Sometimes, an accidental injury to the head, face, or mouth can be absolutely devastating. In other instances, it can be as simple as a cut that bleeds uncontrollably. When such an injury involves the teeth, it is natural to seek the help of an oral surgeon. What you may not realize is that an oral surgeon is also the correct choice when the injury involves the soft tissues of the face, mouth, lips, or tongue.
Due to an oral surgeon’s in-depth education and experience, you can expect to receive an exceptional level of combined medical and dental care. When it comes to a region as delicate and highly visible as the face and mouth, these skills become more valuable than ever.
In addition to a wealth of knowledge about the teeth, gums, and bone, an oral surgeon’s education includes extensive hands-on experience in several related fields of study. Pain management, cosmetic surgery, emergency medicine, reconstructive surgery, and pharmacology are all covered in detail during both graduate and post-graduate education.
Similar to the education that a medical doctor must obtain, the degree of oral and maxillofacial surgery is awarded only after an intensive residency in an approved hospital or medical facility. In that setting, dentists are involved in virtually every aspect of patient management and healthcare.
This level of training proves to be extremely valuable when you are faced with an emergency. For example, the trauma from a motor vehicle accident may involve a split lip, fractured teeth, and a bruised jaw. In this instance, the need for oral surgery may extend to include the soft tissues of the face. For the very best outcome, your surgeon will rely on an extensive knowledge of nerve pathways and anatomy, while still able to take precautions that will ensure the most ideal esthetic result.
If you have been affected by a traumatic injury to the face or mouth, contact our dedicated team of Oral Surgeons, serving the Dallas Metroplex, today to schedule a consultation.
