Maxillofacial trauma
Broken Jaw — Mandible Fracture
Symptoms, emergency steps and treatment for a broken lower jaw, and follow-up afterwards.
Overview
Also known as: broken jaw, fractured jaw, lower jaw fracture
The lower jaw is one of the most frequently injured facial bones — in falls, blows, sports or road accidents. It may break in one or several places, including near the jaw joint.
Typical symptoms are pain, swelling, a change in the way the teeth meet, difficulty opening the mouth and sometimes numbness of the lower lip and chin.
If a broken jaw is suspected, an urgent examination is needed. Treatment depends on the type and location of the fracture and is decided after clinical examination and imaging.
When to seek a consultation
- Pain and swelling in the lower face after an injury, especially when talking or chewing.
- The teeth do not close as usual or the bite feels ’out of place’.
- Numbness of the lower lip or chin.
- Difficulty opening the mouth, bleeding from the gums or loose teeth.
- If there is difficulty breathing or swallowing, heavy bleeding or loss of consciousness — call 112 immediately.
What treatment may involve
- Urgent assessment in an emergency department: airway, other injuries and pain relief.
- Imaging — X-ray or CT — to confirm the location and type of fracture.
- Some fractures without displacement may be suitable for non-surgical treatment with temporary immobilisation and a soft diet.
- For displaced fractures, surgery under general anaesthesia to realign and fix the bone fragments so that the bite is restored.
- Check-ups and imaging to monitor healing.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
Recovery and follow-up
In the first days after treatment, swelling and discomfort are expected. A soft diet is usually advised for a period, together with careful oral hygiene and following the instructions on medicines and check-ups.
Healing time is individual and depends on the type of fracture, the treatment and general health. If pain gets worse, swelling increases, or you develop a fever or difficulty swallowing, seek medical help immediately.
Risks and alternatives
Possible complications include infection, delayed or incorrect healing, bite changes, numbness of the lower lip and chin, damage to teeth in the fracture line and limited mouth opening. Sometimes a further procedure is needed.
The choice between non-surgical and surgical treatment depends on the type of fracture and is discussed individually. Delayed treatment can make it harder to restore the bite.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my jaw is broken?
Pain, swelling, a changed bite and a numb lip after an injury are serious signs. Only an examination and imaging can confirm a fracture — seek urgent care.
What should I do straight away if I think my jaw is broken?
Go to an emergency department, and call 112 if there is difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding or loss of consciousness. Do not eat until you have been examined.
Does a broken jaw always need surgery?
Not always. Some fractures without displacement can be treated without surgery, while displaced ones usually need surgical realignment — the decision is made after investigations.
How long does a broken jaw take to heal?
Healing is individual and depends on the type of fracture and the treatment. Check-ups show when it is safe to return to a normal diet.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.