OMS Procedures

Facial Trauma

 

Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons are trained, skilled and uniquely qualified to manage and treat facial trauma. Injuries to the face, by their very nature, impart a high degree of emotional, as well as physical trauma to patients. The science and art of treating these injuries requires special training involving a “hands on” experience and an understanding of how the treatment provided will influence the patient's long term function and appearance.
 

The Nature Of Maxillofacial Trauma

 
There can be many possible causes of facial trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, accidental falls or work related injuries. Types of facial trauma are typically classified as either soft tissue injuries, bone injuries or injuries to special area injuries, such as the facial nerves or salivary glands. They may include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

  • Facial lacerations
  • Intra oral lacerations
  • Avulsed (knocked out) teeth
  • Fractured facial bones (cheek, nose or eye socket)
  • Fractured jaws (upper and lower jaw)

Soft Tissue Injuries Of The Maxillofacial Region

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 repair that yields the best cosmetic result possible, care is taken to inspect for and treat injuries to structures such as facial nerves, salivary glands, and salivary ducts (or outflow channels). Dr. Angell  is proficient at diagnosing and treating all types of facial lacerations.

Fractures Of The Maxillofacial Region

When facial fractures occur, the specific type of treatment is determined by many factors such as the location of the fracture, the severity of the fracture, the patient's age and general health.
 
Fractures of the bones of the face are treated in a manner similar to the fractures in other parts of the body. However, 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 best treated and stabilized by the surgical placement of small plates and screws at the involved site. This technique of treatment can often allow for healing and obviates the necessity of having the jaws wired together. This technique is called "rigid fixation" of a fracture. The relatively recent development and use of rigid fixation has profoundly improved the recovery period for many patients, allowing them to return to normal function more quickly.
 
It is most important that the treatment will provide the patient with the best result in function and that the patient's facial appearance be as minimally affected as possible.
 
 
Injuries To The Teeth & Surrounding Dental Structures
 
Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons are trained in treating fractures in the supporting dental structures or in replanting teeth that have been displaced or knocked out. If a tooth is knocked out it should be placed in salt water or milk. Never attempt to wipe the tooth off, since remnants of the ligament that hold the tooth in the jaw may be attached and will be needed if the tooth is to be successfully replanted in the mouth. The sooner the tooth is replanted into the dental socket, the better chance it will survive. The patient should see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. Other dental specialists may be involved to ensure the success of this process. In the event a tooth cannot be saved or repaired, a dental implant may be a viable option for tooth replacement.