Facial and Dental Trauma Assessment in Singapore
Orofacial injuries affect the teeth, mouth, jaws or face. They may result from falls, sports, road incidents, workplace accidents or other impacts. Early assessment can identify injuries that are not immediately obvious and support appropriate coordination of dental, surgical or hospital care.
Types of orofacial injury
Injuries may include displaced or fractured teeth, cuts to the lips or mouth, jaw fractures, cheekbone or eye-socket fractures, and changes to the bite. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bleeding, numbness, double vision, difficulty opening the mouth or teeth no longer meeting normally.
When is urgent care needed?
Seek emergency care for breathing difficulty, uncontrolled bleeding, loss of consciousness, severe eye symptoms, significant facial deformity or rapidly increasing swelling. Suspected head, neck or multiple injuries should be assessed through an emergency department.
What happens during assessment?
The clinician will ask how and when the injury occurred, examine the face, mouth, teeth, bite and jaw movement, and review appropriate imaging. Treatment depends on the structures involved and may require coordination with restorative dentists, orthodontists, emergency physicians or other surgical specialties.
Treatment and follow-up
Management may include wound care, stabilising injured teeth or jaws, repairing fractures, monitoring healing or arranging later dental restoration. Some procedures are performed in a clinic and others in hospital. Follow-up is important because changes in bite, sensation, tooth vitality or jaw function may become clearer over time.
Frequently asked questions
Should a knocked-out adult tooth be treated urgently?
Yes. Prompt dental or emergency assessment is important. Handle the tooth carefully by the crown rather than the root and seek professional advice without delay.
Can a facial fracture heal without surgery?
Some fractures may be monitored, while others require treatment to restore function or position. The decision depends on examination, imaging and symptoms.
This information is general and does not replace an individual clinical assessment.
Arrange an assessment
If you are unsure whether specialist assessment is appropriate, you can contact The Oral Maxillofacial Practice (OMP) or speak with your dentist about a referral. Your clinician can review your symptoms, imaging and treatment options.