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Oral and Maxillofacial Prosthetics

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WHAT IS A MAXILLOFACIAL PROSTHODONTIST?

Prosthodontists have completed three years of residency beyond four or five years of dental school. Following that, they may continue to study oral and maxillofacial prosthetics, which is subspecialty of prosthodontics that involves rehabilitation of patients with defects or disabilities that were present at birth or developed due to disease or trauma later in life.

Prostheses are often needed to replace missing areas of bone or tissue and restore oral functions such as swallowing, speech, and chewing. In other instances, a prosthesis for the face or body may be indicated for functional, cosmetic, and psychosocial reasons.

Prosthetic devices may also be designed to position or shield facial structures during radiation therapy. Patients that typically desire prosthetic care are people who have been in an accident, have had surgical removal of diseased tissues, or have a neuromuscular disorder from ALS or a stroke.

Maxillofacial prosthodontists usually work closely with ENTs, oral surgeons, orthodontists, pediatric dentists, plastic surgeons, neurologists, radiation oncologists, speech pathologists, anaplastologists, and various ancillary personnel. The overall goal of maxillofacial prosthetic treatment is to improve the quality of life.

SOME EXAMPLES OF INTRAORAL PROSTHESES ARE:

OBTURATORS. These cover the palate after partial or total loss of the maxilla or due to cleft palate. An obturator restores teeth and gums and includes an extension which closes the defect or hole to enable proper swallowing, eating, chewing, and speaking.

PALATAL LIFT PROSTHESES. These help the soft palate assume the correct position for speech.

PALATAL AUGMENTATION (Drop) PROSTHESES. These alter the palate for speech, especially among patients who have difficulty speaking due to stroke, or have had part of their tongue removed due to trauma or tumor.

MANDIBULAR RESECTION PROSTHESES. Replace a portion of the jaw that has been lost and restore gums and teeth.

FLUORIDE CARRIER. This is a tray used to fill fluoride gel for patients who suffer dry mouth from medications, radiation therapy, or certain medical conditions. Helps to strengthen, protect, and preserve compromised teeth.

SOME EXAMPLES OF EXTRAORAL PROSTHESES ARE:

  • Ocular prosthesis
  • Orbital prosthesis
  • Auricular prosthesis
  • Nasal prosthesis
  • Midfacial prosthesis
  • Somatic prosthesis
  • Radiation shield
What our patients are saying 
Dr. Raina has been an outstanding orthodontist for me! I needed upper and lower braces as an adult and she made the entire process a fantastic experience! The entire office staff is so kind, patient, and personable! Another plus is having my dentist, Dr. Nodesh, in the same office so cleanings and routine dental checkups could overlap on the same day as orthodontic appointments.
Rhonda J
I’ve been going here for nearly 35 years, and that isn’t going to change anytime soon. The staff is very professional and friendly.
Will H.
Very friendly and collegial staff. Dr. Nodesh was very kind and explained me my treatment plan in detail. Highly recommended
Shilpa D
 Best most thorough and least pain giving dentist I’ve ever experienced. I am 74 years old, blessed with excellent teeth and am particular about them. The office is equipped with the latest medical equipment and accessories. If you are in the market for a new dentist, this is the place. 
Amos A.
Dr. Nodesh and his staff are great. I have never had a dentist who is more meticulous and committed to making sure everything is done correctly and looks great. Thanks Doc
Dorri K.
"I have been a long time patient of Beaches Dentistry. I HIGHLY recommend this practice. My experience includes both routine cleaning and checkups..."
Russ
"So kind, endlessly chatty (which I love), intelligent, funny, and engaging. They obviously love their jobs! And their attitude is infectious."
Win C.
"Dr Nodesh at Beaches Dentistry is amazing! He explains the treatment plan clearly and answers all questions before he commences. Never in a rush."
Nasrin R.
"I could not be happier thus far with my past 3 visits to Beaches Dental. Dr Nodesh has a relaxed, yet professional bedside manner."
Alicia C.
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Our Location

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Beaches Dentistry - Prosthodontics & Orthodontics

324 3rd Ave N,
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM