When you are suffering from a dental injury, who do you call? Where do you go? Because you have likely never imagined yourself in this situation, you may not know the right answers.
There are some instances in which a call to your dentist for an emergency appointment is the best choice. Then, there are other more serious dental injuries that require the attention of a skilled oral surgeon in a hospital setting.
Emergency Dental Visits
Dental emergencies happen all the time due to sports injuries, falls, infections, or the buildup of decay. This can lead many people to reach out to their dentist right away for a visit. A few of the most common reasons for emergency dental visits include:
- A tooth that has been completely knocked out
- A broken tooth
- A severe toothache
- An abscess
- Bad bites of the lip, tongue, or cheek
While each of these things can feel like an absolute emergency while they are happening, there is not much a visit to the hospital can do for you, aside from potential pain relief. Most ERs and hospitals do not have dentists on staff at all times nor do they have the necessary equipment to treat such emergencies.
These are dental issues that require an immediate response from a dentist. To meet the need, many general dentists, endodontists, and the like offer emergency and after-hours appointments. Or, they have a plan in place should their patients need them.
Dental Injuries Requiring Hospital Visits
Dental injuries and facial trauma, on the other hand, will very likely require a hospital visit. In these instances, the help of an experienced oral surgeon is crucial for successful recovery. This is especially true when it comes to treating complex facial injuries.
A few common facial traumas that oral surgeons see regularly include:
- Bone fractures of the face and jaw
- Dental injuries
- Lacerations of the face or mouth
Keep in mind that each of these types of injuries can vary greatly from patient to patient. One’s age, current medical conditions, level of oral health, and the details of the injury all play a role in the extent of the damage and the complexity of the treatment.
Facial Trauma Treatment in Albuquerque
Facial trauma can happen when you least expect it, often the result of auto accidents, falls, or sports injuries. The specialists at Rio Grande Oral Surgery are on staff at the leading hospitals in Albuquerque to diagnose and treat complex facial injuries.
If you are in need of an oral surgeon to address your facial trauma, contact us today at 505-821-2111. Or, request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most serious complication of facial trauma?
Airway obstruction is the most serious complication after maxillofacial trauma as it can be life-threatening. This will require immediate medical attention.
How long does it take to heal from facial trauma?
The time it takes to heal from facial trauma will vary. For some, healing can take days or weeks. For others several months. It all depends on the details of the trauma. Your oral surgeon will be able to give you a better idea of your healing timeline as it pertains to your specific injuries.