JIDAM
"An Official Journal of IDA - Madras
Branch" ©2019.
Available online
Retention of maxillofacial prostheses is a critical factor influencing functional stability, esthetics, patient comfort, and overall quality of life. The success of a prosthesis depends on proper fit, material properties, and the method of retention, ensuring stability during speech, mastication, and facial expressions. Retention strategies are broadly categorized into adhesives, prosthesis design modifications, and attachment systems. Adhesive systems—including acrylic, silicone, and rubber-based formulations—provide non-invasive retention but may require frequent reapplication. Prosthesis design modifications exploit anatomical undercuts, extensions, or accessories for mechanical retention, suitable for patients unable to undergo surgery. Attachment systems—including bar-and-clip mechanisms, magnetic attachments, and ball/O-ring systems—offer robust and predictable retention, particularly for large or complex defects, although they require surgical intervention. This review critically evaluates each retention modality, emphasizing clinical applications, advantages, limitations, and future trends. Comparative tables highlight practical considerations, enabling clinicians to select optimal retention strategies tailored to individual patients. Hybrid approaches combining adhesives with implants, advanced biomaterials, and digital prosthetic design offer promising avenues for improving long-term outcomes.
Maxillofacial prosthodontics; Prosthesis retention; Adhesive retention systems; Prosthesis design modification; Attachment systems; Bar-and-clip attachments; Magnetic attachments; Ball and O-ring attachments; Implant-retained prostheses; Facial prostheses; Mechanical retention; Esthetics and function; Patient comfort; Digital prosthetic design; Hybrid retention approaches.
Volume No: 12, Issue No: 4