What Your Oral Surgeon Can Do for a Broken Jaw

Posted on 8/15/2024 by Beaverton Oral Surgeons

Woman holding jaw before making appointment at Beaverton Oral Surgeons in Hillsboro, OR

A broken jaw is a serious injury that requires immediate medical attention. If you have suffered a broken jaw, it is important to see an oral surgeon as soon as possible. Oral surgeons are dental specialists who have the training and experience to diagnose and treat broken jaws. In this guide, we will discuss what your oral surgeon can do for a broken jaw.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The first step in treating a broken jaw is to diagnose the injury. Your oral surgeon will perform a physical examination and take X-rays to determine the extent of the fracture. They will also ask about your medical history and any symptoms you are experiencing.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, your oral surgeon will develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. Some common treatments for broken jaws include:

•	Closed reduction: In this procedure, the oral surgeon will manually realign the broken bone fragments. They may use wires, elastics, or other devices to hold the bones in place.
•	Open reduction: In this procedure, the oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the broken bone fragments. They will then realign the bones and secure them with plates, screws, or wires.
•	Dental splints: Dental splints are devices that are used to stabilize the broken jaw. They are typically made of acrylic or metal and are worn for several weeks.
•	Jaw wiring: Jaw wiring is a procedure in which the upper and lower jaws are wired together. This helps to keep the broken jaw in place and allows the bones to heal properly.

Recovery and Oral Care

After your broken jaw is treated, it is important to follow your oral surgeon's instructions carefully. This will help to ensure that your jaw heals properly and that you do not develop any complications. Some common instructions include:

•	Eating a soft diet: You will need to eat a soft diet for several weeks after your surgery. This will help to prevent you from putting too much stress on your jaw.
•	Keeping your mouth clean: It is important to keep your mouth clean to prevent infection. Your oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to clean your mouth.
•	Avoiding strenuous activity: You should avoid strenuous activity for several weeks after your surgery. This will help to prevent you from re-injuring your jaw.

Restoration Dentistry

In some cases, a broken jaw can lead to damage to your teeth. If this is the case, your oral surgeon will work with a restorative dentist to repair or replace your damaged teeth. Restorative dentistry can help to restore the function and appearance of your smile.

Conclusion

A broken jaw is a serious injury, but with proper treatment, most people make a full recovery. If you have suffered a broken jaw, it is important to see an oral surgeon as soon as possible. Your oral surgeon will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and will help you to heal properly.

Hillsboro

400 E Main St Ste 120, Hillsboro, OR 97123
Hillsboro, OR 97123-4163
(503) 646-7101

Beaverton

3925 SW 153rd Drive #100
Beaverton, OR 97003
(503) 646-7101

Hours

Mon - Thu: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 2:00pm

New Patient Forms

Request Appointment

Study Club

About Us | Beaverton Oral Surgeons | Hillsboro, OR
If you have recently been told you need oral surgery, you have come to the right place. Call Oralis Oral Surgery to schedule your initial consultation today!
Beaverton Oral Surgeons, 3925 SW 153rd Dr. Suite # 100, Beaverton, OR 97006 | (503) 646-7101 | beavertonoralsurgeons.com | 9/13/2024 | Key Phrases: Oral Surgery Beaverton |