When an individual is missing a portion of the jaw, oral cavity or face due to tumor surgery, trauma or a birth condition, surgery is a common way to restore function and appearance. However, when surgery alone cannot achieve these goals, a maxillofacial prosthesis may be required.
The maxillofacial prosthodontist creates artificial replacements, or prostheses, of the oral cavity that help restore speech, chewing, swallowing and appearance. Each prosthesis is custom-made for the patient and may be permanently fixed to the patient with dental implants or a removable prosthesis depending on a patient’s specific condition. The maxillofacial prosthodontist, with the help of an Anaplastologist, also may create artificial replacements of the face, such as the nose, ear or face prostheses. The facial prostheses are attached with adhesives or with dental implants and magnets or clips.
Among the Conditions We Treat:
- Oral and facial trauma
- Benign or malignant tumors of the mouth or face
- Advanced implant prosthetic reconstructions
- Cleft lip and palate
- Ectodermal dysplasia and other genetically related disorders
- Other custom prostheses
Referrals
We are a REFFERAL service only. A physician must fax the appropriate referral to our department (FAX: 206-685-9654) .
What to expect at your visit
At your first visit, you will receive a comprehensive head and neck and oral examination. This may include taking photographs and x-rays. It may also include referrals to other specialized caregivers for their consultation and evaluation. All this information will be collected to develop a comprehensive short- and long-term care plan to meet each patient’s specific needs.
The plan will be reviewed with you before any treatment begins. As is necessary, we will apply for preauthorization of your treatment plan by your insurance companies in hopes of getting them to assist you with the expenses of these prostheses.
Length of treatment will vary depending on the degree of difficulty and extent of the prosthetic treatment or reconstruction.