An intraoral-extraoral combination prosthesis using an intermediate framework and magnets: a clinical report.

intraoral communication. Marunick et al1 classified midfacial defects into 2 major categories: midline midfacial defects, which include the nose and/or upper lip; and lateral defects, which include the cheek and orbital contents. Combinations of these 2 categories also exist. Acquired midfacial defects often present with severe disfigurement and functional impairment. Large defects that result from cancer treatment rarely are rehabilitated by surgical reconstruction alone; they usually require a facial prosthesis to restore function and appearance. In addition, an intraoral prosthesis such as an obturator is often needed to restore speech and swallowing. Fabrication of an extraoral facial prosthesis challenges the artistic ability of the prosthodontist. Retention of the prosthesis is also a difficult problem because of its size and weight; securing it in place can be a formidable task. This clinical report describes the rehabilitation of a large midfacial defect with a 3-piece prosthesis that included a sectional intraoral obturator–extraoral facial prosthesis and an intermediate retentive acrylic framework with the use of magnets.