Maxillofacial prosthetic materials: current status and recent advances: A comprehensive review

Body abnormalities or defects that compromise form, function and esthetics are sufficient to render an individual incapable of leading a normal life. Maxillofacial disfigurement can be the result of a congenital anomaly, trauma or tumour surgery. Multiple times due to size, location of the defect or because of patient’s medical condition surgical reconstruction may not be possible so prosthetic rehabilitation is indicated in these cases. But the success of prosthetic rehabilitation is largely determined by the physical and mechanical properties of the material used. Materials commonly used these days for fabrication of facial prostheses are acrylic resins, acrylic copolymers, vinyl polymers, polyurethane elastomers and silicone elastomers. There has always been a quest for a maxillofacial prosthetic material that closely matches the defect tissues in appearance and properties. This article focuses on historical background, changing trends and future aspects of various materials used in rehabilitation of maxillofacial defects with their limitations and modifications.