Facial Trauma Treatment in San Antonio

Expert Care for Facial Trauma

When it comes to treating facial injuries, few are as equipped as an oral and maxillofacial specialist. Dr. Steven C. Albright, DDS, is highly trained in the intricate art of repairing facial trauma, addressing both the immediate and long-term physical and emotional effects these injuries can cause. As an expert in emergency care, acute treatment, and comprehensive reconstruction, Dr. Albright understands how vital it is to restore both function and appearance after a traumatic event.

Facial injuries can cause significant emotional distress alongside physical pain. Whether the injury is a simple laceration or a severe fracture, the goal is always the same: to provide effective, compassionate care that not only heals the body but also helps the patient recover emotionally.

Dr. Albright’s Qualifications

Dr. Albright’s extensive experience includes working in local hospitals, where he provides emergency room coverage for facial trauma cases. He is well-versed in handling:

• Facial Lacerations
• Intraoral Lacerations
• Avulsed (Knocked-out) Teeth
• Fractured Facial Bones (cheekbones, nose, eye socket)
• Fractured Jaws (upper and lower jaw)

Dr. Albright combines cutting-edge techniques with a compassionate approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Understanding Facial Trauma

Facial trauma can arise from a variety of sources, including motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, accidental falls, work-related accidents, or interpersonal violence. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries involving broken bones or damaged nerves. Typically, facial trauma is classified into:

1. Soft Tissue Injuries – Injuries to the skin and gums, which may include cuts or abrasions.
2. Bone Injuries – Fractures of the facial bones, such as the jaw or cheekbones.
3. Specialized Injuries – Injuries to the eyes, facial nerves, or salivary glands.

Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, like lacerations, are repaired through suturing. Dr. Albright is skilled at not only addressing the cosmetic aspects but also assessing and treating any damage to underlying structures like nerves or salivary glands. These injuries, while often less severe in terms of long-term physical impact, can be just as traumatic emotionally, so careful attention is paid to cosmetic outcomes as well as functional recovery.

Bone Injuries
Fractures to the facial bones, such as the cheekbones, nose, or jaw, are treated using specialized techniques. Unlike fractures in other parts of the body, casts cannot be applied to the face, so Dr. Albright uses advanced methods like rigid fixation. This technique involves using small plates and screws to stabilize fractures, allowing for a faster and more comfortable recovery without the need for jaw wiring. Rigid fixation has revolutionized facial trauma recovery, offering patients a quicker return to normal function with minimal scarring.

Injuries to Teeth & Surrounding Structures
Injuries to teeth, including knocked-out or fractured teeth, are common in facial trauma cases. When a tooth is knocked out, prompt action is crucial. The tooth should be kept moist in a solution like milk or saline and reinserted into the socket as soon as possible. Dr. Albright often performs the replanting of teeth, splinting to stabilize them, and may call upon other dental specialists such as endodontists or restorative dentists for further treatment if needed. In cases where a tooth cannot be saved, dental implants offer an excellent solution for restoring the smile.

FAQs About Facial Trauma

1. What should I do if I suffer a facial injury? If you sustain a facial injury, especially if you have a knocked-out tooth or a severe laceration, seek medical attention immediately. For knocked-out teeth, place the tooth in milk or saline and visit a dentist or oral surgeon right away. Quick treatment can significantly improve the chances of saving your tooth.
2. What are the signs that I need treatment for facial trauma? Symptoms like significant swelling, bleeding, or difficulty breathing or chewing are clear indicators that you need professional treatment. If you experience any trauma to your face that causes pain, disfigurement, or impaired function, it’s important to consult a specialist right away.
3. How are fractured facial bones treated? Facial fractures are typically treated using either rigid fixation (plates and screws) or, in some cases, by wiring the jaws together. The method used will depend on the location and severity of the fracture. Dr. Albright will assess the injury and recommend the most effective approach for the best recovery.
4. How long does recovery from facial trauma take? Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment required. For minor lacerations, recovery may take only a few days to weeks, while fractures may require several weeks or even months to heal fully. Dr. Albright will provide a detailed recovery plan tailored to your specific injury.

Contact Dr. Steven C. Albright, DDS
If you or a loved one has suffered a facial injury, don’t hesitate to reach out for expert care. Dr. Albright is committed to providing the highest level of treatment, ensuring a smooth recovery process. Call his office at 210-490-4044 to schedule a consultation.