Traumas to the face, also called maxillofacial injuries, refer to any damage to the mouth, face and jaw. Most of these types of traumas are the results of car accidents, on-the-job misfortunes, personal physical violence, sports damage or a random mishap. Oral surgeons treat facial injuries that involve teeth, the jaw, the mouth, skin and bones. 

The maxillofacial surgeons at the office of Bellevue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery are experts in emergency care, acute treatment, long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation. They are also uniquely qualified to manage ways to help their patients cope with the emotional suffering that accompanies many of those ordeals. 

Injuries to the teeth and surrounding structures may require the expertise of other types of dental specialists, such as endodontists and dentists who specialize in restoration. Oral surgeons’ roles involve fractures to the supporting bone, or replanted teeth that were displaced or knocked out. 

When treating injuries to the face’s soft tissues, such as exterior and oral lacerations, oral surgeons stitch the tissues in manners that will produce the best cosmetic results. Maxillofacial surgeons also tend to injuries to the nerves, underlying structures, and the salivary glands and ducts. 

The treatment of fractured cheeks, nose, jaw and eye sockets starts with stabilization tactics. An oral surgeon might employ the rigid fixation method. A jaw is stabilized by the surgical placement of small plates and screws, which lets the bone heal. It’s not as constricting as when the jaws are wired together, which is another treatment option.

The oral surgeons at the office of Bellevue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery decide the best course of treatment base on the fracture’s severity and location, as well as the patients’ age and overall health. The ultimate goal is to minimize or eliminate the visual indications of the injury, and to give the face and mouth as much as possible of their previous functions. 

Our skilled surgeons are aware of and appreciate how acute facial and oral injuries can have an impact on people’s minds and bodies. Our whole office staff is committed to offering empathy, patience and a wide spectrum of proficiency and expertise. Please contact us today to make an appointment. 

By Bellevue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

February 26, 2021