Jaw fracture

Jaw Fracture

A jaw fracture is a common type of facial fracture that involves a break in the mandible (lower jaw) or the maxilla (upper jaw). It can result from various forms of trauma, including motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, falls, and assaults.

Causes

The most common cause of a jaw fracture is trauma to the face. This can occur in a variety of situations, such as a motor vehicle accident, a fall, a sports injury, or an assault. Other less common causes include pathological fractures due to bone disease or cancer, and stress fractures due to excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth (bruxism).

Symptoms

Symptoms of a jaw fracture can vary depending on the severity and location of the fracture. Common symptoms include pain in the jaw, difficulty opening the mouth, swelling and bruising in the face, numbness in the lower lip or chin, and malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a jaw fracture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. The doctor may palpate the jaw to check for areas of tenderness, swelling, or deformity. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the fracture.

Treatment

Treatment for a jaw fracture depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Minor fractures may be treated with pain medication, a soft diet, and instructions to avoid activities that could further injure the jaw. More severe fractures may require surgery to realign and stabilize the broken bones. This may involve the use of plates, screws, or wires. After surgery, the patient may need to follow a restricted diet and take antibiotics to prevent infection.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, most people with a jaw fracture can expect to make a full recovery. However, complications can occur, including infection, nerve damage, and problems with jaw function or appearance.

See also

• Facial trauma
• Maxillofacial surgery
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery