“Resetting your jaw” refers to the medical procedure of manually repositioning a dislocated or subluxated temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This occurs when the lower jaw moves out of its normal anatomical position, causing discomfort and impairing function, making speaking, eating, and closing the mouth difficult.
Understanding Jaw Dislocation
A jaw dislocation occurs when the condyle of the mandible moves out of its normal articulation within the glenoid fossa of the temporal bone. This displacement can be unilateral or bilateral, affecting one or both sides of the jaw. The jaw becomes “locked” in an open position, preventing the mouth from closing.
Common causes include wide mouth opening, such as a forceful yawn, a large bite of food, or extensive dental procedures. Direct trauma to the jaw, like a blow to the face, can also lead to dislocation. Certain medical conditions, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or seizure disorders, can predispose individuals to recurrent dislocations due to ligamentous laxity or sudden muscle contractions.
Individuals experiencing a jaw dislocation present with immediate, severe pain in the jaw joint area. A prominent symptom is the inability to close the mouth, with the jaw appearing visibly misaligned or protruded forward. Swelling may develop around the joint, and speaking or swallowing becomes difficult due to the fixed open position of the mouth.
When to Seek Professional Help
Seeking immediate professional medical attention is important when experiencing a jaw dislocation. Attempting to “reset” a dislocated jaw yourself can be dangerous and may lead to further injury, potentially damaging the joint structures, nerves, or surrounding soft tissues. This is especially true if it is a first-time dislocation, if the dislocation resulted from trauma, or if it is accompanied by severe pain, significant swelling, or bleeding.
Clear indicators for immediate professional care include persistent severe pain, complete inability to move the jaw, or a history of trauma to the face or head. Recurrent dislocations that are difficult to reduce without assistance also warrant prompt medical evaluation. These signs suggest that the underlying cause may be more complex or that the joint structures have been significantly compromised, requiring expert assessment.
Professional help is necessary because the temporomandibular joint is a complex structure involving bone, ligament, and muscle anatomy. Improper manipulation by an untrained individual can exacerbate the injury, potentially causing fractures, nerve damage, or chronic joint instability. Healthcare professionals possess the anatomical knowledge and specific techniques required to safely and effectively reposition the jaw, minimizing the risk of complications.
Professional Jaw Repositioning Techniques
When a dislocated jaw requires repositioning, medical professionals perform a manual reduction procedure. This involves specific techniques to guide the condyle of the mandible back into its correct anatomical position within the glenoid fossa. The most common approach, often referred to as the Hippocratic method, involves applying downward and backward pressure on the molars while simultaneously lifting the chin.
During this procedure, the healthcare provider stands in front of the patient and places their thumbs on the lower molars, wrapping their fingers around the jawline. They then exert firm, steady downward pressure to disengage the condyle from its locked position anterior to the articular eminence, followed by a posterior and superior movement to guide it back into the fossa. This maneuver helps to overcome muscle spasm and facilitate the return of the joint.
To ease the process and reduce patient discomfort, sedatives or muscle relaxants may be administered, especially if muscle spasms are present or if the patient is in pain. These medications help to relax the jaw muscles, making the reduction procedure smoother and less traumatic. The types of healthcare providers who commonly perform these procedures include emergency room physicians, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and sometimes general dentists.
Preventing Future Jaw Issues
Once a dislocated jaw has been successfully repositioned, preventing future occurrences becomes a primary concern. Individuals can adopt several practical strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence. One important measure is to avoid excessive wide mouth opening, which can strain the temporomandibular joint and predispose it to dislocation.
This includes being mindful during activities like yawning, where one might try to support the chin to limit how wide the mouth opens, or when taking large bites of food. Stress management techniques can also be beneficial, as stress often leads to jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which can contribute to muscle tension and joint instability. Practicing relaxation exercises or seeking professional guidance for stress reduction may help.
Adhering to a soft diet temporarily after a dislocation can allow the jaw muscles and joint structures to heal and stabilize. In cases of recurrent dislocations or persistent jaw issues, a healthcare professional might recommend custom dental splints or mouthguards. These devices can help stabilize the jaw, prevent excessive movement, and protect the joint during sleep or periods of stress. Physical therapy exercises focused on strengthening the jaw muscles and improving joint stability may also be prescribed to enhance long-term prevention.