Facial Trauma

There are a number of possible causes of facial trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, accidental falls, sports injuries, interpersonal violence, and work-related injuries. Types of facial injuries can range from tooth injuries to extremely severe injuries of the skin and bones of the face. Typically, facial injuries are classified as either soft tissue injuries (skin and gums), or bone injuries (fractures).

Injuries to the Teeth

The first 30 minutes after an injury offers the greatest chance to save the tooth.  If the tooth has been knocked out, you must act quickly. If possible, it is best to bring the tooth in a container of saliva or whole milk. If your tooth cannot be saved, Dr. Thomas will discuss your options such as a dental implant to replace the tooth.

Soft Tissue Injuries

When soft tissue injuries such as lacerations occur on the face, they are repaired by suturing. In addition to the obvious concern of providing a cosmetic repair, care is taken to inspect for and treat injuries to structures such as facial nerves, salivary glands, and salivary ducts.

Injuries to the Bone of the Face

Fractures of the bones of the face are treated in a manner similar to the fractures in other parts of the body. The specific form of treatment is determined by various factors, which include the location of the fracture, the severity of the fracture, the age, and general health of the patient. When an arm or a leg is fractured, a cast is often applied to stabilize the bone to allow for proper healing. Since a cast cannot be placed on the face, other means have been developed to stabilize facial fractures.  One of these options involves wiring the jaws together for certain fractures of the upper and/or lower jaw. Certain other types of fractures of the jaw are effectively treated and stabilized by the surgical placement of small plates and screws at the involved site. This technique often allows for healing and obviates the necessity of having the jaws wired together.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are skilled and trained to manage and treat facial trauma. Injuries to the face impart a high degree of emotional, as well as physical trauma to patients. Treatment considerations must take into account how it will influence the patient’s long-term function and appearance. Dr. Thomas is on staff at a local hospital qualified to manage and treat facial trauma. include the following conditions:

  • Facial lacerations

  • Intraoral lacerations

  • Avulsed (knocked out) teeth

  • Fractured facial bones (cheek, nose or eye socket)

  • Fractured jaws (upper and lower jaw)

While we can treat many facial trauma injuries at our practice, an injury that is severe, extensive, or occurs after normal business hours should be treated at the nearest emergency room by the on-call oral surgeon.

In the event of a facial injury, contact our office for treatment.