Usefulness of dental implants in maxillofacial reconstruction.

Fabricating maxillofacial prosthesis can be challenging. Placement of implants can have a dramatic effect on the stability and retention of the prosthesis in patients. This article provides clinical retrospective analysis of osseointegrated implants used for maxillofacial reconstruction. Patient charts and radiographs were reviewed to determine implant status, stability of prosthesis, and masticatory and speech function. Of the 104 implants placed, there were 4 implant failures. The overall survival rate for implants in this patient population was 96.1%. The stability of maxillofacial prostheses demonstrated significant improvement after anchorage to implants. Implant-borne maxillofacial prostheses are better stabilized and retained than non-implant-borne prostheses, providing an improved quality of life to patients requiring prosthesis rehabilitation of maxillofacial defects.