A fracture of the jaw, most often caused by a direct blow. A minor fracture may cause tenderness, pain on biting, and stiffness. In more severe injuries, teeth may be loosened or damaged, jaw movement may be severely limited, and there may be loss of feeling in the lower lip. Minor fractures are normally left to heal on their own. For severe fractures with displacement of the bones, surgical treatment is necessary. To allow healing, the jaw is immobilized, usually by wiring the upper and lower teeth together. The wires are removed after about 6 weeks.
Jaw, fractured |
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