Traumatic facial injuries in Northern Virginia

Traumatic injuries run the gamut from minor lacerations and injuries to the teeth to complex fractures of the jaw and facial bones. The most serious injuries are usually seen in emergency rooms and treated in local hospitals. However, simple jaw fractures and injuries involving damage to the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth and adjacent lip structures may be treated in our oral surgery offices in Annandale, Manassas, and Woodbridge. Prompt suturing of lip lacerations will help ensure a more “cosmetic” result.

In injuries in which teeth have been displaced or knocked out, prompt treatment is of the essence. If possible, rinse the tooth and replace it in the socket. Alternatively, place the tooth or teeth in salt water or milk. The tooth or teeth will need to be repositioned and splinted in place as soon as possible. Contact us or your personal dentist immediately for prompt treatment of these injuries.

What types of injuries are there?

Maxillofacial trauma spans a wide range of injuries, from soft tissue injuries which affect the gums and skin, to bone injuries and injuries to special regions such as the eyes, nerves, or salivary glands.

What should I do if I lose a tooth?

If your tooth is knocked out, you should not wipe it off. This may remove remnants of the ligament that is necessary for the success of replanting the tooth. Instead, place the tooth in milk or salt water and see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible.