It takes a lot of skills to be a maxillofacial surgeon. Candidates must attend dental school and complete a surgical residency. This type of surgery can be used to repair trauma-related damage to the face and jaw. In addition, these surgeons repair damage caused by birth defects. This type of injury requires repairing tissue and nerve damage, as well as cosmetic repairs. Likewise, surgery may be needed when people have dental problems that cannot be corrected by an orthodontist.
Patients may need Maxillofacial Surgery Effingham IL for a soft tissue injury. Visit the specialists at The Center For Jaw and Facial Surgery P.C. Soft tissue injuries involve the skin and gums. These are very delicate procedures because facial nerves are involved. For example, cuts on the face must be sutured without damaging any nerves. Additionally, trauma results in facial fractures. Treatment protocol is determined by where the fracture is located and how serious it is. Fractures must be immobilized and, in the past, the jaws were wired together. Today, surgeons use a technique known as rigid fixation. This process involves using plates and screws to stabilize fractures. This method is not as painful and requires less time for patients to heal.
Some people visit Maxillofacial Surgery Effingham IL for help with jaw disorders. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD or TMJ) are common. This joint connects the jaw to the bones in the skull. The joint is what allows one to chew, yawn and move the jaw. Some TMJ sufferers have problems with their jaws locking in place. There are several types of surgery for TMJ. Arthroscopic surgery may be performed when a patient has a locked jaw. A small incision is made near the ear, and the surgeon inserts the scope to view the joint. Hopefully, the problem will be found and repaired. Patients with more serious issues, such as a tumor, may require open-joint surgery. This surgery requires that the entire joint be exposed, and patients need more healing time. It is very traumatic to have an injury to the face or jaw. It is good to know that skilled professionals are ready to help.
