A Guide to Preventing Common Facial Injuries
Falls, crashes, accidents at home, and sports can cause injuries to your face, but here’s how to protect it.
Your face is often the first point of impact when accidents happen. Whether it’s an elbow during a basketball game, a missed step on the stairs, or a flying object while doing home improvement projects or yard work, injuries can occur in an instant. While some situations are unavoidable, many common facial injuries are more preventable than you might think.
Here are a few simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of facial injury:
Broken Noses
This is one of the most common facial fractures. It often happens during sports, falls, car crashes, or physical fights.
“You can lower your risk by wearing the right protective gear during contact sports like basketball, soccer, or football,” shares Sahir Gharib, family medicine and sports medicine physician at PIH Health. “If you ride a bike, skateboard, or scooter, wear a helmet—ideally one with a face guard for added protection.” At home, reduce fall risks by keeping floors clear, using handrails on stairs and making sure hallways are well-lit.
If you injure your nose and have swelling, pain, or bleeding that won’t stop, get it checked by a health professional.
Cuts and Lacerations
Facial cuts can happen in many ways—sharp objects, yard work equipment, or even a pet’s claw. Kids are especially prone to cuts on their faces because they’re active and still learning coordination.
To prevent injuries, keep sharp objects out of children’s reach and use protective eyewear when working with tools. Secure loose rugs and pad sharp furniture corners, especially if you have young children. Teach kids not to run with sharp objects and to be gentle with pets.
“Even small cuts should be cleaned well,” notes Dr. Gharib. “Deeper cuts may need stitches to heal properly and reduce scarring.”
Dental Injuries
Chipped or knocked-out teeth are common during sports and falls.
One of the best ways to protect your teeth is to wear a mouthguard when playing sports. A custom mouthguard from a dentist offers the best fit, but store-bought versions also provide protection. Always wear a seat belt in the car and make sure children are properly secured in car seats.
If a tooth is knocked out, try placing it back in the socket if possible or store it in milk and seek dental care right away.
Eye Injuries
Eye injuries range from mild scratches to serious trauma. They often occur during sports, yard work, or home repairs.
“Wearing safety glasses when mowing the lawn, trimming branches, or using power tools can prevent serious damage,” says Dr. Gharib. “Protective sports goggles are helpful for high-risk activities.”
If something gets in your eye, resist the urge to rub it. Gently rinse with clean water and seek care if pain or vision changes continue.
Jaw and Facial Bone Fractures
Fractures of the jaw or cheekbones usually happen during car crashes, serious falls, or assaults.
Wear a seat belt every time you’re in a vehicle. Helmets are essential for biking, skiing, and other fast-moving activities. Installing grab bars in bathrooms and using non-slip mats can help prevent falls, especially for older adults.
Facial injuries can happen in an instant, but taking simple precautions can go a long way in protecting your health, appearance, and overall well-being. By staying aware of everyday risks and using the right safety measures, you can significantly reduce your chances of injury. If you have concerns about a facial injury or want personalized guidance, learn more about Dr. Gharib at PIHHealth.org/Gharib or find a provider near you at PIHHealth.org/Find-A-Doctor.
