It is rare that dental trauma only involves fractured or missing teeth. In most cases, dental trauma also involves treating damages or fractures to the jaw, cheekbones, eye orbits, and facial lacerations. These injuries are far beyond the scope of a regular dentist. An oral maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) is needed for this type of surgery and aftercare services. However, depending on the circumstances behind the injury, you’d see an OMS for a consultation at the very least.
The OMS Specialty
These surgeons are highly trained professionals in the delicate and intricate techniques and procedures required to properly repair the mouth. Oral maxillofacial surgeons also come highly recommended for restoring facial structure after a severe injury or accident. Many techniques are the result of dental trauma surgery completed during times of war and conflict. Major sports injuries have also contributed to the development of specialized procedures. Advancing technology is also constantly applied to this specialized field of medicine and dentistry.
The most common components of dental trauma services are dental implants, utilized for replacing missing teeth. At the same time, these services often include a multitude of other components. Fractures of the upper or lower jaw are also common. Cheekbone fractures and trauma to the nose and eyes are more common in trauma caused by an impact that is delivered head-on. This is often the case in sports and vehicle accidents, depending on the circumstances.
Reconstruction
Reconstructive surgery can be extensive in extreme cases. The knowledge and experience of the surgeon will make a significant difference in the results. Appearance, function, and level of recovery are all based on how well the OMS surgeon aligns connections and stitches lacerations. Poor reconstruction is apparent via excessive scarring, problems speaking or chewing, or residual pain. However, experience matters, so you should seek a successful team of surgeons like those at OMSH. The OMSH team has provided dental trauma surgeries for over fifteen years in the Greater Houston area.
Protection
Wearing facial protection, mouth guards, and safety equipment for sports and occupations are simple ways to stay protected and safe. Using protection during activities that have the potential for direct impact is crucial to reducing the extent of the injury sustained. A motorcycle helmet, for example, won’t allow the wind to blow through your hair, but it will protect your face in an accident.
You never know when or if a facial injury will occur, but it does help to know who to go to in such a crisis. The oral surgeons and medical specialists of OMSH are available to serve Houstonians during dental trauma. If you or someone you know needs reconstructive surgery, and you live in the Houston area, contact OMSH online for a consult, or call us at 832-509-4505.
