Overview
A dislocated jaw can happen with a big yawn. A broken jaw often comes from a hit or fall.
A hit to the face or a wide yawn can dislocate the jaw.
A broken jaw may make the teeth not fit together.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Jaw pain or can't close mouth
- Jaw stuck open, or jaw hurt after a hit
Less common
- Teeth don't line up
When to get medical care
Call 911Trouble breathing or heavy bleeding.
Get care todayCan't close the mouth.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Injury.
Who is more likely to get it
- Contact sport players: Higher risk
- People with past jaw dislocation: Can happen again
Possible complications
- Jaw joint problem (TMJ disorder): Pain and clicking later on
Diagnosis
Exam and imaging.
Treatment
Get care.
Self-care
- Support the jaw with a wrap
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Wear a mouth guard in sports
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).
- A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.
Back to school, work, or sports
- School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
- Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Children: Need a check for growth plate injury.
Outlook
Treatable.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing my symptoms?
- What treatment do you recommend?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Jaw injury or dislocated jaw
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.