Any injury to the face or jaw is referred to as maxillofacial trauma. Skin abrasions, burns, blockages in the sinuses or nasal passages, injuries to the orbital (eye) sockets, jawbone fractures, and missing or damaged teeth can all be signs of facial trauma. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bleeding, bruising, and numbness, while fractures to the facial bones may also result in difficulty breathing, speaking, or seeing.

Other dangerous or even fatal symptoms associated with maxillofacial trauma include brain injury, breathing blockage, heavy bleeding, and shock. Treatment for maxillofacial trauma varies depending upon the type and severity of the injury.

A thorough physical examination, x-rays, and a systematic study of structure and systems will all be part of the treatment. In some circumstances, it may be necessary to delay diagnosis and treatment until the swelling goes down or until more serious injuries have healed.