Dislocated Jaw |
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DESCRIPTION
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When the jawbone becomes unseated at one or both joints, you have a dislocated jaw. The condition is known medically as a dislocated mandible.
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CAUSES
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The problem is usually the result of impact on the jaw. Dislocation can also occur if you open your mouth too wide while yawning, yelling, or biting large pieces of food.
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SYMPTOMS
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Soon after the dislocation, the jaw muscles tighten, keeping the mouth from closing normally. You'll have difficulty moving the jaw; and swelling, pain, and redness will develop.
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CARE
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Injection of a numbing medication near the joint and the jaw muscles often allows the jawbone to pop back into place on its own. If this doesn't work, however, the doctor may need to manually reseat the bone in the joint.
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