A dislocated jaw is usually caused by trauma to the face or opening the mouth too wide.
Common Causes of Jaw Dislocation:
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Injury: Direct impact to the face from falls, vehicle accidents, or assaults are frequent causes. This force can displace the jawbone from its socket.
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Excessive Mouth Opening: Opening the mouth wider than normal can also lead to dislocation. This can occur during activities such as:
- Yawning
- Eating large foods
- Vomiting
- Dental procedures
Essentially, any event that forces the jawbone beyond its normal range of motion can result in a dislocation.