A dislocated jaw occurs when the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the lower jaw to the skull, moves out of its normal position. This joint acts like a sliding hinge, allowing for the wide range of motions involved in speaking and chewing. When dislocated, the jaw cannot function as it should and requires prompt attention to restore proper function.
What a Dislocated Jaw Means
A dislocated jaw means the lower jawbone (mandible) separates from its typical place within the temporomandibular joint. The condyle, a rounded projection of the mandible, displaces from the temporal bone’s glenoid fossa, preventing the jaw from closing properly.
Common symptoms include pain in the jaw or face, an inability to close the mouth, a noticeably lopsided jaw, or an abnormal bite. Difficulty speaking, chewing, and excessive drooling may also occur. Dislocation can result from wide yawning, forceful laughing, large bites of food, facial trauma, or prolonged mouth opening during dental procedures.
Why Self-Correction is Unlikely
A dislocated jaw cannot fix itself due to the anatomical response of surrounding muscles. Once the condyle displaces from its socket, jaw muscles often go into spasm. This involuntary contraction locks the jaw out of alignment, making it impossible for the condyle to return to its proper position without external intervention.
Attempting to self-reduce a dislocated jaw carries significant risks. It can intensify pain and cause further damage to joint structures, ligaments, and surrounding tissues. Delaying professional treatment can result in complications such as increased jaw instability, nerve damage, persistent pain, and long-term difficulty with eating or speaking.
Seeking Professional Care
Immediate professional medical attention is important for a dislocated jaw. A healthcare professional (doctor, dentist, or emergency medical personnel) will diagnose the condition through a physical examination and may use X-rays to confirm the dislocation.
The most common treatment is manual reduction, where the provider guides the jawbone back into its correct position. This procedure involves placing thumbs on the lower back teeth and fingers under the chin, then applying downward pressure while manipulating the jaw back into place. Local anesthesia or muscle relaxants may be administered to alleviate pain and relax the jaw muscles, ensuring accurate resetting and preventing further injury.
Immediate Steps and Recovery
If a jaw dislocation occurs, remain calm and avoid attempting to force the jaw back into place. Instead, keep the jaw as still as possible and apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain. Seek prompt medical help.
Following manual reduction, recovery focuses on preventing re-dislocation and managing discomfort. Limiting jaw movement by avoiding wide opening for at least six weeks is advised, and a bandage may be applied to stabilize the jaw. Eating soft foods is recommended to minimize jaw strain during healing. Pain can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers. For individuals prone to dislocations, supporting the jaw with a hand when yawning or sneezing can help prevent recurrence.