Her Face Was Broken by Violence

Dental Professionals Gave Her a Chance to Heal

In July 2025, Brazil watched in shock the story of Juliana, a 25-year-old woman who was brutally beaten by her ex-partner inside her home in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. According to medical reports, she endured no fewer than 61 punches to the face, resulting in multiple fractures and extensive facial deformities. The crime gained national attention not only due to the extreme violence but also because of the emotional impact and the complexity of the treatment required.

Juliana’s face was severely compromised. She sustained fractures to the mandible, upper maxilla, zygomatic region (cheekbone), and nose. The case required a highly specialized facial reconstructive surgery, which was performed at the Onofre Lopes University Hospital in Natal.

What few people know is that the team responsible for reconstructing her face was composed of dentists specialized in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, with essential technical support from Dental Assistants trained to work in hospital surgical environments.

🥰 A Dental Specialty That Goes Beyond Teeth

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a dental specialty focused on the surgical diagnosis and treatment of injuries, deformities, and fractures of the facial bones. This includes the mandible, maxilla, zygomatic bones, eye sockets, and even the nose.

These professionals operate in hospital settings, side by side with anesthesiologists, plastic surgeons, surgical Dental Assistants, and emergency teams. They are trained for critical interventions in cases such as:

• Facial trauma from accidents

• Interpersonal violence, like Juliana’s case

• Severe dental infections with systemic risk

• Tumors and congenital or acquired deformities

• Orthognathic surgeries (correction of skeletal facial abnormalities)

🚨 The Complexity of Juliana’s Surgery

Given the severity of her injuries, Juliana underwent a long and complex reconstructive surgery. Titanium plates and screws were used to reposition and stabilize the fractured bones. The goal was not only to restore facial aesthetics but also mastication, breathing, and speech function.

During surgery, the role of a surgically trained Dental Assistant with expertise in sterile technique and surgical safety was critical. This professional:

• Precisely prepares the surgical environment

• Organizes and delivers sterile instruments

• Assists with suction and maintains visibility of the surgical field

• Ensures the surgical team workflow is smooth

• Supports the patient pre- and postoperatively

It’s a silent role, but indispensable. Without proper technical support, the surgeon’s performance is compromised and in cases like Juliana’s, every second counts.

🎓 How Does One Become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

To reach this level of practice, a dentist must:

1. Complete a degree in Dentistry (5 years)

2. Undertake a residency or specialization in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (3 to 4 years)

3. Train in hospital environments, including on-call rotations and trauma units

Meanwhile, a surgically focused Dental Assistant should pursue:

• Training in surgical instrumentation

• Strong knowledge of anatomy, sterilization, and infection control

• Clinical experience in both dental and hospital settings

• The ability to work quickly, discreetly, and empathetically in critical situations

Together, these professionals form a powerful facial reconstruction task force.

#dentistry #dentalassistants #dentalhygiene #oralhealth