Facial Trauma: Hard Tissue Injuries

Facial Trauma: Hard Tissue Injuries

jaw surgery StillwaterFacial trauma can happen to anyone. Many times, an accidental fall or a car wreck can affect the oral and maxillofacial region of the body. Since the face and mouth are made up of hard tissue, bones and teeth can become broken and injured. When hard tissues are damaged by trauma, patients will suffer with reduced oral function, significant discomfort, and even disfigurement.

Our oral surgeons treat facial trauma compassionately and carefully so that members of our community can enjoy a higher quality of life. Facial trauma may require corrective procedures such as jaw surgery and bone grafts along with the replacement of damaged teeth with dental implants.

Jaw Surgery and Bone Grafts

Blunt force trauma to the face can easily damage the upper and lower mandibles (jawbones). Like any other bone in the body, the mandible can fracture. The jaws are essential to comfortable oral function and the support of teeth. Broken and damaged jaws must be repaired so that patients can speak and eat without difficulty or pain.

Orthognathic (jaw) surgery involves repositioning and repairing damaged jawbones. Sometimes, facial trauma can affect the placement of the jaw and the temporomandibular joints (the joints that connect the skull and lower mandible). If the socket of the temporomandibular joint is damaged along with the mandible, jaw surgery will reposition the bone to the joint. This process will improve mouth movement and discomfort.

Another procedure used to address facial trauma is the grafting of bone. Sometimes extensive injuries to the face can chip away pieces of the jaw. These pieces may require reattachment or bone mass from another part of the body such as the hip or knee may be needed to reconstruct the damaged bone.

When treating facial trauma, our surgeons strive to improve oral function and appearance as well as comfort. Our team assesses each patient’s unique situation so that we can provide customized, high-quality treatment.

We utilize the latest technology and surgical techniques to promote comfortable and effective treatment. Call Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates at 405-624-1300 today to reserve an appointment with one of our doctors.