Dislocated Jaw Treatment Specialist in Kansas, MO

A dislocated jaw, also referred to as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, is not typically something that will heal on its own and will require medical intervention. The dislocation occurs when the jaw joint, located just below the ear, becomes displaced from its normal position. If the dislocation is left untreated, it can lead to long-term issues with the TMJ, including chronic pain and dysfunction, which could worsen the associated symptoms and further complicate the condition. It’s important to seek professional help at Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders to ensure that the jaw is properly repositioned and that any underlying issues contributing to the dislocation, such as TMJ disorders, are addressed. Early intervention from a trained professional is an important step in properly managing the dislocation and reducing the risk of recurrence. After addressing the immediate concerns of a dislocated jaw, further treatment may be necessary to stabilize the joint and restore its proper function. In many cases, this involves a combination of physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and potentially addressing any pre-existing TMJ disorders that could have contributed to the injury.

If a person experiences a dislocated jaw, it’s important that they seek treatment as soon as possible. The longer the jaw remains dislocated, the more difficult it will be to realign and treat properly. The patient may notice difficulty with normal jaw movements, such as speaking, eating, or even closing the mouth fully. Any severe pain or swelling in the jaw area should also be addressed immediately by a specialist. If the dislocation occurs frequently or the individual has a history of TMJ disorders, prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary. The specialists at Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders will evaluate the condition and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs, which may include adjustments to help alleviate pressure on the TMJ and prevent further dislocations. An untreated dislocated jaw can cause additional complications, including difficulty breathing if the jaw is displaced in such a way that it obstructs the airway. Early intervention can ensure the best possible outcome, both in relieving discomfort and in preventing further issues with the jaw and surrounding areas.

The treatment of a dislocated jaw by a specialist will begin with a careful examination by a specialist to assess the severity of the dislocation and the degree of discomfort the patient is experiencing. Often, the first step is realigning the jaw to restore its normal position. This can be done through a manual reduction where a skilled professional gently manipulates the jaw back into place. Once the jaw has been repositioned, the specialist will provide instructions on how to care for the joint and avoid further injury, including recommendations on diet and exercise to keep the joint in proper alignment. Treatment may also include long-term management of the temporomandibular joint. This could involve physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint, the use of a custom nightguard to reduce pressure on the TMJ, and other TMJ-specific treatments. Addressing the underlying factors that led to the dislocation, such as poor jaw alignment or TMJ disorders, can prevent recurrence and help to restore full jaw function.

While there are potential risks involved in treating a dislocated jaw they are generally mitigated when handled by an experienced professional. The most common risk is that the jaw may not stay in proper alignment following the manual reduction procedure, which could require further interventions. In some cases, the manipulation of the jaw could cause additional strain or discomfort, especially if there are pre-existing TMJ issues that complicate the dislocation. If the dislocation was caused by an underlying TMJ disorder, further attention to managing that condition will be necessary to avoid future dislocations. At Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, our specialists take every precaution in order to minimize risks associated with treatment. They carefully assess the patient’s overall jaw health and any other contributing factors, such as pre-existing TMJ disorders, to ensure the most appropriate and effective approach is used. After the dislocation is treated, the patient will receive thorough guidance on how to care for their jaw, including recommendations on exercises and posture to avoid further strain. With proper treatment and management, the risks associated with dislocated jaw treatment can be minimized, ensuring long-term relief and improved jaw health. For more information, call us. We serve patients from Blue Summit MO, North Kansas City MO, Avondale MO, Randolph MO and Westwood MO.