Dental emergencies can leave us vulnerable to unexpected injuries, including those affecting the jaw. Jaw injuries can range from fractures and dislocations to severe pain and swelling, all of which demand immediate attention. When dealing with facial trauma, the importance of emergency dentistry becomes evident.
In many cases of emergency jaw injuries, our Woodland Hills dentist advises visiting an emergency room. If you’re unsure of what steps to take, please contact our dental practice at 818-491-7294.
If you require an emergency dentist near you in Woodland Hills, CA, our team is here to promptly relieve your pain and restore your oral health.
A fractured jaw can result from accidents or trauma to the face. If you suspect a fractured, broken, or dislocated jaw, immobilize the jaw by gently wrapping a cloth or scarf around it. Seek immediate emergency dental care for a thorough evaluation and treatment.
A dislocated jaw occurs when the lower jawbone (mandible) becomes unhinged from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Don’t attempt to force the jaw back into place. Instead, seek immediate dental care, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
If a knocked-out tooth is accompanied by jaw impact, it may indicate a more severe injury. Preserve the tooth in milk or saliva and seek emergency dental care promptly to assess the jaw and tooth condition.
Intense jaw pain and swelling can be indicative of various dental issues, including abscesses, infections, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Seek emergency dental care to diagnose the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Lockjaw is the inability to open the mouth or face jaw joint, often due to muscle spasms or inflammation. This condition can be caused by dental infections or jaw injuries. Seek dental attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Dental injuries that cause loose or dislodged teeth should be treated promptly to prevent further damage. Seek emergency dental care, and avoid touching the root of the tooth when handling it.
Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth can occur due to injuries or dental conditions. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze and head to an emergency dental clinic for immediate assessment.
Pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be debilitating. If you experience severe TMJ pain or have difficulty moving your jaw, seek emergency dental care for evaluation and pain management.
If a foreign object gets lodged in the jaw or mouth, avoid using sharp or pointed tools to remove it. Seek immediate dental attention for safe removal.
A dental abscess is a painful infection that can occur in the jaw, gums, or teeth. If you suspect a dental abscess, seek emergency dental care to prevent the infection from spreading.
A jaw injury can be painful and alarming, and recognizing the signs and symptoms is essential for timely intervention. If you experience any of the following, it may indicate a jaw injury:
If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident or injury, contact our emergency dentist in Woodland Hills for what to do next.
When faced with a jaw injury, seeking emergency dental care is paramount. Here’s what you should do if you experience a jaw injury emergency:
Do Not Attempt Self-Treatment: Avoid trying to realign a dislocated jaw or reinsert knocked-out teeth yourself. Leave these tasks to trained dental professionals.
We offer several types of sedation to alleviate dental anxiety and ensure your ultimate comfort.
Splinting is a common treatment for a jaw fracture. It involves securing the jaw in a stable position using wires, braces, or bands to allow the bones to heal. Splinting provides support and immobilizes the jaw during the recovery process.
In cases of a severely dislocated jaw, wiring the jaw shut may be necessary. This involves aligning the fractured or dislocated parts of the jaw and using wires to hold them in place. Wiring the jaw helps in proper healing and prevents further movement of the injured jaw.
Complex jaw injuries, such as facial fractures or a broken jaw, may require surgical intervention. Oral surgeons are trained to perform procedures like open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to realign and stabilize the broken jaw using screws, plates, or wires.
In some cases, physical therapy exercises may be recommended to improve jaw mobility and strengthen the muscles around the jaw joint. Physical therapy can play a crucial role in restoring normal jaw function.
The recovery time for a minor jaw injury can vary, but most patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks. Complete healing may take several months in some cases.
If you sustain a jaw injury, such as a broken or dislocated jaw while participating in sports, stop the activity immediately and seek emergency dental care. Applying a cold compress to the jaw muscles and affected area can help reduce teeth swelling and pain while waiting for a professional evaluation. Avoiding further stress on the injured jaw is essential to prevent additional damage.
While over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain temporarily, it’s essential to consult an emergency dentist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Jaw injuries can have varying degrees of severity, and proper diagnosis by a dental professional is necessary to determine the most suitable treatment approach.
No, not all jaw injuries are immediately visible from the outside. While some injuries may cause visible swelling or bruising, others, particularly internal injuries, may not manifest externally. It’s crucial to seek professional assessment for any suspected jaw injury, even if no external signs are evident, as internal damage can still be present and require prompt attention.
An injury to the jawbone can be painful and disruptive, but with the proper knowledge and preparedness, individuals can navigate dental emergencies with confidence. Contact our Woodland Hills emergency dentist today by calling 818-491-7294 to schedule an appointment.
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