Jaw dislocation or fracture
Jaw dislocation is a displacement of the temporomandibular joint. Jaw fracture is a break in one or both of the two maxillae (upper jawbones) or the mandible (lower jawbone). Treatment can usually restore jaw alignment and function.
Causes
Simple fractures or dislocations are usually caused by a manual blow along the jawline; more serious compound fractures, from car accidents and penetration injuries.
Signs and symptoms
Malocclusion is the most obvious sign of dislocation or fracture. Other signs and symptoms include mandibular pain, swelling, ecchymosis, loss of function, and asymmetry. In addition, mandibular fractures that damage the alveolar nerve produce paresthesia or anesthesia of the chin and lower lip. Maxillary fractures produce infraorbital paresthesia and commonly accompany fractures of the nasal and orbital complex.
