A mandibular fracture is a break in the lower jawbone (mandible). The mandible is one of the strongest bones in the face but can fracture due to trauma such as:
Road traffic accidents
Falls
Physical assault
Sports injuries
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Common Symptoms
Severe jaw pain
Swelling and bruising of the jaw/face
Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus)
Pain while chewing or speaking
Misaligned bite (teeth don’t fit normally)
Loose or broken teeth
Numbness in the lower lip or chin (due to nerve injury)
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Common Sites of Mandibular Fracture
1. Condyle (near TMJ)
2. Angle of mandible
3. Body (middle part)
4. Symphysis (chin area)
5. Ramus
Often, two fracture points can exist because the mandible forms a ring.
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Diagnosis
Clinical examination
X-ray (Orthopantomogram / OPG)
CT scan of face → most accurate
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Treatment
Depends on severity, displacement, occlusion (bite), and presence of teeth.
1. Closed Reduction (MMF – Intermaxillary Fixation)
Teeth are wired or fixed with elastics
Jaw remains immobilized for 3–6 weeks
Used in non-displaced fractures.
2. Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
Small surgery to expose bone
Fracture fixed with metal plates and screws
Used when fracture is displaced, complex, or affects occlusion.
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Diet During Healing
Soft or liquid diet:
Soups
Dals
Fruit juices
Milkshakes
Khichdi, soft rice
Avoid:
Hard foods
Chewing tough meat
Jaw overuse
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Healing Time
Usually 6–8 weeks
