ABSTRACT
Soft and hard tissue defects of the cranio- and maxillofacial area, especially after
an avulsion injury, are challenging to reconstruct. Sophisticated soft and hard tissue
transfer techniques have allowed satisfactory reconstruction of the gross anatomic
structure. However, these methods do not allow optimal restoration of fine anatomic
detail or function. The advent of dental implants and modified dental implants for
craniofacial applications has allowed maximization of cosmetic and functional restoration.
Prosthodontists are capable of fabricating subunits of the cranio- and maxillofacial
area with fine detail, reproducing the coloring, texture, and idiosyncrasies of a
patient's native skin. Dental implant technology has allowed these prostheses to be
bone anchored, yielding a reproducible and stable attachment. This method of attachment
in turn allows flexibility in the design of the prosthesis, to maximize restoration,
and imparts an increased sense of confidence to the patient. Illustrated are six examples
demonstrating the versatility of dental implants in the reconstruction of avulsion
injuries of the cranio- and maxillofacial complex.
KEYWORD
implants - craniofacial prosthesis - avulsion injuries
