Maxillofacial abnormalities are the most deleterious to a person's self-esteem and quality of life. Restoration of speech, deglutition, and masticatory functions as well as achieving a normal orofacial appearance are the main objectives of rehabilitation of maxillofacial defects. Any prosthesis can be held in place by anatomical, mechanical, chemical, or surgical anchorage, depending on the clinical scenario. Various methods of retention have evolved over a period of time. Osseointegrated implants have been employed to enhance the retention of facial prosthesis, in the last 20 years. The prosthodontist should be familiar with all the available options, to opt for the appropriate retentive method, while planning for the prosthetic rehabilitation for the patient. In all cases of maxillofacial deformities, optimal outcomes could be a challenging task to accomplish, but careful evaluation, clinical decision-making, and planning can result in prosthesis of acceptable quality that might enhance the patient's quality of life.
The concept of making an impression has undergone a paradigm shift as a result of the development of highly accurate and novel impression systems based on new technologies.1 Digital intraoral imaging represents a cutting-edge technique that allows the dentist to create a virtual computer-generated replica of the hard and soft tissues. Digital impression-making techniques are highly accurate, and they will undoubtedly lessen the need for traditional techniques in the near future. The information is stored in specialized software to be utilized in the manufacture of appliances, positive replicas, or other restorations. Additionally, this makes it possible to access data at any moment for further research and follow-ups. The future of digital dentistry is bright, but there is still work to be done to make sure that the technology delivers significant benefits to practitioners and patients in terms of therapeutic outcomes, regardless of how beautiful the process itself maybe. At the same time, it must be kept affordable and investments should yield a solid return.1
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