A broken jaw involves a break in the jawbone. This injury can occur in either the upper jaw (maxilla) or the lower jaw (mandible), with the lower jaw being the more commonly fractured facial bone after the nose. Prompt identification and treatment are necessary, as a broken jaw can lead to complications such as difficulty eating, speaking, or breathing, and long-term issues.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Pain is an indicator of a broken jaw, worsening with jaw movement, such as chewing or talking. This pain localizes to the face or jaw, frequently in front of the ear or on the injured side. Swelling and bruising develop around the jaw and face, sometimes appearing immediately after the injury or gradually over hours or days.
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth is a symptom, as the fracture can restrict jaw movement. Patients may also experience a sensation that their teeth do not fit together correctly (malocclusion) due to bone displacement. Bleeding from the mouth or gums can occur, signaling that the bone may have broken through the gum tissue.
Numbness or tingling in the face, especially the lower lip or chin, can indicate nerve damage from the fracture. Loose or damaged teeth, particularly those near the fracture site, are also possible. A visible lump or an abnormal appearance of the cheek or jaw may be present, along with a shifting of the lower jaw when attempting to open the mouth.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Immediate medical attention is necessary if a broken jaw is suspected, as complications like airway blockage or heavy bleeding can occur. Any severe pain, inability to move the jaw, significant bleeding from the mouth, or visible deformity of the jaw or face warrants urgent medical evaluation.
While waiting for medical help, gently hold the jaw in place with your hands to provide support. A bandage can be wrapped under the jaw and over the top of the head to help stabilize it, but ensure it can be easily removed in case of vomiting. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the jaw for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, every one to two hours, can help reduce swelling and pain.
How a Broken Jaw is Diagnosed
A medical professional will conduct a physical examination to assess a suspected broken jaw. This involves checking for swelling, bruising, deformity, and tenderness, including around the ear canal. The doctor will also evaluate the patient’s ability to open their mouth and check for any loose teeth or bleeding.
Imaging tests are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the fracture’s severity. X-rays are an initial imaging method, providing views to detect fractures and assess displacement. Panoramic X-rays, which image the entire mandible, are particularly informative and more sensitive for detecting mandibular fractures compared to other X-ray views.
For more detailed imaging, especially in cases of complex fractures or suspected soft tissue damage, a computed tomography (CT) scan is the preferred choice. CT scans offer higher sensitivity in detecting fractures and provide detailed images that help in understanding the fracture pattern and planning treatment. While self-assessment can indicate a potential issue, professional medical confirmation through these diagnostic methods is necessary for proper treatment.