Maxillofacial prosthetics focuses on reconstruction of the upper and lower jaws as well as facial anatomy for patients who may have cancer, birth defects or trauma to those areas. It involves restoration or replacement, or both, of head and neck structures with prostheses that may or may not be removed on a regular or elective basis.
Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
Orthopedics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. This requires professionals skilled in the design, application and control of corrective appliances, including braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve overall facial balance.
Periodontists are dentists specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases involving the gums and bone surrounding the teeth, the mucosal tissues of the mouth, placement and maintenance of dental implants, bone regeneration, and esthetic soft tissue management of teeth and implants.
Prosthodontics pertains to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of people who have conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth or maxillofacial tissues, or both. Prosthodontists work closely with a multispecialty team, including periodontics, orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and other specialties when needed.
