Plate and screw fixation in the management of mandible fractures.

The use of compression plates and screws in the management of mandibular fractures is a reliable method of producing rigid internal fixation and a functionally stable fracture site. Early mandibular function is possible, resulting in a decrease in intermaxillary fixation time, improved oral hygiene and nutrition, and maintenance of normal neuromuscular physiology. Compression osteosynthesis results in primary bone healing, which has been shown to hasten osseous regeneration. With adherence to strict technical details and the use of sound clinical judgment, compression plate and screw techniques provide for a predictable method in the treatment of mandible fractures.