Facial trauma can be life-changing. Not only does it affect a person’s appearance, but it also interferes with their ability to eat, speak, and even breathe as they should. Thankfully, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are capable of assessing the situation and determining the best way to surgically treat all areas involved—face, mouth, and jaw.
Oral surgeons understand that while the first goal may be to restore functionality, they cannot overlook aesthetics, as well. Let’s take a closer look at their role in reconstructing facial trauma.
What is Facial Trauma?
Facial trauma refers to the injury of the face, teeth, or jaw. It can happen playing sports, in a car accident, a slip and fall, or even a physical assault. While the injuries may vary in degree, patients may present with:
- Fractured cheekbones, jaw, or eye sockets
- Knocked out or broken teeth
- Lacerations or burns to the gums, cheek, tongue, or lips
- Injured bones surrounding the nasal cavity or forehead
Getting treatment right away is essential for facial trauma, or else complications, disfigurement, chronic pain, and more may result.
The Role of an Oral Surgeon
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dentists, but they have special training that allows them to have a deep understanding of the complex anatomy of the face. They are successful at treating both hard and soft tissue injuries with precision, improving their patients’ overall quality of life.
Here’s a glimpse of what they do.
Emergency and Reconstructive Care
Many times, facial trauma is an emergency. It requires these professionals to work quickly and stabilize patients so that the extent of the damage doesn’t increase. Sometimes, reconstructing facial structures will require working closely with other medical professionals, such as an ENT doctor, ophthalmologist, and plastic surgeon.
Although they may jump in immediately to gain stability, reconstructive care is often a long-term process.
Restoring Function and Appearance
Oral surgeons work diligently to help their patients restore the proper function of their mouth and jaw. However, they do not do this without taking into consideration the need for restoring a natural appearance. The method in which they approach each patient addresses both of these situations.
Dental Rehabilitation
Oral surgeons also handle trauma that involves the jawbone and the teeth themselves. They are trained to replace missing teeth with dental implants, rebuild oral structures, secure restorations, and repair jaw fractures.
Every aspect of facial trauma is accounted for by oral surgeons. In other words, they play a significant role in helping patients find healing after an injury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Facial Trauma
Does facial trauma require multiple surgeries?
Depending on how complex the facial trauma is, multiple surgeries may be necessary to achieve full restoration. Your oral surgeon will be able to give you a breakdown and timeline of what you can expect for your personal needs.
How soon after an injury should I see an oral surgeon?
Injuries involving facial trauma should be addressed as soon as possible. Immediate treatment can prevent complications and lead to better outcomes.
At Costello Oral Surgery Associates, we are committed to helping patients recover from facial trauma with expert care and compassion. Our board-certified surgeons combine advanced techniques with a deep understanding of facial anatomy. This allows us to restore form and function—and change lives. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.