Common Causes of Facial Trauma (And How They're Treated)

Facial injuries can happen in an instant, whether from a sports collision, a fall, or a car accident. Unfortunately, the damage can include a chipped tooth, knocked-out tooth, or a soft tissue injury that requires immediate attention. We cover common causes of this damage below. 

 At Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals, serving Sheffield and Florence, AL, our team provides comprehensive maxillofacial surgery and trauma care to help restore the function and appearance of your smile. If you've experienced a facial or oral injury, call right away to schedule a consultation. 

Broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth 

A broken or knocked-out tooth can result from a facial injury or biting down on a hard object. A chipped tooth may seem minor, but leaving it untreated can lead to sensitivity or further damage. More severe breaks can expose the inner pulp, which requires prompt treatment to prevent complications. 

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency. If handled correctly, the tooth may be able to be reinserted. Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk, and seek care right away. Treatment options for this kind of facial trauma range from bonding and crowns for chips and fractures to replantation or implants for knocked-out teeth. 

Sports-related facial and oral injuries 

Contact sports and high-impact activities are a leading cause of facial trauma. Impacts to the face can result in broken teeth, lacerations, and fractures. Athletes who don't wear proper protective equipment are especially vulnerable. 

Our team in Sheffield and Florence, AL, uses advanced digital imaging to assess the full extent of the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Minor issues may be treated in-office with little or no anesthesia, while more complex cases require surgical intervention. 

Falls causing oral or facial injury 

Falls are a common cause of facial trauma, particularly in young children and older adults. They can result in a chipped tooth or lacerations to the lips and gums. Even a seemingly minor fall can cause damage that isn't immediately visible. 

It's important to seek evaluation after any fall that involves impact to the face or mouth. Our team will assess the injury and determine whether treatment is needed to prevent complications. 

Trauma to the jaw 

Trauma to the jaw can be painful and cause issues, such as swelling, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, and changes in your bite. If you suspect a jaw fracture, seek care immediately. 

Minor trauma may heal with rest and a soft food diet, while significant fractures can require maxillofacial surgery. We can review your condition using digital imaging and explain the possible options for your recovery. 

Soft tissue injury 

Injuries to the lips, gums, and tongue are also common with facial trauma. These injuries may involve minor cuts or deep lacerations that require stitches. A soft tissue injury to the mouth requires careful treatment to restore normal function. 

Our staff provides gentle, thorough care for these injuries. After assessing the damage, we'll clean the wound and determine the approach. 

Seek care for facial trauma 

If you've experienced a knocked-out tooth, trauma to the jaw, or a soft tissue injury, Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals in Sheffield and Florence, AL is here to help. Our team specializes in maxillofacial surgery and comprehensive trauma care to restore your smile and get you on the path to recovery. Call today to schedule your consultation and get the care you need.