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

The prosthetic rehabilitation of a patient with a combined intraoral-extraoral defect has been presented. A 3-piece prosthesis that included a denture obturator, a facial prosthesis, and an intermediate framework was fabricated. Magnets were incorporated into each unit and, in conjunction with the intermediate framework, helped retain each segment of the prosthesis. Although it has been shown that osseointegrated implants can restore dentition and aid in the retention of extraoral prostheses, radiation to the area precluded their use in this patient, and an alternative method for retention was required. The intermediate framework and magnets provided satisfactory retention for the prosthesis. The patient remained on a gastric feeding tube for 8 weeks after the completion of the prosthodontic treatment. Otolaryngologists and speech and swallowing therapists approved the removal of the feeding tube. The patient was able to maintain 100% of his weight with a soft diet and liquid nutritional supplement ingested by mouth. Cosmetic improvement as well as the ability to speak, swallow, and to a lesser degree, chew, were achieved for this patient.