Soft tissue injury in the orofacial area
Typically results from a direct blow to the mouth resulting from a fall or impact by an opponent or object
Lacerations may be an indirect resul...
Determine where and how the injury was sustained; common in sports but also seen as result of fighting, assault, and abuse
Determine areas of numbness or loss of muscle control to eval...
Most oral lacerations can be left to heal by secondary intention. Only those that are >1 cm, gapping at rest, or require hemostasis may need to be repaired 4.
Copious irrig...
Laceration associated with fracture or involving nerves or salivary ducts should be referred for definitive care as soon as possible.
Refer dental trauma to a dent...
American Dental Association Council on Access, Prevention and Interprofessional Relations, Council on Scientific Affairs. Using mouthguards to reduce the incidence and severity of s...
Stitches placed inside the mouth will dissolve on their own. Sutures in the skin should be removed in 4 to 5 days to prevent significant scarring.
Return to play depends on the severity...
Sign up for a 10-day FREE Trial now and receive full access to all content.