11 Jul 3 Tips for Getting Treatment After Facial Trauma
Facial trauma is a common result of car accidents, sports injuries, falls, and violence. It includes soft tissue, dental, and bone injuries. Damage can range from a split lip to a smashed jaw and missing teeth. There is also the danger of permanent nerve damage.
Since many injuries can cause disfigurement and impairment, immediate treatment is necessary. To alleviate suffering and speed healing, check out the 3 tips below for getting treatment after facial trauma.
1. Emergency Room
Depending on the severity of your injury, you may have to go to the emergency room. Deep cuts, broken bones, and teeth will need to be examined and stabilized.
Broken facial bones can lead to breathing, chewing, and swallowing problems. They can also damage the cranial nerves due to their proximity to the brain and central nervous system.
If you lose consciousness, you must get examined for head injuries. Severe lacerations will get stitches, and X-rays can confirm bone damage. In extreme cases, emergency surgery may be necessary.
2. At-Home Care
Once your injuries are stabilized, you can go home. Doctors at the emergency room will give you specific instructions on care and medication to combat pain and prevent infection.
Painkillers, oral steroids, and antibiotics are all common treatments. In addition, you may need extra rest and some ice packs to help your recovery.
In cases of minor facial trauma, you can skip the emergency room and take care of it at home with basic first aid.
3. Oral Surgeon
As soon as you are able, call your oral surgeon. Even if you already had surgery at the hospital, you may need more surgery to restore your face fully.
Oral surgeons can treat various facial trauma issues, including lacerations, broken jaws, loose teeth, and other injuries. Their expertise covers bone grafting, skin grafting, and more. During your consultation, your oral surgeon can assess the situation and develop a detailed treatment plan.
Additional surgeries and treatment can be crucial to recover your ability to chew, breathe correctly, and prevent permanent disfigurement.
Conclusion
Facial trauma can be devastating. Be sure to seek care immediately at an emergency room for any severe cuts or bone damage. You will receive the necessary treatment at the ER to stabilize your injuries.
Once your injuries have been stabilized, contact your oral surgeon as soon as possible to discuss additional treatment. In many cases, oral surgery can result in complete facial restoration.
If you or someone you love experiences facial trauma, Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates can help!