What Does a Dislocated Jaw Look Like?
A dislocated jaw, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, occurs when the lower jawbone, or mandible, moves out of its normal position within the temporomandibular joint. This joint acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your lower jaw to the skull in front of each ear. When a dislocation happens, the mandibular condyle, the rounded end of the lower jawbone, shifts beyond its usual boundary in the glenoid fossa, the socket where it typically rests. This displacement prevents the jaw from functioning as it should.
Identifying a Dislocated Jaw
A dislocated jaw often presents with distinct visual cues. The mouth typically remains stuck open, and the individual cannot close it completely. This open-mouthed appearance might be accompanied by a noticeable misalignment of the teeth, or the chin could point slightly to one side, especially if the dislocation is unilateral. Swelling or bruising around the jaw joint, specifically in front of the ear, may also appear.
Beyond visual signs, a person with a dislocated jaw experiences immediate physical sensations. Significant pain often localizes in front of the ear on the affected side, worsening with any attempt to move the jaw. Due to the inability to close the mouth, drooling can occur, and speaking or swallowing becomes very difficult. There is a strong feeling that the jaw is “locked” or “stuck” in its open position, which can be quite distressing. These symptoms typically have a sudden onset.
Common Causes of Jaw Dislocation
Jaw dislocations often result from wide mouth openings. Common scenarios include an excessive yawn, forceful laughter, or taking a very large bite of food. In these instances, the mandibular condyle can move too far forward and get trapped in front of a bony prominence called the articular eminence. This anterior type of dislocation is the most common.
Traumatic incidents can also lead to a dislocated jaw. Impacts to the jaw or face, such as those sustained from falls, sports injuries, or accidents, can force the jaw out of its socket. Certain medical or dental procedures, where the mouth is held open for extended periods (e.g., prolonged dental treatment or intubation), can also cause dislocation. While less common, underlying conditions such as hypermobility syndromes or a history of previous dislocations can increase an individual’s susceptibility due to increased ligament laxity around the joint.
Immediate Actions and When to Seek Help
Do not attempt to force the jaw back into place yourself. Such attempts can cause additional damage and complicate professional reduction.
For immediate comfort, apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain. Keep the jaw as still as possible, avoiding movements that intensify discomfort. However, these are only temporary measures.
A dislocated jaw requires immediate professional medical attention. A healthcare provider (e.g., emergency room doctor, oral surgeon, or dentist) has the expertise to safely reposition the jaw. Diagnosis is typically visual, though an X-ray might be used to rule out fractures or confirm the dislocation’s position. Pain management, often involving local anesthetics or sedatives, is usually administered before manual reduction.
During reduction, the healthcare professional will gently manipulate the jaw to guide the condyle back into its socket. Following reduction, adhere to medical advice, which may include a soft diet, jaw rest, and avoiding wide mouth openings. This post-reduction care helps stabilize the joint and reduces recurrence.