Facial trauma is a serious issue. If you do not receive proper treatment, you could end up with painful and long-lasting problems. But whom should you trust to care for you? While numerous types of doctors may contribute to helping you feel better, an oral surgeon may play a pivotal role in your recovery. What are some signs that you should see an oral surgeon for facial trauma? This blog post points out a few.
You Have a Soft Tissue Injury
If you have a severe cut to any of the soft tissues on your face, such as your cheeks or tongue, an oral surgeon can stop the bleeding and promote healing by placing some sutures. However, they can do even more. Because they are experts in facial anatomy, they can also provide care for your nerves, salivary glands, and salivary ducts with the goal of preserving your oral functions and preventing future complications.
You Have Bone Damage
Fractured facial bones can be complex to treat. Unlike a broken arm or leg, they cannot simply be placed in a cast and left to heal on their own. They may need metal plates and screws, along with possible wiring, to stabilize them while they heal. Oral surgeons are well-qualified to perform such procedures.
Your Teeth Are Injured
If a person suffers a hard blow to their face, there is a good chance that it will affect their teeth. For example, a tooth might get broken or knocked out of the mouth altogether. Such situations are urgent and call for immediate care from a dental professional. An oral surgeon can assess the damage and provide treatment that will minimize the consequences of your dental injury.
You Are Experiencing Problematic Symptoms
Even if it has been some time since your accident, you might still benefit from the care of an oral surgeon. For example, significant swelling in or around your oral tissues could indicate an infection. Pain in your jaw may mean that it never healed properly after a hard blow. Intense pain, whether it is in a tooth or anywhere on your face, likewise calls for professional attention.
What to Expect with Treatment
Your oral surgeon will carefully assess your situation before designing a treatment plan. The goal will be to restore or preserve your facial functions and optimize your appearance. Depending on the seriousness of your injuries, several doctors of different specialties may need to coordinate. Hopefully, you will soon be on your way to once again enjoying a healthy and pain-free smile!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Steve Koo and William Shepard are proud to provide a broad range of oral and maxillofacial surgery services for the Katy community. They treat each case with compassion and great attention to detail. If you have suffered facial trauma, we will book you for an appointment as soon as possible and help you determine your next steps on the road to recovery. Contact our friendly team at 832-353-1100.