A dislocated jaw (mandibular dislocation) occurs when the lower jawbone (mandible) moves out of its normal position from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ connects the jaw to the base of the skull, acting as a hinge that allows movement. This displacement is a painful injury requiring immediate professional medical attention.
How a Dislocated Jaw Affects Communication
A dislocated jaw severely compromises or makes speech nearly impossible because the physical mechanics of articulation are disrupted. Speech requires precise coordination and movement of the mandible to shape sounds and form words. When the jaw is displaced, it often locks in an open position, preventing the necessary movement to close the mouth and manipulate the tongue effectively.
The fixed, open position results in noticeably slurred or garbled speech that is difficult to understand. Loss of control over the lower jaw also impacts functions like swallowing. Patients frequently experience excessive drooling because they cannot fully close their lips to contain saliva. Proper jaw alignment is necessary for clear enunciation, which is impossible with a dislocation.
Key Indicators of Jaw Dislocation
Intense, localized pain is felt near the ear, where the TMJ is located. The jaw will have a visibly misaligned appearance, potentially shifted forward or to one side, leading to facial asymmetry. This displacement makes it impossible to close the mouth completely, leaving it locked open.
The patient feels the jaw is out of place and unable to move properly. In unilateral dislocations, the jaw deviates toward the side opposite the injury. Furthermore, the teeth will not line up correctly, creating an abnormal bite alignment.
First Aid While Seeking Treatment
While waiting for emergency medical help, focus on stabilizing the jaw and managing discomfort. Gently support the lower jaw with your hand or use a loose bandage or scarf wrapped over the chin and tied over the head. This provides minor support and helps prevent unnecessary movement.
To help control swelling and dull the pain, a cold compress or an ice pack should be applied externally to the jaw area. Apply the ice pack for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. It is important that no one, including the patient, attempts to push or force the jaw back into its socket. This amateur attempt at self-reduction can cause further damage to the surrounding muscles, nerves, or blood vessels.
Professional Treatment and Recovery
Once the patient reaches a hospital or emergency department, the medical procedure to correct the dislocation is called manual reduction. This involves a healthcare provider gently manipulating the jawbone back into its correct anatomical position within the TMJ. The patient is often given local anesthesia or a muscle relaxant and sedation to ease the pain and relax the jaw muscles before the manipulation is performed.
Following the reduction, the jaw needs time to heal and stabilize the stretched ligaments. The provider may recommend wearing a supportive bandage to limit jaw movement for a period. Recovery instructions include eating only soft foods and avoiding activities that require opening the mouth widely, such as yelling or excessive yawning, for several weeks to prevent recurrence.