Maxillofacial surgery is sometimes used to repair broken bones in the face. Fractured jaws are a popular candidate for maxillofacial surgery. In most cases, surgery to repair a fractured jaw may require the use of metal plates, wires and rubber bands to fixate the jaw and assist in its healing. In some cases, dentures and splints may also be used.
Here’s a look at some common injuries involving the facial structures:
- Soft tissue injuries—These kinds of injuries are usually simple lacerations of the facial area and can normally be repaired with sutures. Nonetheless, soft tissue injuries are serious because if deep enough, can also affect nerves and salivary glands.
- Bone injuries—After the surgeon is able to fixate a bone fracture, wires and small plates and screws may be needed to keep the bone stable while it heals.
- Tooth and general dental injuries—Trauma to the teeth and gums sometimes leads to a complicated treatment regimen because so many structures are involved. If root canal therapy is needed, an endodontist may be involved, while fractured teeth may need to be treated by a restorative dentist. A maxillofacial surgeon may be called in to replant displaced teeth or repair bone fractures.
