Accidents can happen at any time, and when they do, facial injuries, including those affecting the jaw, are some of the most serious and painful types of trauma. Whether caused by a car accident, sports injury, or a fall, these injuries often require immediate attention from an experienced oral surgeon. At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery in El Paso, Dr. Mark DuVernois and Dr. Scott Marshall are highly skilled in treating jaw injuries and facial trauma, offering advanced surgical care to restore function and appearance.
In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of oral surgery in treating jaw injuries, the types of trauma we handle, and how our experienced team can help you recover fully.
Facial trauma can vary in severity, and the type of treatment needed depends on the nature of the injury. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons like Dr. DuVernois and Dr. Marshall are specially trained to handle a wide range of trauma involving the teeth, jaws, and face. Some common types of injuries include:
A broken or fractured jaw is a common result of blunt trauma to the face. The mandible (lower jaw) or maxilla (upper jaw) may be fractured in one or multiple places, leading to misalignment, difficulty eating, and severe pain. Oral surgery is often required to stabilize the broken bones and restore proper function.
Lacerations or deep cuts to the face may involve damage to soft tissues, nerves, or even the salivary glands. These injuries need careful repair to minimize scarring and prevent further complications. Oral surgeons are trained in suturing techniques that promote healing while maintaining the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Trauma to the teeth, such as knocked-out (avulsed) or fractured teeth, requires urgent attention. A knocked-out tooth may be saved if treated quickly, while fractured teeth may need to be extracted or repaired with dental implants. Oral surgeons can address both the immediate repair and long-term restoration of damaged teeth.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. Trauma to this joint can lead to dislocation, pain, and limited jaw movement. In severe cases, oral surgery may be required to repair the joint and restore proper function.
Jaw and facial trauma requires specialized care from an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. These professionals are trained not only in treating the injuries themselves but also in managing the functional and aesthetic aspects of the face and jaw. Here are a few reasons why oral surgery is crucial for treating these types of injuries:
Jaw injuries can severely impact your ability to speak, chew, and move your jaw. If fractures are not properly aligned or stabilized, it can lead to long-term problems such as bite misalignment, chronic pain, or even the inability to open or close your mouth properly. Oral surgery ensures that the bones are positioned correctly and the jaw functions as it should.
Untreated jaw injuries can result in complications such as infection, improper healing, and permanent damage to the teeth or facial structure. Oral surgeons use advanced imaging technology, such as 3D cone beam CT scans, to accurately assess the extent of the damage and develop a treatment plan that addresses both the immediate injury and potential future issues.
Injuries to the face can leave visible scars or cause disfigurement if not treated carefully. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are skilled in reconstructive techniques that not only repair the underlying injury but also ensure the best possible cosmetic outcome. By working to minimize scarring and restore facial symmetry, surgeons help patients regain confidence and self-esteem after trauma.
Jaw injuries often involve more than just bone fractures. They can include damage to teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as the jaw’s alignment with the skull. Oral surgeons offer comprehensive treatment to address all aspects of trauma, from repairing fractures to replacing damaged teeth with dental implants or other restorations.
At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, our goal is to provide expert care in a comfortable, supportive environment. Here’s what you can expect during the treatment process:
After an injury, it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. During your initial evaluation, Dr. DuVernois or Dr. Marshall will assess the extent of the injury through physical examination and advanced imaging. This allows us to understand the severity of the damage and create a tailored treatment plan.
Depending on the type of injury, surgery may involve repositioning and stabilizing fractures with plates or screws, repairing soft tissue damage, or replacing lost teeth. The procedure will be performed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient’s comfort level.
After surgery, we’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include pain management strategies, dietary recommendations, and instructions on how to care for the surgical site. Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort for the first few days, but with proper care, healing progresses quickly.
Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your healing and ensure the surgery was successful. Dr. DuVernois and Dr. Marshall will continue to assess your progress, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, and ensure that any dental restorations (such as implants or crowns) are completed effectively.
At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, we have extensive experience treating jaw injuries and facial trauma. Dr. Mark DuVernois and Dr. Scott Marshall are both board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons with advanced training in reconstructive surgery and trauma care. We use the latest surgical techniques and technologies to provide precise, effective treatment that minimizes pain, reduces complications, and promotes faster healing.
Whether you’ve experienced a recent injury or need reconstructive surgery after a past trauma, our team is here to help you regain function and restore your appearance.
