Facial injuries can be sneaky — sometimes the inside takes a bigger hit than what you see on the surface. Sure, you might notice pain, bleeding, or difficulty breathing, but internal damage often needs immediate attention from a specialist who knows the anatomy inside and out.
So how do you know it’s time to call an oral surgeon ASAP? Keep an eye on these warning signs.
1. A Tooth Is Injured or Out of Place
If a tooth looks “off,” assume there’s deeper structural damage. Trauma can affect not only the tooth itself but also the bone that supports it. An oral surgeon should evaluate injuries like:
- Cracked teeth
- Teeth that are loose, displaced, or completely knocked out
- Chipped or fractured enamel
This isn’t a “wait and see” moment — the sooner it’s assessed, the better the chance of saving the tooth and protecting surrounding structures.
2. Soft Tissue Damage
Your lips, gums, cheeks, and facial skin are incredibly delicate. A fall or impact can easily tear or crush these tissues. Look for:
- Deep cuts or lacerations
- Torn gums
- Significant cuts around the lips or inside the mouth
Oral surgeons are uniquely trained to repair these areas with precision while minimizing scarring and protecting vital nerves and vessels.
3. Severe or Worsening Swelling
Some swelling is normal after trauma — but swelling that rapidly increases or interferes with daily function is a red flag. You may notice trouble:
- Seeing
- Eating or chewing
- Breathing
- Speaking
Progressive swelling can indicate a fracture or internal bleeding, and it should be evaluated right away.
4. Intense Pain or Suspected Facial Fracture
Not every fracture is obvious, but if your face hurts even with the lightest touch, you may be dealing with
- A cheekbone (zygomatic) fracture
- An eye socket (orbital) fracture
- A jaw (mandibular) fracture
Signs can include visible asymmetry, changes in your bite, or difficulty moving the jaw. Delaying treatment can lead to long-term issues with appearance, function, or nerve sensitivity.
5. Bleeding Gums After Trauma
Gums shouldn’t bleed heavily after an impact. Persistent or significant bleeding may mean:
- Damage to periodontal tissues
- Injury to tooth roots
- Trauma to the supporting bone
An oral surgeon can determine the extent of the injury and prevent avoidable complications.
The Bottom Line
Facial trauma isn’t something to tough out or ignore. Prompt treatment from an oral surgeon protects your long-term function, comfort, and appearance. Whether you need tooth stabilization, fracture repair, or reconstructive care, CT Maxillofacial Surgeons has the expertise to get you back to normal safely and quickly.
If you’ve experienced facial trauma, don’t wait.
Call CT Maxillofacial Surgeons today to get the expert care you need