It happens in an instant a fall, a hit to the face, or a sports collision and suddenly your jaw hurts more than usual. You might be wondering: is it just bruised, or did something actually break?

Jaw injuries can be tricky. Some fractures are obvious, but others might not show immediate symptoms. If you're unsure about what you're feeling, it helps to understand how to know if your jaw is broken and what signs to look out for. Acting fast can prevent serious complications and get you on the road to healing.

What Causes a Broken Jaw?

A broken jaw, or mandibular fracture, occurs when the lower jawbone cracks or breaks due to force. It’s one of the most common facial bone injuries. The most frequent causes include:

• Car or motorcycle accidents

• Falls from bikes, stairs, or uneven surfaces

• Direct impact during contact sports

• Assault or being struck by a heavy object

• Workplace accidents or trauma on a job site

Even minor trauma in the right spot can lead to a fracture, especially if your bones are weakened by dental disease or prior injury.

How to Know If Your Jaw Is Actually Broken

Many people mistake jaw fractures for sprains, bruises, or even dental problems. Here are the most reliable signs that your jaw may be broken and not just sore:

1. Severe Jaw Pain, Especially with Movement

If your jaw pain increases significantly when you try to talk, chew, or open your mouth, it may be more than just a bruise. Sharp, localized pain with motion is a key symptom.

2. Swelling and Bruising

Swelling in the lower face or jawline, especially if it develops within a few hours of an injury, could signal a fracture. Bruising may appear on the skin or even inside the mouth.

3. Your Bite Feels “Off”

When your teeth no longer come together the way they did before the injury, it’s often due to the jaw being out of alignment. This can happen even with a small crack in the bone.

4. Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Mouth

Limited movement or stiffness is a common symptom of a fracture. If your jaw locks or won’t move smoothly, there may be bone damage preventing proper motion.

5. Loose or Damaged Teeth

If you notice one or more teeth feel loose or were knocked out, the force may have fractured the bone that supports them.

6. Tingling or Numbness

Loss of feeling in the chin or lower lip may mean a nearby nerve was affected by a fracture. Numbness after trauma is always a reason to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Help

Not all jaw injuries require emergency care, but the following symptoms mean you should seek help immediately:

• Jaw pain with swelling or bruising after an injury

• Pain that worsens with chewing or talking

• Your mouth won’t open fully or feels stuck

• New gaps or alignment problems in your bite

• Numbness in your face or chin

• Bleeding inside the mouth that won’t stop

These are signs of a potential fracture or dislocation that must be addressed by a dental or medical professional.

What Happens at the Doctor or Dentist’s Office?

If you go in for evaluation, the first step is a physical exam. The provider will check:

• Where the pain is located

• How well your jaw moves

• Whether your bite is aligned

• If any teeth are loose or out of place

They may also order imaging, such as:

• X-rays to check for breaks in the jawbone

• Panoramic radiographs to view the entire jaw

• CT scans for complex or deep fractures

These tools help determine the location, size, and severity of the break.

Treatment for a Broken Jaw

The treatment you receive depends on how serious the fracture is.

Mild Fractures

• Jaw support or banding to keep the jaw still

• Liquid or soft diet to avoid chewing

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication

• Regular follow-ups to check healing progress

Serious Fractures

• Surgery may be needed to reposition the bone

• Wires, screws, or plates may be used for stabilization

• Full immobilization for several weeks

• Possible dental or orthodontic treatment if the bite is affected

Healing typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity and your overall health.

Recovery Tips

While recovering from a broken jaw:

• Follow your provider’s diet and care instructions closely

• Avoid chewing, yawning widely, or putting pressure on your jaw

• Use prescribed rinses if you can’t brush normally

• Attend all follow-up visits

• Watch for signs of infection, like fever, increasing pain, or foul odors

A full recovery is likely with proper care, though some patients may need bite adjustments or dental correction afterward.

Preventing Future Injuries

While some accidents are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to protect your jaw:

• Wear a helmet when biking, skating, or riding a motorcycle

• Use a custom mouthguard during sports

• Take fall prevention seriously at home, especially around stairs

• Treat dental infections early to avoid weakening your jawbone

• Wear safety gear in jobs where facial injuries are a risk

Final Thoughts

Jaw pain after trauma should never be brushed off. While not all injuries result in a fracture, knowing the warning signs of a broken jaw can help you act fast and get the treatment you need.

If you suspect your jaw might be broken, don’t wait to find out. Even small fractures can lead to serious problems if left untreated. See a professional, get an exam, and begin recovery right away your jaw will thank you later.