Ouch! What to Expect When Recovering from a Broken Jaw

Given all the hazards we face in life, breaking your jaw may seem a very unlikely event. However, here is a list of all the ways you can suffer this serious fracture. Have you ever …

• Fallen off a bike?
• Gotten hit with the ball or other equipment playing rugby, soccer, football, basketball, baseball, hockey, lacrosse or even golf?
• Fallen while cheerleading, dancing or doing gymnastics?
• Tumbled off a boat, Jet Ski or the dock at the lake?
• Suffered a horseback riding incident?
• Crashed your car, truck or motorcycle?
• Gotten into a fist fight – or even played rough with the kids at home?

Any and all of these seemingly fun activities can lead to a broken jaw, says Dr. Anthony Farole, an experienced maxillofacial surgeon who’s cared for thousands of patients who have suffered facial trauma in the Philadelphia area.

Broken Jaw Recovery

“Almost all the things we enjoy doing expose us to some level of risk,” Dr. Farole points out. “You could fall off a stool while you’re getting supplies from a high shelf or even just slip on the kitchen floor, and boom! You may need facial surgery to deal with broken or chipped bones and yes, possibly, a broken jaw.”

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t live life to the fullest, Dr. Farole emphasizes. Naturally, you should take all wise precautions – for example, using protective sports’ equipment, driving defensively and taking extra care when climbing ladders or stools.

But should you suffer facial trauma and need treatment for a broken jaw, here are crucial things to know.

Dislocated Jaw Treatment

If you injure your jaw, it will most likely be treated as an emergency. While waiting for medical care, you should support your lower jaw to help stabilize it and keep your airway open.

If your jaw is dislocated, Dr. Farole will gently move it back into the correct position. Sometimes this can be done manually. You’ll receive local anesthetics and muscle relaxants to minimize the pain and to help your jaw muscles loosen up enough to allow for treatment. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to set the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) back into the normal position.

What if My Jaw is Completely Broken?

Treatment for a jaw fracture might also require surgery, depending on the extent of the injury. Clean breaks may heal on their own while your jaw is immobilized. Multiple fractures of the jawbone or displaced breaks in the part of the bone that’s pushed off to one side may require surgical repair.

Will My Jaw Need to be Wired Shut During Recovery?

Broken and dislocated jaws are usually bandaged or wired shut during recovery.

Dr. Farole may treat your dislocation and minor fracture simply by wrapping a bandage around your head and under your chin to keep you from opening your jaw wide. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can dull the pain and reduce swelling.

Recovery from a jaw fracture or dislocation requires patience. You won’t be able to open your jaw very wide or at all for at least 6 weeks during treatment. Dr. Farole will likely prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics to prevent infection. You’ll also be on a liquid diet to provide you with nutrition during this time while you’re unable to chew solid food.

While we detest thinking of you suffering a broken jaw, we are always here to provide expert emergency care for any facial trauma – and help you through the steps needed to heal fully. If you or a loved one suffer any form of trauma and need emergency assistance, Dr. Farole and his team in Bala Cynwyd are ready to provide you with expert care.

5 Encouraging Facts About a Jaw Fracture: Pacific Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Jaw fractures typically happen as the result of significant facial trauma, like a car accident, a serious sports accident, a fall, or even a fight. Also called a mandibular fracture, a jaw fracture typically refers to a break in your lower jaw (the mandible) while fractures to your upper jaw (the maxilla) are sometimes referred to as midface fractures.

At Pacific Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center in Oakland and San Francisco, California, Brandon Kang, DDS, uses advanced techniques to repair broken jaws, restoring jaw function and repairing or replacing teeth knocked out during your injury. Here are five things he wants his patients to know about these facial fractures.

1. They’re pretty common

Any facial fracture can be emotionally traumatic, and jaw fractures are no different. However, jaw fractures aren’t uncommon — in fact, they’re the second most common fracture after broken noses and 10th most common fracture overall. That means the techniques used to correct jaw fractures have been well tested, so you can feel confident about your treatment.

2. You don’t always need surgery

Jaw surgery plays an important role in repairing many types of jaw fractures — particularly more severe fractures. But for less complex breaks, you might not need to have surgery at all.

Mild fractures where your bones are still in their proper positions can often be treated with rest and immobilization, typically using a special bandage to hold your jaw stable. Dr. Kang gives you instructions on how to care for your broken jaw, including what foods to eat, while it heals.

3. Recovery doesn’t take as long as you think

After a jaw fracture, most people recover in 4-8 weeks. Less serious fractures often require less time. If you’ve lost teeth, it can take a little longer to replace them. Typically, that process doesn’t begin until after your jawbone has healed.

4. Jaws heal well

This means that after your fracture, you can expect to recover normal function after healing. Most people benefit from gentle stretching and other therapeutic exercises to restore strength and flexibility. 

If you’ve had surgery followed by a period of immobility or if you’ve had your jaw wired shut, your jaw will definitely be stiff once it’s healed. In these cases, additional physical therapy may be recommended to relax and strengthen your facial muscles. The key is to follow Dr. Kang’s directions throughout your entire recovery.

5.

You’ll look the same

Many people worry that facial fractures will alter their appearance. Certainly, any facial fracture that’s not properly treated can alter the way you look. (Consider actor Owen Wilson and his twice-broken nose.) 

But while jaw fractures can vary (a lot) in severity, Dr. Kang is skilled in multiple techniques to repair your jaw, restore its function, and make sure your facial contours remain the same. 

Fracture vs. dislocation

Jaw fractures differ from jaw dislocations. A simple dislocation means your jaw has moved out of its normal position. In most cases, its position can be restored manually. 

This isn’t something you should try yourself — you could wind up with more serious problems, including fractures or nerve damage, if you do. If you think your jaw is dislocated, Dr. Kang can restore your jaw position and function, usually following up with a special bandage to keep your jaw in place while it heals.

If you’re having unusual jaw pain or any other jaw symptoms, or if you think you may have broken or dislocated your jaw, don’t delay treatment.  Book an appointment with Dr. Kang immediately, or head to the nearest emergency room.

6 Warning Signs of an Oral Health Disorder

Treating oral health problems in their earliest stages is essential for preventing more serious problems, and that means knowing what signs to look for. In this post, learn six signs that could mean you have an issue that needs prompt treatment.

Dental Anesthesia: Myths to Stop Believing

Dental anesthesia plays a critical role in helping patients stay comfortable through all sorts of procedures, yet its use is steeped in misconceptions. In this post, we dispel some of those myths, so you feel confident in your care.

How to Prepare for Your Tooth Extraction Appointment

Having a tooth pulled can make anyone nervous. Fortunately, tooth extractions today are a lot simpler and more straightforward than you may think. Being prepared ahead of time can help you feel more relaxed. In this post, we offer some helpful tips.

Piezosurgery for an Impacted Canine Tooth: How Does It Work?

Wisdom teeth aren’t the only teeth that get impacted — impaction affects canine teeth too. Here’s how state-of-the-art Piezosurgery® helps reposition canine teeth to avoid pain, maintain your bite balance, and restore your smile.

Why Do I Keep Getting Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are painful, and while they usually don’t happen very often, some people have them regularly. Getting to the root cause of chronic ulcers is the first step in effective treatment. Here’s how we can help.

Sinus Lift Aftercare: What to Expect During Your Recovery

Dental implants offer plenty of benefits, but if your upper jawbone is thin, it might not be strong enough to support the implant posts. Sinus lift surgery helps by augmenting that bone. Here’s what you can expect during your recovery.

classification, signs, symptoms and treatment

Contents

• 1 Jaw fractures: classification, symptoms and treatment
  • 1.1 Jaw fractures: what is it?
  • 1.2 Classification of fractures of the jaws
    • 1.2.1 Fractures of the upper jaw
    • 1.2.2 Fractures of the lower jaw
    • 1.2.3 Cranio-mandibular fracture
  • 1.3 Fracture of the upper jaw: signs and symptoms
  • 1.4 Fracture of the lower jaw: signs and symptoms
  • 1.5 Complications of jaw fractures
  • 1.6 How are jaw fractures diagnosed?
  • 1.7 First aid for fractures of the jaws
    • 1.7.1 Wrapping the head in soft tissue
    • 1.7.2 Administering cold and painkillers
    • 1.7.3 Do not straighten the jaw yourself
  • 1.8 Jaw fractures: medical treatment
    • 1.8 .1 Minor fractures
    • 1. 8.2 Moderate fractures
    • 1.8.3 Serious fractures
    • 1.8.4 Complications and prognosis
  • 1.9 Dental implants for jaw fractures
  • 1.11 Rehabilitation after treatment of jaw fractures
  • 1.12 Related videos :
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What types of jaw fractures are there?
      • 1.13.0.2 How do I know if I have a broken jaw?
      • 1.13.0.3 Can a fracture of the jaw lead to a violation of the roundness of the face?
      • 1.13.0.4 How is a jaw fracture diagnosed?
      • 1.13.0.5 How is a jaw fracture treated?
      • 1.13.0.6 Can prolonged wearing of dentures cause a jaw fracture?

Learn about the classification of mandibular and maxillary fractures, their signs and symptoms, and treatment methods in this article. Let us help you choose the right treatment for your injury!

The jaws are one of the most vital parts of our body. They perform the function of various processes such as chewing, talking and breathing. When a jaw fracture occurs, a person may experience severe pain, disturbances in eating, and even difficulty breathing. The article will consider the classification, signs, symptoms and methods of treatment of jaw fractures.

Jaw fractures vary depending on which part of the jaw is broken. They can be open or closed, and also refer to the upper or lower jaw. Different types of fractures can also be accompanied by different symptoms, which help determine their type and severity.

There are many different treatments for jaw fractures, and they can be prescribed depending on the type and extent of the injury. Treatment may include the use of braces, drugs, and even surgery. It is important to quickly contact a specialist in order to get the correct diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment.

Jaw fractures: what is it?

Fractures of the jaws are injuries to the bones of the face that can occur both in domestic injuries and as a result of emergency situations. Fractures can be open or closed, unilateral or bilateral, their localization may be different.

There are fractures of the upper and lower jaws. The upper jaw consists of two bones that are attached to the facial bone through the articular head and essentially determine the shape of the face. There is only one bone in the lower jaw, which is connected to the skull with the help of joints. As a rule, mandibular fractures occur more often and their symptoms are more pronounced.

• Open fracture – bone fragments protrude freely through the skin and mucous membranes in the oral cavity. Affected tissues can be seriously damaged.
• Closed fracture – the skin and mucous membrane remain intact, but the bones of the face are split.

Despite the different types of fractures, they all lead to severe pain, malocclusion, swelling, hematoma and a sharp limitation of jaw mobility. With severe pain symptoms, fractures of the upper and lower jaws, treatment requires a mandatory visit to a qualified dentist or surgeon.

Classification of jaw fractures

Jaw fractures can be of different nature and location. They are divided into several types depending on which part of the jaw they affect.

Fractures of the upper jaw

Fractures of the upper jaw are open and closed. They may affect one or both upper jaws. They can also be shear and uneven. They usually occur with severe trauma to the face or head.

Fractures of the lower jaw

Fractures of the lower jaw can be open or closed, as well as unilateral or bilateral. They can occur from a blow to the face or from a fall on the jaw. With some types of mandibular fractures, complications in the respiratory or digestive systems can occur.

Cranio-mandibular fracture

A cranio-mandibular fracture occurs when the connection between the skull and jaw is severed. This type of fracture can occur with head or face trauma. It is often accompanied by a concussion and requires prompt medical attention.

1. Open and closed fractures
2. Unilateral and bilateral fractures
3. Shear and irregular fractures

Maxillary fracture: signs and symptoms

A fracture of the upper jaw is a serious injury that can lead to significant complications and loss of teeth. It can result from an accident, a fall, or an attack.

An x-ray is required to diagnose a fracture of the upper jaw. This will help determine the nature of the injury and choose the appropriate treatment.

Treatment of a maxillary fracture may include a cast, surgery using special plates and screws, or other methods, depending on the extent of the injury and its consequences.

It is important to consult a specialist when signs of a fracture of the upper jaw appear in order to diagnose and treat the injury in a timely manner and avoid possible complications and consequences.

Mandibular fracture: signs and symptoms

Mandibular fracture is one of the most common types of fracture that can occur as a result of trauma. This type of fracture usually occurs due to a fall on the chin or a direct blow to the mandible area.

The main symptom of a mandibular fracture is pain shock that occurs at the time of injury. A fracture can occur at different levels of the lower jaw and be accompanied by various symptoms.

• Swelling and severe pain in the region of the lower jaw;
• Chin pressed to chest or inability to lift;
• Inability to close the mouth due to pain and swelling;
• Misalignment of teeth in relation to each other;
• Bleeding from the mouth.

If you suspect a mandibular fracture, you should contact your doctor immediately. He will diagnose and prescribe treatment depending on the severity of the fracture.

Complications of jaw fractures

Jaw fractures can cause various complications depending on their nature and location. One of the most common complications is visual impairment, which can occur as a result of damage to the nerves responsible for vision. In some cases, if the fracture occurs in the orbit, there may be a violation of the mobility of the eyes or even complete loss of vision.

Another common complication is respiratory failure, which can occur with mandibular fractures. This is because the mandible plays an important role in keeping the airways open. If it is violated, there may be a danger of closing the respiratory tract, which requires immediate intervention.

Another complication may be facial asymmetry, which occurs with fractures of the upper and lower jaws. If the fractures are not in the right position, facial symmetry may be disturbed.

• Damage to the salivary glands
• Violation of chewing function
• Infection and edema
• Loss of teeth

as a whole, to prevent complications, it is necessary to consult a doctor in a timely manner and undergo regular examinations to identify possible problems associated with jaw fractures.

How are jaw fractures diagnosed?

Jaw fractures can be diagnosed based on characteristic symptoms and examination of the patient.

X-ray and computed tomography studies may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. They allow you to see the fracture site and determine its characteristics.

In some cases, additional diagnostic methods may be used. For example, magnetic resonance imaging can provide a more accurate picture of the condition of the soft tissues at the fracture site.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of jaw fractures should be carried out with the help of qualified specialists, and no signs should be ignored.

First Aid for Jaw Fractures

Soft Tissue Head Wraps

If a jaw fracture is suspected, soft tissue should be wrapped around the victim’s head to prevent additional tissue damage. It is recommended to use gauze or a scarf.

Cold and pain relief

For severe pain, cold can be applied to the injury by wrapping a piece of ice in a soft cloth. You can also give the victim an analgesic to reduce pain. No drugs should be given if the victim is unwell or unconscious.

Do not align the jaw yourself

Do not try to align the jaw bones yourself, this may only aggravate the damage. It is necessary to call an ambulance and wait for the arrival of doctors who will carry out further treatment.

Jaw fractures: medication

Minor fractures

For minor jaw fractures, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are given to relieve pain and reduce swelling. In addition, calcium and vitamin D supplements are prescribed to speed up bone healing.

Moderate fractures

Fractures that can lead to malocclusion and herniation may require more serious treatment. In this case, orthodontic appliances are prescribed, which allow you to properly align your teeth and restore a normal bite. Calcium and vitamin D supplements will also be helpful in speeding up bone healing.

Serious fractures

Serious fractures that can cause chewing and speech problems require surgery. This may require the use of fixation devices such as splints and metal plates to keep the bones in the ideal position during the healing period. In addition, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antibiotic drugs may be prescribed to control the infection.

Complications and prognosis

In most cases, jaw fractures are successfully treated, although it must be taken into account that a long period of rehabilitation and care may be required. Complications can occur if the fracture is not treated promptly, or if an infection occurs during healing. Therefore, it is very important to seek medical help at the first sign of a fracture and follow the recommendations of specialists.

Dental implants for fractured jaws

Dental implants are a way to replace lost teeth by inserting an artificial root system into the jaw bone. They are used not only in cases of loss of a single tooth, but also in case of fractures of the jaws.

The use of dental implants, as well as the choice of their time and place, depends on the specific jaw fracture and the condition of the dental arch. An operation to install implants is prescribed after complete healing of the fractures and determining the optimal point for their installation.

Surgical treatment of jaw fractures: principles and methods

Surgical treatment of jaw fractures is a set of measures aimed at restoring the function of the jaws and their appearance. It is carried out in cases where conservative therapy has proved ineffective or when fractures are accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the skin and oral mucosa.

The main principles of surgical treatment of jaw fractures include accurate identification of the fracture site, adequate fixation of bone fragments and creation of conditions for their rapid healing. Also, the most important factor in the process of surgical correction is the preservation of vital structures, such as nerve fibers and blood vessels.

Various methods are used for the surgical treatment of jaw fractures, depending on the location and nature of the injury. One of the most common methods is osteosynthesis with plates and screws, as well as bone fracture. In some cases, a bone graft may be required.

It is important to note that after surgical treatment, a rehabilitation program is needed to restore jaw function and prevent possible complications. It includes appropriate exercise and diet, as well as supervision by specialists.

Rehabilitation after treatment of jaw fractures

After the treatment of jaw fractures, the rehabilitation stage is no less important. It is aimed at restoring the functions of the jaws and reducing the risk of consequences.

Rehabilitation exercises after the treatment of fractures of the jaw will help restore the elasticity of muscles and ligaments, as well as improve blood circulation in the damaged area. A specialist can recommend a set of exercises that takes into account the characteristics of each case.

Nutrition also plays an important role in rehabilitation. It is necessary to eat food in a soft state, and also avoid hard foods that can damage fresh bones.

Regular visits to specialists after treatment of jaw fractures are also an integral part of rehabilitation. Consideration of follow-up by doctors, dentists, and podiatrists can help prevent complications and return to a normal lifestyle more quickly.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What types of jaw fractures are there?

Fractures of the jaws are divided into open and closed, unilateral and bilateral, as well as fractures of the upper jaw, lower jaw and their combinations according to the location.

How do I know if I have a broken jaw?

The main symptoms of a jaw fracture are pain when opening and closing the mouth, jaw deviation to the side, swelling and bruising on the face, difficulty speaking and chewing food.

Can a fracture of the jaw lead to a violation of the roundness of the face?

Yes, a fracture of the jaw can lead to a violation of the roundness of the face, especially if there is a displaced fragmentation and anatomical integrity of the bones is compromised.

How is a jaw fracture diagnosed?

An x-ray is used to diagnose a jaw fracture. Sometimes a CT scan may be needed to determine the location and nature of the fracture.

How is a jaw fracture treated?

The treatment of a jaw fracture depends on its nature and location, but in most cases includes fixation of the bones with the help of special devices, the use of painkillers, anti-inflammatory and antibiotics, as well as dietary nutrition.

Can prolonged wearing of dentures cause a jaw fracture?

Prolonged wearing of ill-fitting dentures can cause jaw fractures as they may not load the bone properly and cause deformity. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly check and adjust dentures.

Fracture of the lower jaw

The author of the article is a veterinarian, Ph.D. Kuleshova O.A.

Fracture of the bones of the lower jaw

Fractures of the bones of the lower jaw are found in both dogs and cats. These fractures can be traumatic or pathological. Traumatic fractures of the lower jaw are noted against the background of trauma (strike, autotrauma). Pathological fractures often occur against the background of periodontitis and severe tartar deposition, when inflammation from the teeth passes to the bones of the lower jaw. This inflammation causes a decrease in the density of the bones of the lower jaw, which makes them fragile, due to which fractures occur. Very often, such fractures are observed in dwarf dog breeds that occur spontaneously when eating food, when playing with another animal, and also during planned oral cavity sanitation (especially when pathological teeth are removed). That is why such animals, before the sanitation of the oral cavity in our center, must undergo an X-ray of the bones of the lower jaw to assess their bone structure. The fracture can occur both on one side (fracture of one branch of the lower jaw), and be bilateral, affecting two branches of the lower jaw at once.

The main clinical signs of these fractures are pain, swelling of soft tissues in the lower jaw, salivation, refusal of the animal to feed. If the animal has a fracture of one branch of the lower jaw, then the intake of soft food can be saved.

The main and, perhaps, the only method of treating these fractures is surgical treatment. With these fractures, bone osteosynthesis is performed with special reconstructive plates of a certain size in accordance with the size of the patient. The purpose of the operation is to restore the integrity of the bones of the lower jaw, which allows the animal to independently take food of any consistency. Such operations restore the SOCIALITY of the patient.

A. Bilateral fracture of the bones of the lower jaw (fracture sites are shown by arrows) against the background of periodontal disease.

B. Bony osteosynthesis of the lower jaw bones with special reconstructive plates.

External osteosynthesis (intraoperative view).

This operation takes 40-50 minutes. Combined anesthesia (gas anesthesia and regional anesthesia). Such anesthesia is the choice of anesthetists for older patients who may have a history of heart, kidney, and liver problems. The recovery period is very comfortable. The animal must be given antibiotics and painkillers for 7 days, keeping the animal in a special collar until the sutures are completely healed. Removal of stitches occurs on the 12-14th day. Most animals feed on their own the next day after surgery. But some animals need help in taking food in the immediate postoperative period (3-7 days). Owners of such animals are recommended to feed their pets with a special soft-consistency feed with a syringe.

Prevention of mandibular fractures.