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Jaw Fractured

Jaw Fractured

Description Of The Injury: The lower jaw is connected to the skull via the temporomandibular joints. When a dislocation occurs, the jaw has been displaced from the joints. A broken jaw will usually have two breaks, one at the area of the impact and another break on the opposite side of the jaw. Dislocation or break of the jaw mostly occurs in contact sports, and motor vehicle accidents.

Injury Symptoms: A common symptom of a fractured or dislocated jaw will be the difficulty of performing normal jaw functions such as speaking, clenching, opening the mouth, and chewing foods. The pain may be local or a general aching that might be located in the front of the ear. It may also be painful and difficult to close the mouth, and excess drooling may occur.

Additional Information

Home Treatments:

A broken or dislocated jaw will require professional treatment but the initial treatment involves standard first aid principles. Do not attempt to perform regular tasks with the jaw, and if possible hold the jaw steady with your hand. You may also bandage the jaw together to the head by wrapping the bandage over the head and under the jaw. This will immobilize the jaw until professional treatment is acquired. If there is visible swelling, apply an ice pack to the area.

Professional Medical Treatments:

A dislocated jaw will require realignment. This may be done with anesthesia and, in some cases, may require the input of fastening joints via surgery. A broken jaw may require surgery that will involve nuts, screws or wiring. If the injury is severe enough, a breathing tube may be initially required to maintain immediate survival. Afterwards, the jaw usually requires immobilization for 4-6 weeks. Play online games on the friv games site with the whole family. Only the best online games are presented on this mega portal.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

Physical therapy of a broken jaw should only be started with the consent of your doctor and will only occur after the jaw is unwired. Recovery of jaw function consists of regaining the range of motion. This includes gradually increasing the degree of opening and closing your mouth and being able to move the lower jaw side to side. Progressing from soft foods to hard foods slowly will allow the complete recovery of normal jaw strength.

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

No known specific exercise techniques to prevent a dislocated or fractured jaw. When possible, use protective headgear when playing a contact sport and prevent yourself from being exposed to situations where a blunt injury may occur to your jaw.