maksillofacialprotetiker

Maksillofacialprotetiker is a healthcare professional who specializes in the design, fabrication and fitting of prosthetic devices for the maxillofacial region. The role covers both intraoral prostheses, such as obturators and removable dentures, and extraoral facial prostheses, including artificial noses, ears, lips and eyelids. The aim is to restore form, function and appearance for patients who have lost structures due to cancer treatment, trauma, congenital conditions or other disease processes.

Typical duties include assessing a patient’s needs, taking impressions and measurements, selecting appropriate materials, and computer-aided design and manual fabrication of the prosthesis. The prothetist conducts trials, adjusts fit and colour, and ensures proper retention with adhesives, magnets or implants where appropriate. After delivery, they provide guidance on maintenance, repairs and periodic follow-up to address wear, changes in tissue or patient comfort.

Materials and techniques commonly used are silicone elastomers for facial prostheses and acrylic resins or nylon for intraoral devices. Aesthetic matching of skin tone and contour, as well as functional considerations such as speech, swallowing and mastication, are central to the work. Technological tools may include 3D scanning and modelling to enhance precision.

Maksillofacialprotetikers often work in hospital departments, cancer centres or specialized clinics, collaborating with maxillofacial surgeons, oncologists, speech therapists and dental technicians. The profession requires a background in dentistry or dental technology, with further specialized training in maxillofacial prosthetics and licensure or certification according to national regulations.