What Should You Do if You Experience Jaw Pain after a Fall?
Posted on 9/16/2024 by San Tan Oral Surgery |
 Jaw pain after a fall can be a frightening experience. You may be worried about broken bones, chipped teeth, or other serious injuries. While it's important to seek professional medical attention if you experience severe pain or other concerning symptoms, many cases of jaw pain after a fall can be effectively managed with proper self-care and home remedies.
Recognizing the Signs of a Jaw Injury
After a fall, it's crucial to assess the extent of your injuries. Here are some key signs that may indicate a jaw injury:
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Pain: Pain in the jaw, face, or teeth is the most common symptom of a jaw injury. The pain may be localized to a specific area or be more generalized. |
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Swelling: Swelling in the jaw area is another common symptom. This can make it difficult to open your mouth or chew food. |
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Bleeding: Bleeding from the gums or mouth may occur if you have injured your teeth or gums. |
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Loose teeth: If you have experienced a direct blow to your jaw, your teeth may feel loose or wobbly. |
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Numbness: Numbness in the jaw or face can be a sign of nerve damage. |
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Difficulty opening your mouth: If you have difficulty opening or closing your mouth, it may indicate a jaw joint injury. |
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Clicking or popping sounds: Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw joint can be a sign of a dislocated jaw or other jaw joint problems. |
What to Do if You Suspect a Jaw Injury
If you suspect a jaw injury after a fall, here are some steps you can take:
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Apply ice: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling. |
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Take over-the-counter pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. |
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See a doctor: If your pain is severe, you have difficulty opening your mouth, or you suspect a broken bone, see a doctor or dentist immediately. |
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Follow your doctor's instructions: Your doctor will likely recommend a course of treatment based on the severity of your injury. This may include pain medication, antibiotics, or surgery. |
How to Prevent Jaw Injuries from Falls
Falls are a common cause of jaw injuries, especially among older adults. Here are some tips to help prevent jaw injuries from falls:
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Wear a helmet: If you are participating in activities that put you at risk of falling, such as biking or skateboarding, wear a helmet to protect your head and jaw. |
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Use a walker or cane: If you have balance issues, use a walker or cane to help you stay stable and prevent falls. |
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Make your home fall-proof: Remove loose rugs, clutter, and other tripping hazards from your home. Install grab bars in the bathroom and other areas where you are likely to fall. |
Oral Care After a Jaw Injury
Proper oral care is essential after a jaw injury. Here are some tips:
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Brush and floss regularly: Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly, even if it is uncomfortable. This will help prevent infection and promote healing. |
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Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Avoid using a hard-bristled toothbrush, as this can irritate your gums and mouth. |
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Use an antiseptic mouthwash: Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria and prevent infection. |
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Avoid hard foods: Avoid eating hard or chewy foods that could put stress on your jaw and teeth. |
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See your dentist for regular checkups: After your jaw injury has healed, continue to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. |
Jaw Pain After a Fall: When to Seek Professional Help
In most cases, jaw pain after a fall will resolve with self-care and home remedies. However, it is important to seek professional medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
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Severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain medication |
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Difficulty opening your mouth |
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Numbness in your jaw or face |
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Bleeding from your mouth or gums |
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Loose or broken teeth |
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Signs of infection, such as fever, swelling, or redness |
By following these tips, you can help minimize the risk of jaw injuries from falls and ensure proper care if you do experience an injury. Remember, even seemingly minor injuries can have serious consequences, so don't hesitate to seek professional help if you are concerned about your jaw pain.
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