Jaw Injury

A jaw injury is damage to the upper or lower jaw, often from a fall, a sports impact, or an accident. It may involve the bone, the joint that moves the jaw, or the muscles around it. Signs can include pain when opening or closing the mouth, a bite that suddenly feels different, swelling, or numbness in the lip or chin area.

What Jaw Injury involves

Because a jaw injury can affect breathing, swallowing, and the position of the teeth, it needs prompt professional assessment. A dentist or urgent care provider will check the bite, the movement of the jaw, and whether teeth have been damaged, and will use imaging when needed to look for a fracture or joint injury.

Signs of Jaw Injury

• Pain when opening, closing, or moving the jaw
• A bite that feels different after an injury
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness along the jaw
• Numbness in the lip or chin, or difficulty opening the mouth

What to do right away for Jaw Injury

• Avoid forcing the jaw open or closed
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of the face for short periods if it helps
• Avoid chewing hard foods and rest the jaw as much as you can
• Seek urgent care promptly, especially if the bite has changed or pain is severe

How a dentist may help with Jaw Injury

• Check the bite, jaw movement, and any tooth damage
• Use imaging when needed to look for a fracture or joint problem
• Stabilise or refer the injury as appropriate
• Give guidance on eating, pain relief, and follow-up

When to seek urgent care for Jaw Injury

Seek urgent care right away if you cannot open or close your mouth, breathing or swallowing is affected, bleeding is heavy, or a serious head injury is involved.

General information on this page is not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.

Related emergency dental help

• Fully Dislodged Tooth
• Partially Dislodged Tooth
• Soft Tissue Injury

Emergency Dental Services — back to the full list. Contact Emergency Dentist for general enquiries, or call for urgent help.

Frequently asked questions about Jaw Injury

Can a jaw injury heal without treatment?

Some jaw soreness settles, but a changed bite, severe pain, or difficulty opening the mouth needs prompt professional assessment.

What if my teeth no longer meet normally?

A changed bite after an injury can signal jaw or tooth damage. Do not try to force the jaw into place; get it checked promptly.

Should I apply heat or cold?

A cold compress on the outside of the face for short periods can help with swelling. Avoid putting anything hot directly on an injured jaw.