A broken or dislocated jaw involves an injury to the mandible, the primary bone of the lower face, or its displacement from the skull joints.
Understanding a Broken or Dislocated Jaw
The mandible is a U-shaped bone that connects to the skull via the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). A fracture occurs when this bone breaks, while a dislocation happens when the bone moves out of its normal position in one or both TMJs.
Broken vs Dislocated Jaw: Key Differences
While both injuries cause pain, they differ in cause and presentation:
- Fractures: Usually result from direct trauma. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, workplace accidents, assaults, and motor vehicle crashes. Men and people aged 20 to 29 are most frequently affected.
- Dislocations: Often occur when the mouth is opened too wide during a yawn, a dental procedure, or while eating, though facial trauma can also cause them.
Identifying Broken Jaw Symptoms
A fracture typically follows a traumatic event. Signs may include:
- Difficulty speaking or an inability to open the mouth fully.
- A feeling that the teeth do not align correctly (malocclusion).
- Bruising or swelling of the jaw, and potentially bruising under the tongue.
- Numbness in the lower lip or chin.
- Loose or missing teeth and bleeding inside the mouth.
- In some cases, a cut in the ear canal.
If the jaw is dislocated, the mouth may be twisted to one side, and the person may struggle to swallow or close their mouth.
Diagnosis and Broken Jaw Treatment
Doctors diagnose these injuries through a physical exam, checking for facial deformity and testing the stability of the mandible. They may use a “straight blade test” by placing a wooden stick between the teeth. Imaging typically involves a panoramic X-ray or a CT scan.
Medical Interventions
Depending on the severity, a broken jaw treatment plan may include:
- Non-surgical care: For stable fractures, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may wire the upper and lower teeth together.
- Broken jaw surgery: Unstable fractures may require plates to be installed across the break to restore motion.
- Medications: Antibiotics are used for open fractures involving tissue or gum damage, and a tetanus shot may be administered.
For a dislocated jaw, a provider performs manual repositioning to pop the bone back into place. They may use a Barton bandage to keep the jaw stable during healing. Frequent dislocations may require surgery to tighten supporting ligaments.
Recovery and Prevention
Most fractures heal within one to two months. Recovery involves following a soft-food diet, taking prescribed antibiotics, and avoiding opening the mouth too wide for several weeks if the jaw was dislocated.
To prevent these injuries, wear protective gear during sports, drive safely, and avoid violent situations.
FAQ
How do you know if your jaw is broken or dislocated?
A break usually follows a hard impact and may cause numbness in the chin or loose teeth. A dislocation often happens after opening the mouth too wide and may leave the jaw twisted to one side.
How is a broken jaw diagnosed?
Doctors use physical exams to check alignment and stability, often supplemented by panoramic X-rays or CT scans.
What can I do for a suspected break before reaching a doctor?
Apply ice to reduce swelling and avoid moving the jaw. You can use a bandage to wrap the chin to the top of the head for immobilization.
How long does it take for a broken jaw to heal?
With proper treatment, the bone typically heals in one to two months.
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate emergency care (call 911) if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing due to the tongue losing support.
- Uncontrolled bleeding.
- Signs of shock.
- Potential head or spine injuries.
Visit a hospital or oral surgeon immediately if you have jaw pain, a misaligned bite, or an inability to open or close your mouth.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
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Photo: yawning hunter, BY 2.0, via flickr.com
approved by: Medica Health team