Facial Trauma

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained, skilled and uniquely qualified to manage and treat facial trauma. The doctors at AOMS have undergone extensive training during their surgical residencies and have had years of experience in treating facial trauma. The doctors are on staff at Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey. Overlook has proven to be an excellent facility for trauma care when required. It has a very capable emergency department, well equipped operating rooms and a good nursing staff.

Among the types of injuries treated by this office are:

• Lacerations (cuts) both on the face and in the mouth
• Avulsed (knocked out) teeth
• Fractured jaws (upper and lower jaw)
  

By its nature, trauma is the result of acciddental injury. When the injury is limited to a specific oral or facial region, such as the loss of a tooth or a laceration of the lip, treatment can be rendered in the office. When more significant trauma is involved, such as an auto acccident or severe blow to the head and face, it is wise to be evaluated in an emergency room setting. Should this be the case, patients and family may request our services by speaking to the emergency doctor in charge.

What to do if a tooth is knocked out

Injuries to the face and jaws may involve displacement of one or more teeth. Should this occur, every effort should be made to obtain the services of an oral surgeon as soon as possible. This may be done by either calling our office at 973-376-1144 or going to your nearest emergency room if the nature of the injury warrants further evaluation.

When a tooth or teeth are completely knocked out (avulsed) every effort should be made to first locate the tooth or teeth and if possible, replace it in the socket. In handling the tooth it should be held by the portion that you normally see in the mouth, not by the root. It is important to avoid handling the root so that fibers attached to it may remain healthy for the purpose of reattachment. If immediate reimplanting by patient or others is not feasible, then the tooth should be placed in a jar or small container with milk and brought to a treatment facility as soon as possible.

Once seen by an oral surgeon, the proper treatment may be rendered and any further follow up with other dental specialties may be recommended if necessary.