expert Facial Trauma correction in Kahului

An oral and maxillofacial specialist is thoroughly qualified to repair facial injuries. These professionals are well versed in emergency care, acute treatment, and long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation – not just for physical reasons, but for emotional ones as well. Injuries to the face, by their very nature, impart a high degree of emotional as well as physical trauma to patients. The science and art of treating these injuries requires special training involving a “hands-on” experience and an understanding of how the treatment provided will influence the patient’s long-term function and appearance.

Dr. Strawn meets and exceeds these modern standards. She is trained, skilled, and uniquely qualified to manage and treat facial trauma. They are on staff at local hospitals and deliver emergency room coverage for facial injuries, which include the following conditions:

• Facial lacerations
• Intraoral lacerations
• Avulsed (knocked out) teeth
• Fractured facial bones (cheek, nose, or eye socket)
• Fractured jaws (upper and lower jaw)

Understanding Maxillofacial Trauma: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery

Maxillofacial trauma refers to injuries to the face, including the skin, bones, teeth, and soft tissues. These injuries can result from a variety of incidents, such as motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, falls, work-related accidents, and interpersonal violence. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, facial trauma can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious damage to facial bones, nerves, and tissues.

Maxillofacial injuries are generally categorized into three main types:

1. Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., skin, gums, and muscles)
2. Bone Injuries (fractures)
3. Injuries to Specialized Regions (such as the eyes, salivary glands, or facial nerves)

Soft Tissue Injuries of the Maxillofacial Region

Soft tissue injuries, like cuts or lacerations, are a common occurrence in facial trauma. These injuries are typically treated through suturing, with the primary goal being both functional repair and achieving the best cosmetic result. In addition to the obvious cosmetic concerns, careful attention is given to any damage to important structures such as the facial nerves, salivary glands, or ducts. Dr. Strawn, a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon, has extensive training in diagnosing and treating all types of facial lacerations to ensure optimal outcomes.

Bone Injuries of the Maxillofacial Region

Facial fractures are treated similarly to fractures in other parts of the body, but they require specialized techniques. The treatment plan depends on factors such as the location and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. Unlike fractures in limbs that are often treated with casts, facial fractures require different methods of stabilization.

For certain jaw fractures, a common approach is wiring the jaws together, but newer techniques allow for more precise treatment. Rigid fixation, involving the placement of small plates and screws, is often the best method for stabilizing facial fractures. This technique has revolutionized recovery, enabling patients to heal more quickly and with fewer complications. It eliminates the need for wiring the jaws together, allowing for faster restoration of normal function.

Maxillofacial surgeons strive to minimize the impact of facial trauma on appearance. Wherever possible, incisions are kept small and strategically placed in less visible areas to minimize scarring.

Injuries to the Teeth & Surrounding Structures

Dental injuries are common in facial trauma and often require specialized care. If teeth are fractured or displaced, or if they have been knocked out, prompt intervention is crucial. Oral surgeons frequently treat the bones supporting the teeth or replant displaced teeth.

If a tooth is knocked out, it should be kept in milk or saline and reinserted as soon as possible, ideally within 30 minutes, to maximize the chances of saving it. It is important not to touch the root of the tooth, as doing so may damage the cells necessary for reattachment. Other dental specialists, such as endodontists or restorative dentists, may be called upon for further treatment, such as root canal therapy or rebuilding fractured teeth. When teeth cannot be saved, dental implants are a common and effective solution for replacing missing teeth.

FAQs About Maxillofacial Trauma

Q: What should I do if I sustain a facial injury?
A: Seek medical attention immediately, especially if the injury involves heavy bleeding, fractures, or damage to your teeth or eyes. Prompt care can help prevent complications and promote faster recovery.

Q: How long does it take to recover from a facial fracture?
A: Recovery times vary depending on the severity and location of the fracture. With modern treatment methods, including rigid fixation, many patients recover faster, often within 6-8 weeks, though more complex cases may take longer.

Q: Can facial injuries affect my appearance permanently?
A: With proper treatment and expert care, most patients experience minimal long-term cosmetic issues. Surgeons make every effort to minimize scarring, and reconstructive procedures can restore facial appearance and function.

Q: What is rigid fixation, and why is it used for facial fractures?
A: Rigid fixation involves the surgical placement of plates and screws to stabilize facial fractures. Unlike older methods, which required wiring the jaws together, rigid fixation provides a more stable and effective healing environment and allows for quicker recovery.

Q: How can I protect my teeth during physical activities to prevent injuries?
A: Wearing a mouthguard during sports or high-risk activities can significantly reduce the risk of tooth injuries. Mouthguards provide a protective barrier for both the teeth and jaw.

Ready to Restore Your Confidence?

If you’ve experienced facial trauma or injury, it’s crucial to seek the care of specialists who are experienced in emergency treatment, reconstruction, and rehabilitation. Dr. Strawn and our team are here to help you navigate your recovery with expertise and compassion.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get on the path to recovery.