Trauma
Maxillofacial trauma, which includes injuries to the face and jaws, can result from various causes, such as accidents, sports injuries, penetrating wounds, and violence. These injuries can manifest with symptoms like pain, swelling, bleeding, bruising, and numbness. More severe cases may lead to airway obstruction, excessive bleeding, shock, or even brain injury.
The treatment for maxillofacial trauma depends on the type and severity of the injury. It typically involves a systematic evaluation, including a comprehensive physical examination and imaging (such as X-rays). In some situations, treatment may need to be delayed until swelling subsides or until more severe injuries are addressed.
Facios clinic provides round-the-clock access to oral and maxillofacial surgeons who collaborate with emergency personnel to evaluate and treat patients with maxillofacial trauma. These specialists are uniquely trained to manage complex facial trauma cases, addressing concerns like airway control, bleeding control, swelling reduction, infection prevention, bone fracture repair, laceration and soft tissue injury repair, and facial reconstruction. Their expertise extends to restoring both the aesthetics and functionality of the face, jaw joints, and teeth, making them a crucial part of the emergency response team for facial trauma cases.
Pathology
Jaw cysts, which are sacs or pouches containing fluid, can develop in various areas around the face and mouth. The types of jaw cysts can include periapical cysts, which typically form around the roots of teeth due to chronic infection, as well as dentigerous cysts that may develop around impacted teeth like wisdom teeth. Some cysts originate from the cells responsible for tooth formation and are termed odontogenic cysts.
The diagnosis of jaw cysts often occurs incidentally during dental x-rays, as they typically grow slowly and are asymptomatic. If a cyst becomes infected, it can lead to pain.
In the case of treatment, the standard approach is to remove the cyst surgically. Depending on the size and location of the cyst, the surgeon may make an incision inside the mouth or, in some cases, outside the mouth. After removal, the cyst is sent for microscopic examination to confirm the diagnosis.
The type of anesthesia used during the procedure depends on various factors, including the cyst’s size and location and the patient’s general health and prior dental experiences. Local or general anesthesia may be required.
Recovery after the procedure may involve some initial discomfort, swelling, bruising, pain, or jaw stiffness, which gradually improves over time. Instructions for post-operative care and any necessary pain medication or antibiotics will be provided.
While jaw cyst removal is commonly performed and generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and risks. These can include bleeding, infection, accidental damage to nearby teeth or the jaw, numbness in the lower lip or tongue, taste changes, and jaw stiffness. The specific risks vary among individuals, and your oral surgeon will assess your case and provide guidance accordingly.
