A dislocated jaw, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, primarily occurs when the condyle (the rounded end of the lower jaw) slips out of its socket in the temporal bone. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including:
- Trauma: A direct blow to the jaw from a fall, car accident, or physical altercation can forcefully dislodge it.
- Excessive Opening of the Mouth: Opening the mouth too wide can sometimes cause the jaw to dislocate. This can happen when:
- Laughing heartily: A wide, uncontrolled laugh can extend the jaw beyond its normal range of motion.
- Yawning widely: Similar to laughing, a large yawn can strain the jaw joint.
- Biting into large objects: Attempting to eat an oversized sandwich or apple can force the jaw beyond its limits.
- Dental procedures: Certain dental treatments that require prolonged mouth opening can increase the risk of dislocation.
- Underlying Joint Instability: Some individuals have naturally looser or more unstable jaw joints, making them more prone to dislocation. This can be due to:
- Connective tissue disorders: Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can affect the ligaments supporting the jaw joint.
- Previous dislocations: Having dislocated your jaw before increases the likelihood of future occurrences.
- Muscle Spasms: Severe muscle spasms in the jaw area can sometimes contribute to dislocation. These spasms might be related to:
- Certain medications: Some drugs can cause muscle spasms as a side effect.
- Neurological conditions: Rarely, neurological disorders may lead to jaw muscle spasms.
A dislocated jaw is a painful condition and requires prompt medical attention. Trying to force the jaw back into place yourself is not recommended, as it can cause further injury. Seek professional help immediately to ensure proper realignment and prevent long-term complications.
