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How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Broken Jaw?

Published on: October 3, 2024

Breaking your jaw is painful and can be a major disruption to your daily life. Whether it happened due to an accident, sports injury, or another cause, you're likely wondering, "How long does it take to recover from a broken jaw?" It's a common question for anyone dealing with this injury, especially when the road to recovery can seem unclear. 

In this blog, we'll explain how long it takes to recover from a broken jaw, what factors might impact your recovery time, and how you can take steps to heal as quickly and comfortably as possible.

What Is A Broken Jaw?

A broken jaw, also called a mandibular fracture, happens when a person's lower jawbone (mandible) cracks or breaks due to trauma. Although the jawbone is one of the strongest bones in the face, it can still fracture under certain conditions.

What Causes A Broken Jaw?

A broken jaw is caused by direct impact or trauma to the face. Common causes include:

  • Car accidents: Collisions can cause severe facial injuries, including jaw fractures.
  • Sports injuries: High-contact sports like football, boxing, or hockey often lead to facial trauma.
  • Falls: Falling onto the face can result in a fractured jaw, especially in the elderly.
  • Physical altercations: Punches or blows to the face because of fights can easily cause jaw fractures.
  • Workplace accidents: Machinery accidents or falls at work can also lead to jaw injuries.

What Are the Treatment Options For A Broken Jaw?

When it comes to a broken jaw, the treatment you receive will greatly affect how long it takes to recover from a broken jaw. Treatment options fall into two categories: non-surgical and surgical.

Non-Surgical Treatments for a broken jaw

Non-surgical treatment may be enough for less severe fractures where the bones are properly aligned. This involves:

Jaw immobilization:

The jaw may be immobilized using bands to limit movement and allow the bone to heal naturally over time.

Dietary changes:

Have a soft or liquid diet to avoid stressing the jaw while it heals.

Recovery takes 6 to 8 weeks with non-surgical treatment. However, proper care, such as sticking to a liquid diet and avoiding talking or chewing excessively, can help ensure a smooth recovery.

Surgical Treatments for a broken jaw

More complex or severe fractures with displacement of the bones require surgery. Surgical options include:

Jaw wiring:

The jaw may be wired shut for several weeks to hold the bones in place while they heal. This restricts jaw movement and requires a liquid diet.

Plates or screws:

In cases where the bone fragments need to be stabilized, small plates and screws may be inserted to hold the jaw in place. This method provides more stability and can sometimes allow faster recovery than wiring.

Factors That Affect Jaw Recovery Time

Several things can impact how long it takes to recover from a broken jaw. While most people heal in about 6 to 12 weeks, certain factors can make the process faster or slower. Let's look at what might affect your recovery time.

  • Severity of the Fracture

Simple hairline fractures often heal faster than complex fractures where the bone is displaced or shattered. Minor fractures may heal in 6 to 8 weeks, while more severe breaks that require surgery can extend recovery to 12 weeks or more.

  • Type of Treatment

Non-surgical treatments, such as jaw immobilization, tend to heal faster if the break is less severe. However, if surgery is needed, especially involving plates, screws, or jaw wiring, the recovery period can be longer. 

  • Age and Overall Health

Younger people usually heal faster. If you're older or have other health problems, like diabetes or bone issues, it may take longer for your jaw to heal.

  • Diet

A soft or liquid diet helps your jaw heal by avoiding strain. If you stick to the recommended diet, healing may go faster. Chewing too early can slow recovery or cause complications.

  • Following the Post-Treatment Care

Follow your doctor's advice, such as taking medicine and going to follow-up appointments to help your jaw heal properly.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Broken Jaw?

If you've broken your jaw, you're probably wondering how long it will take to recover. While the exact timeline varies depending on the severity of the break and treatment, most people can expect the recovery process to take 6 to 12 weeks. Here's a breakdown of what the typical recovery looks like:

  • First Few Days

Right after the injury or surgery, you'll experience swelling, pain, and difficulty moving your jaw. During this time, you'll need to stick to a liquid diet and take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.

  • Weeks 1 to 4

For less severe fractures, jaw immobilization through wiring or banding may be used. During the first few weeks, the bone begins to heal, but you still need to avoid any pressure on your jaw. You'll stay on a liquid diet if your jaw is wired shut.

  • Weeks 4 to 6

By this stage, swelling should be significantly reduced, and minor fractures may have healed. You might gradually move from a liquid to a soft food diet. If you had jaw surgery, you might still be in the healing phase, and physical therapy exercises could be introduced to help regain jaw movement.

  • Weeks 6 to 8

For most people, the bone will have healed significantly by the 6- to 8-week mark. At this point, you may be able to resume normal activities.

  • Weeks 8 to 12

In more serious cases, it can take up to 12 weeks or longer for the jaw to fully recover. By this time, most people are able to return to their usual diet and daily activities.

  • After 12 Weeks

After the 12-week mark, most people have fully recovered, although some may need additional check-ups or minor adjustments, especially if complications arise.

Schedule Your Appointment Today For A Faster Recovery

If you have a broken jaw or need assistance with your dental health, don't wait! Request an appointment online with Arlington Dental Excellence's expert team today. New patients can call us at (703) 420-3253, while all other callers can call us at (703) 525-0157. visit us at 3801 Fairfax Drive, Suite 54, Arlington, VA. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery! 

FAQs

How Is A Broken Jaw Diagnosed?

A broken jaw is diagnosed through a physical exam to check for swelling and pain. The doctor may also ask about your symptoms and order X-rays or a CT scan to see if there's a break and how serious it is.

Tips to Speed Up Recovery After a Broken Jaw

To speed up recovery after a broken jaw, stick to a soft or liquid diet, follow your doctor's instructions, and avoid putting pressure on your jaw. Rest is important, so give your body time to heal.

What Happens If Your Jaw Doesn't Heal Properly?

If your jaw doesn't heal properly, it could lead to pain, difficulty moving your jaw, or misalignment of the teeth. You might need further treatment, like surgery or physical therapy, to fix these problems.

At Arlington Dental Excellence, we’re committed to delivering outstanding, personalized dental care. Our skilled team uses the latest technology to provide comfortable, comprehensive services for all ages. From routine check-ups and cleanings to advanced cosmetic and restorative treatments, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. In our warm and welcoming environment, your dental health is always our priority. Experience the difference with exceptional care at Arlington Dental Excellence!

Dental Implants

At Arlington Dental Excellence, we offer dental implants, an effective and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike dentures, implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation that feels just like natural teeth. Dental implants help maintain your jaw structure, prevent bone loss, and enhance both function and appearance. With proper care, they are a long-lasting option that allows you to eat, speak, and smile with renewed confidence. Contact us today to discover how dental implants can restore your smile and improve your quality of life.

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