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The use of synthetic materials to repair craniofacial defects is increasing today and will increase further in the future. Because of the complexity of the anatomy in the head and neck region, reconstruction and augmentation of this area pose a challenge to the surgeon. This review discusses key facts and applications of traditional reconstruction bone substitutes, also offering comparative information. It then describes the properties and clinical applications of bioactive-glass (B-G) and its variants in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and provides clinical findings. The discussion of each compound includes a description of its composition and structure, the advantages and shortcomings of the material, and its current uses in the field of osteoplastic and reconstructive surgery. With a better understanding of the available alloplastic implants, the surgeon can make a more informed decision as to which implant would be most suitable in a particular patient.