Trauma
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Their broad-based and extensive dental and medical training in the hospital-based environment uniquely qualify oral and maxillofacial surgeons to treat and repair injuries to the face, jaws, mouth and teeth.

Etiology

Virtually all injuries result from some form of trauma, which may be defined as a physical force resulting in injury. Injuries may also be the result of chemical, thermal or even radiation trauma but these occur far less commonly than physical trauma.

Such injuries clinically important for several reasons;
    - The soft tissues and bones of the face give anterior protection to the cranium
    - Facial appearance is a major factor in appearance
    - The whole anatomical region is associated with several important functions of daily life including sight, smell, eating, breathing and talking. If any of these suffer significant impairment,, it has potentially serious effects on the patient's lifestyle and quality of life