or creative ability.A number of materials are available and have been used for facial prosthesis. These include wax, wood, metals and polymers. While the new materials exhibited some excellent properties, they also have some frustrating deficiencies. This is an attempt throw light on the available maxillofacial materials and its advantages and disadvantages.