maxillofacial

Maxillofacial is an anatomical and medical term that pertains to the maxilla and the structures of the face. The word combines maxilla, the upper jaw bone, with facialis, meaning of the face. In clinical use, maxillofacial describes the region that includes the jaws, mouth, midface, and associated soft tissues and neurovascular structures.

Maxillofacial surgery is a recognized medical specialty that addresses diseases, injuries, and defects of the facial skeleton and soft tissues. Practitioners may be trained as dentists or physicians and complete additional specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The field covers a range of activities, including trauma management of facial fractures, orthognathic (jaw) surgery, reconstructive procedures after cancer or congenital deformities, management of dentoalveolar problems such as impacted teeth and cysts, dental implants with bone grafting, and, in some settings, facial aesthetic procedures.

Diagnostic and imaging modalities common in maxillofacial care include panoramic radiography, computed tomography and cone-beam CT, MRI for soft tissues, and ultrasound in certain cases. Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach with dentists, otolaryngologists, plastic surgeons, radiologists, and anesthesiologists. In many regions, the scope includes both functional rehabilitation (breathing, chewing, speech) and cosmetic considerations, with a focus on restoring form and function while maintaining facial harmony.