Muscular reconstruction to improve the deterioration of facial appearance and speech caused by mandibular atrophy: technique and case reports

One of the consequences of severe mandibular atrophy is the loss of attachment of the facial muscles that originate from the alveolar process and basal bone. Another is a loss of vestibular depth and reduction in the width of the attached gingiva. The result is reduced ability to chew, a changed and aged appearance, difficulties with pronunciation, and a reduced range of expressions. The traditional goal of treatment has been to improve the ability to chew. We describe a technique by which all these functions can be improved by a combination of insertion of implants and functional reconstruction of the facial muscles and position of the lips. When the muscles are repositioned, the buccal vestibule is deepened, and the incidence of gingival hyperplasia and infrabony pockets along the posts is eliminated. This treatment, which also rejuvenates the face and improves the ability to speak, should help to overcome the loss of self-confidence and self-esteem of these patients by improving their quality of life.