S. Taicher

Modified stock-eye ocular prosthesis

A technique for the use of modified prefabricated eyes was described. When properly used, many of the limitations attributed to prefabricated eyes can be overcome. This technique allows the proper positioning of the iris while simultaneously recording an impression of the ocular defect tissue bed. This technique permits the finished ocular prosthesis to generate an equal distribution of pressure throughout the defect, while increasing its movement due to excellent adaptation to the walls of the socket. Although a custom-eye technique may still be necessary for some, most patients can be treated with the modified prefabricated-eye technique with excellent results.

Intercuspal contacts of the natural dentition in centric occlusion

The location of occlusal contacts in the intercuspal position was recorded in 29 young adults, 18 to 20 years of age. All participants had Class I essentially normal occlusion. Dental impressions and wax registration were made in all participants. Occlusal registrations were made of the posterior teeth only on a U-shaped prosthetic frame. Three types of indentation were recorded. Perforation of the wax represented supracontact; a translucent area represented contact; and slight thinning of the wax represented near contact. All three types of indentation were considered as contacts. The most striking finding was the high frequency of contacts on the mandibular first molar, which occurred in more than 20.9% of all contacts recorded. Most of the contacts were on cusps; only a few were in central fossae and marginal ridge areas. A surprising finding was the predominance of supracontacts on the second molars when compared to the remains of the dentition. No logical explanation for this finding can be offered. Morphologically good occlusion did not imply maximum contacts since an ideal occlusal contact was not found in any of the participants. Only serial studies will show whether occlusal relationships are stable throughout life or constantly changing.

Prosthetic treatment of earlobe keloids

An ear clip prosthesis has been developed for maintaining pressure on earlobe keloids before and after surgical removal. The prosthesis includes an ear clip to which heat-polymerized acrylic resin is attached, which covers the keloid area.

Reversible cavernous sinus involvement due to minor dental infection: Report of a case

Described is a case of a cavernous sinus involvement due to minor dental infection. The early dental diagnosis and treatment reversed the course of cavernous sinus thrombosis.

Maxillofacial prosthetics and iontophoresis in management of burned ears

An acrylic resin stent that can be of help for successful iontophoresis of the burned ear has been described. The stent can be prepared in a short time, is simple to construct, and easy to manage.

Use of polydimethylsiloxane subdermal implants for correcting facial deformities in Down's syndrome

The use of polydimethylsiloxane prostheses to improve facial appearance in patients with Downs syndrome is reported. In 1 year, 50 patients were treated with 120 prostheses. A follow-up of 8 to 18 months showed that a low incidence of minor complications occurred. Combined with the satisfactory results experienced, this makes the procedure safe and desirable.

Intraoral radiation carrier for edentulous patients

The principles of fabricating an intraoral radioactive carrier have been described to treat malignant diseases of the oral cavity. The prosthesis provides consistent direction and fixation of the radioactive source into the same location.

Polydimethylsiloxane button obturator for hard palate clefts

A polydimethylsiloxane obturator for hard palate clefts is described. Because it is soft, the obturator uses anatomic undercuts of the nasal cavity for maximum retention and stability. The obturator covers only a small part of the palate. The material is nontoxic and noncarcinogenic.

Restoration of movement to the upper eyelid in facial palsy by an individual gold implant prosthesis

F acial nerve palsy causes lagophtalmia of the upper lid (Fig. 1). In addition to being an esthetic deformity, it may lead to recurrent keratitis, keukoma, conjunctivitis, and even blindness. In facial palsy, overaction of the levator palpebrae muscle is present. Closure of the eye and downward movement of the lid can be achieved by adding weight to the upper lid. This article describes a technique for providing upper lid implants of gold for patients who have experienced facial palsy.

A technique for making a facial moulage under general anesthesia

A technique for making a facial moulage under general anesthesia has been described. Where there is a need to form an impression of the face, especially in handicapped and young patients, the procedure is simple and timesaving.