Dr. McLelland’s advanced training has given him the knowledge he needs to determine the most appropriate treatment and the hands-on skill to perform that treatment. He also has an excellent eye for aesthetics and compassion for his patients who are feeling concerned about their appearance following a facial injury. Four years at Cook County Hospital in inner city Chicago gaining experience in the full range and scope of simple to complex facial injuries in unmatched.
Another issue that must be addressed when dealing with a facial injury is the possibility of damage to the many fragile nerves that lie just beneath the skin and control your facial movement, including your ability to smile and speak clearly. Dr. McLelland will take extra care to preserve your nerve function and will discuss any specific concerns with you regarding your care.
CAUSES OF FACIAL TRAUMA
Serious facial trauma can happen out of the blue – a car accident, an injury while playing sports, a sudden fall, or an injury on the job can all lead to sudden and devastating injury. Without prompt and appropriate treatment, scarring or permanent disfiguration can be the result.
These types of accidents often involve insurance plans beyond your regular dental insurance. Personal injury protection and L&I may be involved to pay for your care. Dr. McLelland and the rest of his skilled team have experience working with different insurance plans. A member of our billing team will work with you to make sure that your care is billed appropriately. If you have questions, please contact our office.
EMERGENCIES INVOLVING TEETH
Any time a tooth is knocked loose or completely knocked out (a condition known as an avulsed tooth), you are dealing with a dental emergency. When dealt with quickly, an avulsed tooth can actually be re-implanted in its socket.
If you do happen to lose a tooth in this manner, gently collect the tooth (and avoid the temptation to wipe it off since this can dislodge delicate ligament remnants that can help successfully restore the tooth). Place the tooth in a container of salt water or milk and bring it with you to our office.
We’ll also perform an examination to make sure that the bone beneath your gums was not damaged in the injury that caused your tooth to come out. If we do find damage, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan.