Facial Trauma Treatment in Tampa

Expert Facial Trauma Care by Dr. Ernesto Valiente, DMD

Facial Trauma Illustration

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Ernesto Valiente provides expert care for facial trauma and injuries. He is extensively trained in emergency care, acute treatment, and long-term reconstruction—not only to restore physical function but also to support emotional recovery. Dr. Valiente is uniquely qualified to manage facial injuries with a focus on long-term outcomes for both appearance and function.

Facial trauma can be emotionally and physically distressing. Treating these injuries effectively requires specialized training, hands-on experience, and an understanding of how each treatment decision affects future health and aesthetics. Dr. Valiente meets and exceeds modern standards in managing:

  • Intraoral lacerations

  • Avulsed (knocked-out) teeth

  • Fractured facial bones (cheek, nose, eye socket)

  • Fractured jaws (upper and lower)

Take the first step toward recovery. Call us today at (813) 968-5400 or Book Online to schedule personalized care with Dr. Valiente at the Center for Oral Surgery and Dental Implants.

Understanding Maxillofacial Trauma

Facial injuries can result from various causes, including car accidents, falls, sports injuries, workplace incidents, and interpersonal violence. These injuries can range from minor tooth damage to severe trauma affecting the skin and facial bones.

Facial trauma is generally categorized as:

  • Soft tissue injuries (skin and gums)

  • Bone injuries (facial fractures)

  • Injuries to special regions (eyes, facial nerves, salivary glands)

Soft Tissue Injuries

Facial lacerations and other soft tissue injuries are typically treated with sutures. In addition to ensuring optimal cosmetic results, Dr. Valiente carefully evaluates and treats any underlying damage to facial nerves, salivary glands, or ducts. His training in oral and maxillofacial surgery ensures precise diagnosis and expert treatment of all types of soft tissue trauma.

Bone Injuries of the Face

Facial bone fractures are managed similarly to other bone injuries, but due to the complexity of the face, special techniques are required. Treatment depends on the fracture’s location, severity, and the patient’s age and overall health.

  • Jaw Wiring: Some jaw fractures may require temporary wiring of the upper and lower jaws.

  • Rigid Fixation: Many facial fractures are best stabilized with small plates and screws—a technique called rigid fixation. This method often eliminates the need to wire the jaws and promotes faster recovery.

Whenever possible, Dr. Valiente uses the fewest and smallest incisions necessary, strategically placing them to minimize visible scarring. The goal is always a predictable recovery with minimal impact on appearance.

Dental Trauma and Tooth Injuries

Isolated tooth injuries are common and often require collaboration between dental specialists. Dr. Valiente treats:

  • Fractures in the supporting bone

  • Displaced or avulsed (knocked-out) teeth

Treatment may involve splinting the affected teeth using wiring or bonding. If a tooth is knocked out, place it in milk or saline and see a dentist or oral surgeon immediately. Avoid wiping the tooth, as the ligament fibers attached are critical for successful replanting.

Other specialists, such as endodontists (for root canals) or restorative dentists, may assist in treatment. If a damaged tooth cannot be saved, dental implants are often recommended as a long-term solution.

Compassionate, Comprehensive Trauma Care

Dr. Valiente provides complete care for facial trauma—from emergency treatment to long-term rehabilitation. His goal is to restore function, appearance, and peace of mind through expert surgical care and a patient-first approach.