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Jaw Injuries and Disorders
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Mouth Teeth

Jaw Injuries and Disorders

Your jaw is a complex structure that supports chewing and facial expression, and it can suffer a range of injuries and disorders from fractures to tumors.

Overview

The jaw is a set of bones that holds your teeth. It includes the maxilla, the upper part that holds your top teeth and supports chewing muscles; the mandible, the lower part that moves when you talk or chew and holds your lower teeth; and the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), two joints that connect the mandible to the skull.

Jaw Problems

Jaw problems can include:

  • Fractures (broken bones).
  • Dislocations, which are joint injuries that force the ends of your bones out of position.
  • Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which are conditions that affect your TMJs.
  • Osteonecrosis, which happens when the blood flow to part of your bone is disrupted and can cause the bone to break down.
  • Jaw tumors, which can be benign (not cancer) or cancer.
  • Jaw defects, which are birth defects in which your jaw could be missing or deformed.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic imaging tests are often used to diagnose jaw injuries and disorders.

Treatment & Management

Your treatment will depend on which jaw problem you have.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should a jaw injury be considered an emergency requiring immediate medical attention?::You should seek immediate medical attention for a jaw injury if you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing or swallowing, inability to close your mouth, significant bleeding, visible deformity of the jaw, or if you suspect a fracture or dislocation. These situations could indicate a serious injury requiring urgent intervention.
What are the common symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), and how can I manage them at home?::Common TMD symptoms include pain or tenderness in your jaw, aching pain in and around your ear, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth, and jaw locking. Home management often involves eating soft foods, applying ice or moist heat, avoiding extreme jaw movements, and practicing stress-reduction techniques. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help.
What is the typical recovery time for a broken jaw, and what does the recovery process usually involve?::Recovery from a broken jaw can vary widely depending on the severity and type of fracture, but typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. The process often involves immobilizing the jaw, sometimes by wiring it shut, to allow the bones to heal. During this time, you'll likely be on a liquid or soft food diet and may need pain medication. Physical therapy may be recommended after the initial healing period to restore full jaw function.
re there specific exercises or lifestyle changes that can help prevent jaw problems, especially TMDs?::To help prevent jaw problems, especially TMDs, avoid clenching or grinding your teeth, especially when stressed. Practice good posture, as poor posture can strain jaw muscles. Avoid chewing gum excessively or eating very hard or chewy foods. Gentle jaw stretching exercises and stress management techniques can also be beneficial. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard from your dentist can protect your jaw.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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