Jaw dislocation

7-minute read

Key facts

Jaw dislocation is when the lower part of the jaw moves out of its normal position.
The main symptoms include pain and difficulty moving your jaw.
If you think you have a dislocated jaw, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Your doctor will gently move your jaw back into its correct position.
To prevent dislocation, avoid opening your mouth too widely.

What is jaw dislocation?

Jaw dislocation is when the lower jaw (mandible) moves out of its normal position at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint is where the lower jaw connects to the skull. Your jaw may move forward or sideways, slipping out of the socket where it normally sits. When you dislocate your jaw, the parts that help your jaw move can't work as they should.

A dislocated jaw usually heals well, but it can cause problems in the future if not treated properly. Even if it moves back into the correct position without medical help, it can still cause pain and other complications.

If you dislocate your jaw, seek medical help as soon as possible. Never try to put a dislocation back in place yourself.

What are the symptoms of a dislocated jaw?

A dislocated jaw can make it hard to close your mouth properly. Common symptoms include:

being unable to move the jaw or close your mouth properly
your jaw looking out of place or shifted to one side
drooling
jaw pain
difficulty speaking or chewing
swelling or bruising

These symptoms can make it hard to eat or talk. Your jaw may also feel stiff and sore, which can affect your sleep.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

When should I call an ambulance or go to the emergency department?

Seek medical attention straight away if you think you have a dislocated jaw. The sooner you see a doctor, the lower your risk of complications.

Call an ambulance or go to the emergency department if you've had a strong impact to your jaw. This could be from an incident such as a car accident or assault. Also seek help straight away if you experience:

hearing problems
facial numbness
fluid leaking from your nose or ears
confusion

These may be a sign of serious damage to your brain or nerves and you may need urgent medical care.

What should I do while waiting for the ambulance?

While waiting for the ambulance or on your way to hospital, hold your jaw in place with your hand or a soft bandage. Put a cold pack on your jaw to reduce swelling.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

What causes a dislocated jaw?

Jaw dislocation is usually due to an injury, such as a hit to the face, a fall or an accident. It can also happen when you open your mouth too widely. Causes can also include very ordinary daily activities like laughing, yawning or dental procedures.

High-impact events, such as car accidents, assault or intimate partner violence may cause severe dislocations. This may lead to nerve damage or fractures.

Sometimes, jaw dislocation may be caused by underlying joint conditions like temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Habits like grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw can cause pain and cramps in the muscles around your jaw.

How is a dislocated jaw diagnosed?

A dislocated jaw is diagnosed by a doctor through a physical examination.

Your doctor will check for symptoms like trouble moving the jaw or pain. An x-rays can help confirm the dislocation and to make sure there are no broken bones.

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

How is a dislocated jaw treated?

Treatment for a dislocated jaw involves managing your pain and repositioning the jaw.

Your doctor may give you pain relief medicines or a muscle relaxant before gently moving the jaw back into place. They may also give an anaesthetic so you don't feel any pain.

Once your jaw is back in place, they may:

apply a bandage to keep your jaw stable and allow it to heal
advise you to use a cold pack to reduce swelling and discomfort
recommend you eat soft foods to minimise jaw movement
suggest physiotherapy for recovery

You should not open your mouth wide for a few weeks after you have dislocated your jaw.

What are the complications of a dislocated jaw?

A dislocated jaw can lead to several complications if not treated properly.

Complications may include:

jaw instability — the jaw may become loose and dislocate again easily
nerve or tissue damage — the surrounding muscles, nerves, and blood vessels may be injured
chronic pain — long-lasting pain in the jaw area
difficulty eating or speaking — ongoing issues with chewing or talking
jaw misalignment — the jaw may heal improperly, leading to permanent misalignment

Can a dislocated jaw be prevented?

A dislocated jaw can be prevented by avoiding activities that can strain your jaw. Use a mouth guard, helmet or other safety equipment to protect your face during sport.

If you've had a dislocated jaw in the past, take extra care to not open your mouth too widely.

Be careful during physical activities that might result in a knock to your face and wear protective gear when necessary. It's important to use protection during risky sports. Use a mouth guard, helmet or other safety equipment.

Sometimes, your doctor may suggest an injection into the jaw muscles. This works on jaw muscles to help prevent future dislocations.

Resources and support

Read more on how to treat dislocation on the St John Ambulance factsheet.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) offers support to all people affected by domestic or family violence. Call them on 02 6280 0900 or visit their website.