What is Facial Trauma
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are trained to manage all kinds of facial trauma. There are a number of possible causes of facial trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, accidental falls, work-related injuries, and interpersonal violence. Here, at Norris Oral and Facial Surgery we possess an extensive experience in treating facial trauma.
How We Treat Facial Trauma
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Soft tissue injuries: The lacerations on the face are repaired by suturing. In addition to the obvious concern of providing a repair that yields the best cosmetic result, care is taken to inspect and treat injuries of other structures such as facial nerves, salivary glands and ducts.
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Fractures of facial bones: Facial fractures are treated in much the same manner as their counterparts throughout the rest of the body. Treatment is determined by various factors including location of the fracture, severity, age and general health of the patient. Often the best treatment is to stabilize the fractures by the surgical placement of small plates and screws at the involved site(s), better known as rigid fixation, allowing for much quicker return to normal function. The treatment of facial fractures is accomplished in a thorough and predictable manner, with the patient’s facial appearance being minimally affected. An attempt at accessing the facial bones through the fewest incisions necessary is always made. At the same time, the incisions that become necessary are designed to be small and, whenever possible, are placed so that the resultant scar is hidden.
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Fractures of Teeth and Supporting Bone: Fractures in the supporting bone or luxated/ displaced teeth are treated by splinting (stabilizing by wiring). The sooner the tooth is re-inserted into the dental socket, the better chance it will survive. Therefore, the patient should see an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon as soon as possible. Other dental specialists, such as endodontist, may be asked to perform root canal therapy, and a restorative dentist, who may need to rebuild fractured tooth.
Where We Treat Facial Trauma
Depending on the complexity of the facial trauma, surgical treatment may be performed in the office or in a hospital setting.
