Application of Digital Technology in Fabricating Facial Prostheses

Abstract

The conventional facial impression can be uncomfortable for patients and the weight of the impression material can cause inaccuracy in fabricating the facial prosthesis. Furthermore, professional training or skill is required to reconstruct the missing facial curvature in detail. The material properties of silicone require refabrication of the facial prosthesis more often compared to intraoral prosthesis. Therefore, facial prostheses should be simple to fabricate, both for clinicians as well as patients.
On the other hand, 3D modeling techniques have been applied to restorative dentistry and implant prostheses. Our group has developed a novel system of fabricating facial prostheses using 3D modeling technology. Digital facial impressions enable the facial mold to be fabricated more easily. Designing of the facial prosthesis can be simplified by using CAD software. Fabricating the negative mold of the facial prosthesis is achieved by a rapid prototyping system.
Clinical application of this system encourages the patient to regain their social life and also improves their quality of life. We outline our method as well as other applications such as a system for simulating facial prosthetic treatment.