Jaw, dislocated

Displacement of the lower jaw from one or both temporomandibular joints. A dislocated jaw is usually due either to a blow or to yawning. There is pain in front of the ear on the affected side or sides, and the jaw projects forwards. The mouth cannot be fully closed, making eating and speaking difficult. Dislocation tends to recur. Surgery may be carried out to stabilize the joint but is often unsuccessful.