Facial Trauma
Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants – Grand Rapids & Rockford MI
An oral and maxillofacial specialist is thoroughly qualified to repair facial injuries. These professionals are well versed in emergency care, acute treatment, and long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation – not just for physical reasons, but for emotional ones as well. Injuries to the face, by their very nature, impart a high degree of emotional as well as physical trauma to patients. The science and art of treating these injuries requires special training involving a “hands on” experience and an understanding of how the treatment provided will influence the patient’s long-term function and appearance.
Dr. Van Heukelom, Dr. Noordhoek, Dr. Feigenbaum or Dr. Bulcher meets and exceeds these modern standards. They are trained, skilled, and uniquely qualified to manage and treat facial trauma. They are on staff at local hospitals and deliver emergency room coverage for facial injuries, which include the following conditions:
- Facial lacerations
- Intraoral lacerations
- Avulsed (knocked out) teeth
- Fractured facial bones (cheek, nose, or eye socket)
- Fractured jaws (upper and lower jaw)
The Nature of Maxillofacial Trauma
There are a number of possible causes of facial trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, accidental falls, sports injuries, interpersonal violence, and work-related injuries. Types of facial injuries can range from injuries to teeth to extremely severe injuries to the skin and bones of the face. Typically, facial injuries are classified as either soft tissue injuries (skin and gums), bone injuries (fractures), or injuries to special regions (such as the eyes, facial nerves, or the salivary glands).
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Soft Tissue Injuries of the Maxillofacial Region
When soft tissue injuries, such as lacerations, occur on the face they are repaired by suturing. In addition to the obvious concern of providing a repair that yields the best cosmetic result possible, care is taken to inspect for and treat injuries to structures such as facial nerves, salivary glands, and salivary ducts (or outflow channels). Drs. Van Heukelom, Noordhoek, Feigenbaum or Bulcher is a well-trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon and is proficient at diagnosing and treating all types of facial lacerations.
Bone Injuries of the Maxillofacial Region
Fractures to the bones in the face are treated in a similar manner to fractures in other parts of the body. The specific form of treatment is determined by various factors, which include the location of the fracture, the severity of the fracture, and the age and general health of the patient. When an arm or leg is fractured a cast is often applied to stabilize the bone to allow for proper healing. Since a cast cannot be placed on the face, other means have been developed to stabilize facial fractures.
One of these options involves wiring the jaws together for certain fractures of the upper and/or lower jaw. Certain other types of fractures of the jaw are best treated and stabilized by the surgical placement of small plates and screws at the involved site. This technique of treatment can often allow for healing and eliminates the necessity of having the jaws wired together. This technique is called “rigid fixation” of a fracture. The relatively recent development and use of rigid fixation has profoundly improved the recovery period for many patients, allowing them to return to normal function more quickly.
The treatment of facial fractures should be accomplished in a thorough and predictable manner. More importantly, the patient’s facial appearance should be minimally affected. An attempt at accessing the facial bones through the fewest incisions necessary is always made. At the same time, the incisions that become necessary are designed to be small and, whenever possible, are placed so that the resultant scar is hidden.
Injuries to the Teeth & Surrounding Dental Structures
Isolated injuries to teeth are quite common and may require the expertise of various dental specialists. Oral surgeons usually are involved in treating fractures in the supporting bone, or in replanting teeth that have been displaced or knocked out. These types of injuries are treated by one of a number of forms of splinting (stabilizing by wiring or bonding teeth together). If a tooth is knocked out it should be placed in salt water or milk. The sooner the tooth is re-inserted into the dental socket the better chance it will survive. Therefore, the patient should see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. Never attempt to wipe the tooth off, since remnants of the ligament that hold the tooth in the jaw are attached and are vital to the success of replanting the tooth. Other dental specialists may be called upon, such as endodontists, who may be asked to perform root canal therapy, and/or restorative dentists, who may need to repair or rebuild fractured teeth. In the event that injured teeth cannot be saved or repaired, dental implants are often now utilized as replacements for missing teeth.
The proper treatment of facial injuries is now the realm of specialists who are well versed in emergency care, acute treatment, long-term reconstruction, and rehabilitation of the patient.
Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants
Patient Review By Emma A
Molly at the front desk was SO SO SO helpful to me with scheduling my appointment, she was so kind to me and patient. She helped me get all of my insurance set up and told me all of the steps I needed to complete. She stayed on the phone with me throughout the process and found information when she could to make my transition to services easier. She does a truly awesome job! Thank you!
- Emma A
Patient Review By Barbara S
Pleasant, professional and courteous.
- Barbara S
Patient Review By Megan L
Dr. Noordhoek and her assistant Cassidy were fantastic! I was so nervous for the extraction but they both talked me through the procedure making sure I was doing ok the entire time. I will recommend this office to my family and friends!!
- Megan L
Patient Review By Arnie D
Although I don't like having dental work done, this was a positive experience. Based on my experience, I would highly recommend Dr. Noordhoek.
- Arnie D
Patient Review By Hope Webster
Highly recommend Dr. Noordhoek and her team!
- Hope Webster
Patient Review By Frank E
Excellent care from beginning to end of business needed. I felt safe with everyone. Myself Nurse was excellent. The only thing she didn’t supply was a big screen tv while sitting in the chair. Thanks everyone!
- Frank E
Patient Review By Tracey J
If I could give the Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants 10 Stars * on everything I definitely would. It was a huge relief off my mind knowing that I was finally going to receive the care I needed and deserved. Without any question or judgement Dr. Van Heukelom went right to work to help my tooth extraction site mess from another dentist office. I was truly blessed to have been referred to her office. I mattered to them!! My situation mattered!! and mostly 100% my healing mattered to them!!! I trusted them completely. I was scared to trust again, dentists are scary to most of us...but I'm here to tell you please don't be with this office. All of the staff will make you feel comfortable, important, and cared for completely. If you need oral surgery or your friends need oral surgery... don't hesitate to give this office a call. I guarantee you will be satisfied just as I have been. Thank you again to the center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants of Grand Rapids, Michigan for the care and respect you showed me during my visits. You all really are the BEST.... Tracey J.
- Tracey J
Patient Review By Kristine M
My 9 year old son had to have a tooth extracted from the roof of his mouth. He and I were both a little nervous about the process but our consultation with your office put us both at ease. Dr. Noordhoek performed the surgery and she was so great with him. She explained every step of the process and made him feel comfortable right away. We would both highly recommend the Center for Oral Surgery!
- Kristine M
Patient Review By Kara B
My son got his wisdom teeth removed by Dr. Noordhoek. Dr. Noordhoek and the staff at the Rockford office were so kind! From our first referral visit through surgery the staff and Dr. were so informative and welcoming. The office was great about reminders for appointments and follow up procedures.
- Kara B
Patient Review By Jack A
you all were VERY kind , polite people and my experience was great! i told everybody about how fast and pain free you made my visit and you guys are the ones to go to if in need of fast friendly work! thank you very much Jack
- Jack A
Patient Review By Maria P
Coming from one who tears up with just a basic cleaning, I had 3 teeth extracted all in one visit. It's been 8 days since I had the procedure and I have had a perfect healing process. To this day, zero pain. Dr. Panek does amazing work, makes sure you understand what the procedure consists of and that you are comfortable and informed from start to finish. Great Dr, Great staff & of course, grateful patient here. 🙂
- Maria P
Patient Review By Cami Z
First (and hopefully only) dental implant - Dr and her Assistant explained every step in the process and how to care for the area after the initial surgery. Plus all information was provided in writing. They both patiently answered my questions and continued to explain what was happening throughout. No pain and totally felt comfortable and that I was in "good hands". Thank you!
- Cami Z
Patient Review By Jim B
Extra easy, wonderful staff, quick and above all NO pain. I could not have been more satisfied.
- Jim B
Patient Review By Stephen H
Everyone says getting your wisdom teeth out is terrible but I had no issues before, during, or after my procedure. The entire staff was friendly, helpful, and definitely good at what they do!
- Stephen H
Patient Review By Noah C
(Auto correct messed up the name spelling on the last one) but I am very greatful for Dr Noordhoek and her team, and all they did for me with my surgery, and the process of recovering too, and I thank God it was her and her office who helped me!! Thanks again!
- Noah C
Patient Review By Noah C
Very Greatful for Dr. Booed horn and the team for doing a wonderful job on my jaw surgery and the whole process of recovering, I have no complaints and I thank God I had her and her office do my surgery!!!
- Noah C
Patient Review By Mary Magirl M
Thi8s being my first extraction, I expected a lot of pain.I experienced no pain from start throough the healing process. I credited this to the team working together toassure this would be a comfortable experience for me.
- Mary Magirl M
Patient Review By Waukesha J
I write this review for my daughter she had it wisdom teeth removed staff was very friendly the wait time was very short to be seen and the procedure was really quick they really made her feel comfortable and secure she said even during the procedures they kept asking her if she was okay and if everything was going well I think is really great to be concerned while doing a procedure she end up having a few stitches within the area and they explained to her how they were disappeared and what to do is far as keeping the area clean and what foods to eat until she heals definitely a great place to go I'm thinking of going myself for dinner work thank you again oOal Surgery of Grand Rapids Mi
- Waukesha J
Patient Review By Kassy C
I would highly recommend Dr. Grinzinger for anyone who is hoping for an efficient and calming procedure to take place!
- Kassy C
Patient Review By David T
Dr Noordhoek and her staff were very professional and friendly. Dr Noordhoek was extremely thorough in going through my health records and that was very comforting because I have some health issues. All aspects were A+. This has been my only visit but it was a great experience and I would highly recommend their services.
- David T
Patient Review By Darin S
This was my last procedure for my implant of installing the post. Mark Grinzinger DDS,MD performed the surgery and was exceptional at his job. Asking me through out process if I was okey or uncomfortable. Went above and beyond from other places I’ve had work at. His assistants were stellar also in making me as comfortable as possible and even bringing in a fan for me or asking if I’d like window open. If you need any oral surgery I highly recommend this place and Dr Grinzinger. AAA+++ By the way. Grinzinger isn’t in drop down so we chose Emily at random
- Darin S
Patient Review By Harold R
The doctor and staff have excellent "bed side manner". They were very good at helping me be comfortable and helping me feel that I was in good hands. At this point, I have had a double extraction (including one wisdom tooth) in December of 2021 and an implant in March of 2022. All has went as prescribed and I am very satisfied.
- Harold R
Patient Review By Randall H
Skilled and courteous Doctor and Nurse
- Randall H
Patient Review By Sharon W
They worked me in as an emergency tooth extraction. I was very thankful to get the procedure down and everyone was great.
- Sharon W
Patient Review By Alan R
Very well-run office with professional care!
- Alan R
Patient Review By Robert b
Outstanding!
- Robert b
Patient Review By Leah M
Dr. Noordhoek was very friendly and made me feel comfortable during my procedure, this really helped me not be nervous about having all four wisdom teeth removed. My doctor and her staff made sure that I was well informed on how to take care of my teeth after the removal, giving me both verbal and written instructions that I was able to take home. The meeting a couple of weeks before the actual procedure was also very helpful because it allowed to me know how the procedure would go and allowed me to prepare the necessary supplies for my recovery. I also liked that I was given options on how I wanted my procedure to be carried out. Lastly, I love that they let me keep the teeth that were removed and they put them in a secure bag.
- Leah M
Patient Review By Marilyn J
Dr. Emily and her staff are great!!!! They tell you everything that is going on, and every step that is being done. They make you feel comfortable right from the beginning. I would definitely recommend to anybody.
- Marilyn J
Patient Review By Sierra P
The doctor was very nice and explained everything that was going to be done.
- Sierra P
Patient Review By Richard B
Dr. Pisano was very good at explaining everything he was doing, and was very friendly. I felt like I was in really good hands during the extraction and then the implant placement. The assistants were also very friendly. I highly recommend the Center for Oral Surgery and Dental Implants for anything that requires an oral surgeon.
- Richard B
Patient Review By bill h
I went to Rockford location for a tooth extraction.The staff was friendly/. They got me an appointment very quick. When it came time for the tooth extracrtion Dr. Pisano was very rude and seemed to be in a hurry. He said simple extraction. He started to numb area when needle was in gum he moved and hit a nerve. First time ever, while numbing a doctor repositioned needle inside the gum. He said have to stay still. He then proceeded to numb outside part of gum. waited few minutes started extraction. i told him it wasnt numb and hurting me. He said im one decided didnt want it numbed. .He made rude comment and proceeded. I paid almost $500 to have done, how many people would say just pull dont worry about the numbing.
- bill h
Patient Review By roxanne s
I have been to this office twice and Dr. Billips has made it really easy for me. I am afraid of a dentist and she talks and asks if I'm ok all the time she is working.She makes me comfortable with her. Thank you Dr. for everything you have done for me. 6162134750 cell for any text
- roxanne s
Patient Review By Robert K
We never like to have teeth pulled, but Dr Noordhoek was very professional and sensitive to my overall health. Staff was very knowledgeable and helpful also. Would definitely recommend
- Robert K
Patient Review By Chuck N
Dr. Emily VanHeukelom and her staff have done a wonderful job with my three implants. They have been patient, answered every question that I have had, and even made me smile. I am very please their professional work and kindness.
- Chuck N
Patient Review By Connie G
I was extremely satisfied with my care and am already planning on having more work done there.
- Connie G
Patient Review By Kim C
Courteous, professional, and organized office/experience. Everyone was extremely kind and helpful. I wouldn't hesitate to return if necessary and would definitely recommend Dr. Noordhoek to anyone needing oral surgery.
- Kim C
Patient Review By Nancy P
No one is excited to go to the dentist. This office had a relaxed atmosphere that did not cause anxiety. So, if I ever need to visit the office in the future, I will not have any worries about this.
- Nancy P
Patient Review By Timothy C
Much nicer experience than what I anticipated.
- Timothy C
Patient Review By Theodotta S
Doctor and staff tried very hard to make an unpleasant experience as pleasant as possible. Although I hope I never have to come back, I would strongly recommend this office for anyone who needs a tooth extracted.
- Theodotta S
Patient Review By Kimberly D
Due to the Covid-19 virus the staff was prepared and professional in making sure it was safe and healthy. They made me feel very safe and comfortable. Very nice people.
- Kimberly D
Patient Review By Deb T
I had Dr.Billups remove a tooth a couple years ago and then last week Dr. Van Heukelom extracted two teeth. I have to say, I will never go any place but here for oral surgery. I have already recommended them to my sister. There is a very kind, caring and calming atmosphere in this office. Both Dr. Billups and Dr. Van Heukelom are great. They explained the procedure and asked if I had any questions. Both of them were very considerate of my health issues and took this into consideration with the procedure. This is the only place to go if you need oral surgery work done.
- Deb T
Patient Review By Robert S
Excellent service and care
- Robert S
Patient Review By Ashley H
Both Dr. Rosie and the staff were very friendly! Everyone made me feel very at ease before and during my procedure. I was rather nervous but Dr. Noordhoek assured me being nervous is normal and that everything was going to be fine, and it was! I would highly recommend these services to a friend or family member!
- Ashley H
Patient Review By Sharon L
I trust the doctor and the procedures going to be done. The building is very professional looking and clean and disinfected. I would recommend to any of my friends to go to this establishment and doctor.
- Sharon L
Patient Review By Lisa M
I was incredibly anxious and cannot say enough about the level of care here! Everyone here made my experience way better than I expected ( not an easy feat :).
- Lisa M
Patient Review By Mary W
I was so nervous but everyone in the office was calm and non judgmental. The office called me the next day to check on me, I had no issues with the biopsy site at all! If anyone is fearful about dental procedures, this is the office for you! I really can't say enough about how good they are!
- Mary W
Patient Review By Lynne B
Dr. Rosie is cheerful and pleasant; none of the stuff that she said "could go wrong" did; my tooth was out in a "flash"; no pain throughout -- whatsoever. For me, I would have liked to know of the x-rays in advance -- I would not have worn jewelry. For me, the instructions regarding the mouth rinse were confusing -- different in the written, the prescription, and the bottle; today it's been 3 weeks; I have a small amount of rinse left; I will NOT use it; although it leaves my teeth feeling clean, it makes my tongue feel funny -- almost as if it went to sleep on the end.
- Lynne B
Patient Review By Leah A
I felt so safe with this organization. From the staff, to the Doctors. Dr. Panek's work was simply flawless... I did not even need to take pain medication after he performed a cyst removal in my jaw along with a wisdom tooth extraction. I was quite nervous for the surgery and he was so comforting and professional. My husband and I are so grateful for Dr. Panek!
- Leah A
Patient Review By Betsy T
I felt so comfortable and welcomed there. I was greeted by a smiling face with every turn I took in that office. Dr. Emily Van Heukelom .....you have met your calling. Couldn't have asked for a better oral surgeon. You are so calm and it transferred over to me during the procedure. Most importantly, I didnt feel judged by anybody in the office because of the condition of my teeth. The focus was on having a healthier smile. I can't thank you enough!
- Betsy T
Patient Review By Diana B
Dr. Panek is definitely a man doing what God created him to be. His knowledge in oral and maxillofacial surgery is exceptional; in addition, very rare in Michigan. By the time I heard of Dr. Panek, I had already exhausted many specialists. A sinus lift with 4 implants already failed from another dentist. I had no bone in my mouth and my arch of my mouth was little to none. No matter how my dentures fit, I could not keep them from falling out. I was without teeth for a year before I was informed of Dr. Panek. He was very patient, compassionate, and understanding. He listened to my story and then tried to explain my predicament. I did not know anything at the time of zygoma implants, however he stated that it would be the best way and actually the only way of guaranteeing me to have teeth. He would do 4 zygoma implants. All the way through surgery, as well as the six months of healing, Dr. Panek and his assistants were nothing short of courteous, considerate and caring, going above and beyond the call of duty. It was as if they were traveling with me on this new journey. Dr. Panek is truly gifted. I can honestly say that a day doesn’t go by without my utmost gratitude for Dr. Panek and his assistants. I would still be toothless today if he would’ve been like all the rest stating, ‘There is nothing more we can do for you.’ But instead, he did an extremely difficult surgery, flawless and with brilliance. Dr. Panek, without a doubt, is # 1 in my book!
- Diana B