A broken jaw is also known as a mandible fracture is a commonly known facial injury. Fractures in the jaw are as a result of blunt force or trauma being exerted on the jaw bone. Sometimes the jaw is only dislocated and not broken. So you have to be able to make a distinction between the two sets of conditions. To determine whether you have a fractured jaw, the doctor will need to take an X-ray examination to determine the extent and the location of the fracture. For dental emergency such as the broken jaw, visit the team of Brisbane clinic. This team offers emergency dental care in Brisbane
Different Classes of Jaw Bone Fractures
Before we look at broken jaw recovery time, let us have a look at the different classifications of jaw bone fractures.
– Closed (Simple) fracture. In this classification of fracture, there is no break in the periodontal membrane, mucosa membrane or the skin as a result of the jaw fracture.
– Compound (Open) jaw fracture. In this case, the jaw is exposed.
– Comminuted jaw fracture. This is a type of fracture whereby there are crushed bones or bone splinters in the jawbone region.
– Greenstick jawbone fracture. In this type of fracture, one section of the jawbone is broken while the other section is bent.
– Pathologic classification of a broken jaw is as a result of preexisting bone disease.
– Multiple jaw bone fracture means two or more fractures exist in the affected jawbone.
– Impacted jawbone fracture is a type of fracture whereby one section of the jawbone is driven onto another section by force or direct impact.
– Atrophic jaw bone fracture results from bone atrophy.
– A complex jaw bone injury is one that impacts on tissue and also causes structural injury.
Broken Jaw Recovery Time and Care
When you visit your doctor with a broken jaw, you need to discuss the available treatment options. Sometimes the doctor may wire the upper and lower jaw to facilitate quick recovery. The duration of this treatment may last up to 6 weeks. During this time you may have to feed through liquids via a straw. In other instances, surgery is necessary to treat your broken jaw bone. After the treatment, follow-up care is crucial to ensure safety and quick recovery. You must make follow up appointments with your doctor and call them when necessary.
People who have dislocated jaw bones and those who have broken jaw bones that do not require surgery for treatment usually heal within four to eight weeks. Those who undergo surgical treatment for broken or dislocated jaw bone may need several months to heal and recover.
When caring for your broken or dislocated jaw bone, apply ice on the ailing part, this helps reduce pain and prevent swelling.
If the doctor has prescribed pain or antibiotic medication, ensure that you follow the prescription.
Eat soft foods or use a blender to soften foods.
You should avoid at all costs putting pressure on your jaw or playing active sports during your recovery period. Wearing a mouth guard can help prevent further dental issues.