Many people think a jaw injury is only serious if it causes obvious disfigurement or intense pain. In reality, some jaw fractures can be subtle – so subtle that the patient delays care and experiences complications.

This blog clears up confusion by breaking down the types of jaw fractures and how they’re treated. You’ll learn what symptoms to watch for and when to see a specialist.

At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH), Dr. L.T. Johnson and his expert team address jaw fractures with careful diagnosis and advanced techniques. Their reputation is based on precision, safety, and personalized facial trauma treatment.

Types of Jaw Fractures

There are several ways the jaw can break, and the location of the fracture usually determines how it’s managed.

Mandibular Fracture (Lower Jaw)

This is the most common jaw fracture. It can occur in one or multiple parts of the lower jaw and often results from direct trauma to the face.

Symptoms include swelling, bruising under the tongue, pain when chewing, or a misaligned bite. Treatment generally involves stabilizing the fracture with plates and screws, and in some cases, wiring the jaw.

Maxillary Fracture (Upper Jaw)

These fractures are less common but more complex. This is due to the upper jaw’s proximity to the eye sockets and nasal bones. Maxillary fractures are frequently caused by high-impact accidents.

Patients may experience facial swelling, nosebleeds, vision problems, and difficulty breathing through the nose. They typically require surgical intervention to realign the bones.

Condylar Fracture

A condylar fracture affects the rounded end of the jawbone near the ear. It may result in trouble opening the mouth, jaw misalignment, or clicking sounds.

Treatments range from conservative methods like rest and a soft diet to surgical repair.

Alveolar Fracture

This fracture damages the part of the jawbone that holds the teeth. It’s often linked to dental trauma and may lead to loose or missing teeth.

Correcting an alveolar fracture typically involves repositioning the teeth and bone. This is followed by splinting or surgical stabilization to promote proper healing.

Trust OFSIH with Your Care

If you suspect any of the jaw fractures mentioned above, don’t wait. Early diagnosis helps to prevent long-term complications and increases overall well-being.

The Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston proudly serves patients with compassionate, expert care. Call 281-491-4545 to schedule an appointment today.

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Facial trauma 

At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH), Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, leads a dedicated team providing expert care. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to restore facial functionality and appearance, ensuring comprehensive patient care.

Assess the Severity of the Injury

The first step is to evaluate the extent of the injury. Look for visible signs such as bleeding, swelling, bruising, or deformity. If there is severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, or signs of a fracture (such as a misshapen jaw or nose), seek medical attention immediately. Serious injuries like fractures or deep cuts may require emergency care.

Stop Any Bleeding

If bleeding occurs, apply light pressure with a clean cloth or gauze. Keeping the injured area elevated can reduce any swelling and bleeding. Tilt your head slightly forward for nosebleeds and pinch the nostrils to control bleeding. Avoid tilting your head backward, which can cause blood to flow into the throat.

Apply Ice to Reduce Swelling

Use an ice pack or cold compress on the injured area for 15-20 minutes to help minimize swelling and pain. Be sure to wrap the ice in a cloth first to avoid direct contact with the skin, which could cause frostbite.

Seek Medical Attention

For minor injuries, over-the-counter pain relievers and rest may be sufficient. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional or visit an emergency room for more severe injuries. Injuries involving broken bones, deep cuts, or damage to the teeth or eyes will require medical intervention.

Follow Up with a Specialist

Depending on the severity of your injury, follow-up care with a specialist, such as a plastic surgeon, oral surgeon, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor), may be necessary. Specialists can evaluate the need for reconstructive surgery, manage scarring, or address functional issues like breathing or jaw movement.

Take Care of Yourself During Recovery

Rest, proper nutrition, and following your doctor’s instructions are key to a smooth recovery. Avoid strenuous activities and protect the injured area from further harm while healing.

Seek Professional Guidance for Facial Trauma in Houston, TX

Following these steps can ensure a better outcome after experiencing a facial injury and minimize long-term complications. Call us today at 281-491-4545 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Johnson.

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Facial trauma

Permanent Loss of Function and Disfigurement

The human face is complex, with many bones, blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and sensory organs.

If facial trauma isn’t treated, it can cause permanent loss of function, like problems with vision, chewing, speaking, or swallowing. It can also lead to disfigurement, changing the appearance of the face for good.

Facial Fractures

Depending on the type and severity of the injury, facial fractures can cause severe bleeding, swelling, bruising, and a distorted appearance. Some specific fractures include:

• LeFort I: A horizontal fracture above the teeth and beneath the nose.
• LeFort II: A crack extending from the eye socket across the bridge of the nose and downward through the cheekbone.
• LeFort III: A horizontal line across the back of the eye sockets.
• Orbital Bone Fractures: These can lead to double vision, missing teeth, and difficulty breathing through the nose.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

Untreated trauma can cause unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, and strained relationships. Also, physical symptoms like headaches or nausea can occur. Some people find it hard to move forward with their lives.

Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms

These symptoms may occur because of the injury itself or trigger other conditions. They can include trouble sleeping, dizziness, stress, and mental health issues.

Other Signs of Untreated Facial Trauma

Here are some additional effects of untreated facial trauma:

• Changes in feeling throughout the face
• Deformed face or uneven facial bones
• Vision affected by bruising and/or swelling around the eyes
• Nose breathing becomes difficult

Schedule a Facial Trauma Consultation in Houston, TX

If you’ve experienced facial trauma, don’t wait to seek treatment. At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, we specialize in providing comprehensive care for facial injuries.

Our team of experts is here to help you regain your ability to do things, ease any pain you’re feeling, and make you feel good about how you look again.

Contact us today at 281-491-4545 to schedule a consultation. Don’t let untreated facial trauma impact your life any longer.

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In sports, facial injuries can vary from minor scrapes and bruises to serious fractures and dislocations. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, sports-related injuries account for a significant number of facial traumas treated in emergency rooms each year. These injuries can affect the bones, soft tissues, and even the teeth, causing both short-term and long-term consequences.

Consequences of Facial Trauma

Physical effects include fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries that can cause pain and swelling and make it hard to breathe or eat. Dental traumas (knocked out or shattered teeth) can have long-term functional and cosmetic effects.

Facial injuries can have a profound psychological impact on athletes, affecting their confidence, self-esteem, and overall mental well–being.

Prevention and Protective Measures

Athletes should use appropriate protective gear designed for their specific sport. This includes helmets, face shields, and mouth guards. If you’re an athlete, you should also undergo regular dental check-ups to address any pre-existing dental issues and ensure that your teeth are adequately protected. Immediate medical attention is crucial in case of facial trauma. Quick diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent further complications.

The Role of Oral and Facial Surgeons

Oral and facial surgeons have emerged as unsung heroes in the realm of sports medicine, playing a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of facial injuries that athletes may encounter.

Oral and facial surgeons specialize in the treatment of injuries to the face, jaw, and mouth. This expertise uniquely positions them to address sports-related facial trauma with a deep understanding of the intricacies of the facial structure.

Athletes involved in contact sports are susceptible to dental injuries. Oral and facial surgeons can address issues like fractured teeth, dislodged teeth, or other dental trauma. Additionally, they collaborate with other healthcare professionals in managing oral and facial trauma.

Seek an Oral and Facial Surgeon in Texas

If you’re an athlete in contact sports and need a consultation from a trauma surgeon from an injury, contact the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston by calling 281-491-4545 or filling out our online form here.

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