Jaw Fractures

What is a Jaw Fracture?

It is actually a fractured mandible bone or injury to the jawbone. It is a type of fracture that is frequently seen in the face area. It is one of the most common fractures. 

The mandible is U-shaped and is the largest bone in the lower part of the face. The mandible is divided into two parts: the body (outward extension) and the ramus (two extents that run upwards). The jawbone is bilaterally connected to the skull by the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) located in front of the ears on both sides of the head. Ligaments hold the bone statically and muscles allow the jaw to open and close. If the jawbone is not in its natural position in one or both TMJs, this condition is called dislocation.

How is Jaw Fracture Treated?

Jaw fracture surgery is performed under general anesthesia. First of all, an incision is made and the fractured area is opened. The surgeon repositions the broken bones with the help of metal plates and screws. Metal wires can be placed around the teeth, if necessary. This is so the elastic bands used can hold on and then the patient can bite correctly.

Screws placed on the jawbone may also be preferred instead of metal wires. Elastic bands are usually removed after the surgery. This allows the patient to move her/his jaw easily and return to her/his daily life quickly. In some cases, it may also be necessary to remove decayed or damaged teeth. In difficult cases, the incision can be made outside the mouth. The surgeon wants a medical consultation in such cases.

Jaw Fracture Surgery: Recovery 

After jaw fracture surgery, it is possible to experience some pain and tenderness, depending on the scope and difficulty of the operation. This discomfort may disappear within a few days. Precautions are taken by the surgeon against the possibility of infection and antibiotics can be given accordingly. The patient usually spends the first day in the hospital kept under observation. An X-ray is taken for examination the next day.

Even if the metal plates and screws adapt, it may take 1 and a half months for the jaw to fully heal. In this process, it is important for the patient to avoid consuming hard foods and pay attention to oral hygiene. Mouthwash while cleaning teeth is beneficial to avoid touching the sutures.