Dislocated Jaw: Treatment, Recovery, and Prevention

How do you treat a dislocated jaw bone?

Treating a dislocated jaw bone primarily involves immediate medical attention for manual reduction by a healthcare professional, followed by a period of rest, immobilization, and careful management to prevent recurrence.

Understanding Jaw Dislocation

A dislocated jaw, medically known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, occurs when the condyle (the rounded end of the lower jaw bone, or mandible) moves out of its normal position within the glenoid fossa (a socket in the temporal bone of the skull). This displacement can be unilateral (one side) or bilateral (both sides).

• The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ): This complex joint acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. It's one of the most frequently used joints in the body, essential for talking, chewing, and yawning.
• What Happens During Dislocation: When the jaw dislocates, the condyle typically moves forward and upward, becoming "locked" in front of the articular eminence, preventing the mouth from closing. This is often accompanied by significant pain and an inability to close the mouth properly.
• Common Causes: While a direct blow to the jaw can cause dislocation, it's more frequently the result of excessive mouth opening, such as during a wide yawn, a dental procedure, laughing forcefully, or vomiting. Individuals with hypermobility or pre-existing TMJ disorders may be more prone to dislocation.

Immediate Steps and Emergency Care

A dislocated jaw is a medical emergency that requires prompt professional intervention. Under no circumstances should you attempt to self-reduce a dislocated jaw. Improper attempts can cause further damage to the joint, surrounding tissues, or nerves.

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: If you suspect a jaw dislocation, go to an emergency room or an urgent care clinic without delay. Time is critical, as muscle spasms can worsen over time, making reduction more difficult.
• First Aid While Waiting:
  • Support the Jaw: Gently support the jaw with your hands to minimize movement and discomfort. Avoid trying to force the jaw closed.
  • Apply Ice: If possible, apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain.
  • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help manage discomfort while awaiting medical care, but they are not a substitute for professional treatment.

Medical Treatment: Reduction Techniques

The primary treatment for an acute jaw dislocation is manual reduction, performed by a trained healthcare professional (e.g., emergency physician, oral and maxillofacial surgeon).

• Manual Reduction: This is the most common and effective method.
  • Preparation: Before attempting reduction, the medical team will often administer medication to help relax the jaw muscles and reduce pain. This may include sedatives, muscle relaxants, and local anesthetic injections into the joint area.
  • Technique (General Overview): The physician will stand in front of the patient and grasp the lower jaw. They will typically apply firm, downward pressure on the molars (back teeth) while simultaneously moving the jaw backward and slightly upward. This maneuver helps to release the condyle from its locked position and guide it back into the glenoid fossa. A distinct "clunk" may be heard or felt as the jaw pops back into place.
• Closed vs. Open Reduction:
  • Closed Reduction: This refers to the manual manipulation described above, performed without surgical incision. It is the preferred method for most acute dislocations.
  • Open Reduction: In rare cases, such as chronic, recurrent dislocations, or when other structures (like a fractured bone) are involved, surgical intervention (open reduction) may be necessary to realign the joint or address underlying issues.

Post-Reduction Care and Recovery

After the jaw has been successfully reduced, proper post-reduction care is crucial to promote healing and prevent re-dislocation.

• Rest and Immobilization:
  • Soft Diet: For several days to weeks, stick to a soft or liquid diet to minimize jaw movement and stress on the joint. Avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods.
  • Avoid Wide Opening: Consciously avoid opening your mouth wide for yawning, laughing, or chewing. You may be advised to gently support your jaw during these actions.
  • Jaw Support: In some cases, a bandage or jaw support (like a Barton bandage) may be applied for a short period to help keep the jaw immobilized and prevent re-dislocation, especially immediately after reduction.
• Pain and Inflammation Management: Continue with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications as needed. Applying ice packs periodically can also help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Activity Restrictions: Limit strenuous activities that might jar the head or jaw. Avoid contact sports or activities with a high risk of facial trauma until cleared by your doctor.
• When to Seek Further Help: If you experience persistent pain, swelling, difficulty moving your jaw, or if the jaw re-dislocates, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Preventing Recurrence

Preventing future dislocations is a key aspect of long-term management, especially for individuals with recurrent dislocations.

• Lifestyle Modifications:
  • Controlled Yawning: When yawning, place a fist under your chin to prevent your mouth from opening too wide.
  • Careful Eating: Cut food into small pieces to avoid wide jaw movements.
  • Avoid Jaw Habits: Refrain from habits like gum chewing, nail biting, or clenching/grinding teeth, which can stress the TMJ.
• Jaw Exercises (After Physician Approval): Once the initial pain and swelling subside, your doctor or a physical therapist may recommend gentle jaw exercises to restore normal range of motion and strengthen the surrounding muscles. These should only be performed under professional guidance to avoid re-injury.
• Mouthguards/Splints: For individuals with chronic nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding) or recurrent dislocations, a custom-fitted occlusal splint or mouthguard worn at night can help stabilize the jaw and prevent excessive movement.
• Addressing Underlying Issues: If hypermobility or a pre-existing TMJ disorder contributes to dislocations, your doctor may recommend specific treatments for these conditions, which could include physical therapy, medication, or in rare cases, surgical intervention.

When is Surgery Necessary?

While most jaw dislocations are treated non-surgically, surgery may be considered in specific, rare circumstances:

• Chronic Recurrence: For individuals who experience frequent, debilitating jaw dislocations despite conservative management and lifestyle modifications.
• Associated Fractures: If the dislocation is accompanied by a fracture of the jaw bone or other facial bones, surgical repair may be necessary.
• Irreducible Dislocation: In very rare cases where manual reduction is unsuccessful, open surgery may be required to reposition the jaw.

Understanding the proper treatment and follow-up care for a dislocated jaw is crucial for a successful recovery and to minimize the risk of future episodes. Always prioritize immediate medical attention for this condition.