A jaw injury is one of the most common head injuries. It represents various damage to small vessels and soft tissues (scratches, bruises, hematomas) resulting from increased mechanical impact. The integrity of the skin and bone structures, in such cases, is not compromised. Often jaw injuries are accompanied by damage to the nasal cavity or eye area.

Fortunately, such injuries are almost never accompanied by unpleasant consequences and do not require serious treatment. Therapy may consist of routine treatment of the affected areas and proper care for them.

However, for a quick recovery, all people need to know what to do after a blow to the face, how to provide first aid to the victim, and also what pharmacological drugs will help speed up treatment.

Causes

A bruise of the lower or upper jaw can occur as a result of:

• Domestic conflict between people;
• Falls from a height;
• Road traffic accident;
• Falls during icy conditions;
• Unsafe sports;
• Failure to comply with safety rules on the road, work or other areas;
• Excessively active rest;
• Childish, careless games.

Symptoms

To determine the type and severity of injury, every person should know the first and most common symptoms of a bruise:

• Inflammatory processes in the lymph nodes;
• Formation of swelling of soft tissues;
• Pain during wide opening of the mouth;
• The appearance of scratches and abrasions;
• The occurrence of bruises and hemorrhages;
• Pain sensations localized at the site of injury (in the lower or upper jaw), which can radiate to the ear area and other bones of the skull;
• Inability to perform normal life activities: chew food, yawn, cough or sneeze. When performing such actions, the pain becomes more intense;
• Deterioration of the general condition of the victim.

It is quite simple to distinguish between a regular, superficial bruise and a fracture of the jaw bones: when the integrity of the bone structures is damaged, as a rule, the jaw is deformed, the signs of injury are more pronounced and the integrity of several layers of soft tissue is damaged.

However, for an accurate diagnosis, it is best to visit the nearest emergency room, where a qualified doctor will conduct the necessary examination procedure and confirm or deny the presence of a fracture, and then prescribe the appropriate treatment in your case.

First aid

Before proceeding with the treatment of the emerging pathology, the victim should be given first aid and taken for examination to a traumatologist in order to refute more serious damage to the bones of the skull (fracture, dislocation, displacement).

First of all, it is necessary, using available auxiliary items, to ensure cooling of the injured area. If the injury occurred at home, it is recommended to apply ice, frozen meat, vegetables or fruits to the bruised area of ​​skin.

It is worth remembering that direct contact of the cold compress with the skin is not allowed. It is better to wrap ice products with a towel, rag or bag.

If the injury occurred on the street or in another place where it is not possible to get ice from the refrigerator, doctors recommend using snow, rags (pieces of things) soaked in cold water, bottles of cold water or iron tools. In such situations, it is also very important to avoid direct contact of the object with the skin, because you can introduce an unfavorable infection into the resulting wound area.

To eliminate excessively intense pain, you can take a non-steroidal painkiller.

Under no circumstances should heating the damaged area be allowed. Such manipulations do not improve, but only worsen the situation.

The jaws, the field of a cold compress, should be kept at rest (wrap with a bandage or other material at hand) and go for examination to the hospital, where the doctor will tell you in more detail about the treatment of the bruise.

Diagnostic methods

To identify existing damage and refute more severe injuries, the doctor performs the following diagnostic procedures:

• Visual inspection of the area that has undergone increased mechanical stress;
• Palpation of injured areas;
• X-ray of the skull;
• Magnetic resonance and computed tomography, ultrasound (in rare cases).

Based on the results of the study, the doctor describes in detail the method of caring for the injury and prescribes medications that speed up the process of treating the bruise.

Therapy technique

Treatment of an injury to the upper or lower jaw can be done at home. Doctors recommend keeping the damaged area at rest by applying a regular fixing bandage. To accelerate the resorption of hematomas, bruises and bruises, you can use cold compresses created with ordinary ice from the refrigerator. If abrasions, scratches or wounds have formed on the skin as a result of traumatic exposure, it would be advisable to treat them with antiseptic agents (iodine, brilliant green, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide) several times a day. It is possible to treat a bruise in the jaw area with pharmaceutical drugs. The following ointments and gels have proven themselves to be effective.

Hello, dear readers of the site, do you know that in most cases a blow to the jaw leads to a knockout of the opponent? And in the training process, fighters learn to correctly attack this zone and defend against such attacks.

Consequences of a blow to the jaw

A blow to the jaw causes loss of consciousness, why? The reason for this is the following: the brain moves inside the skull along the axis. Such a knockout does not bring pain, the fighter does not feel anything, his legs buckle and he loses consciousness.

A blow with a force of 20–40 kg is enough to knock out any opponent. The difficulty lies in executing this attack correctly.

How to throw a punch to the jaw?

Beginners are often puzzled, where should they hit when hit in the jaw? The target is the entire lower jaw area. He is vulnerable to defeat. Especially the center of an abstract line. It goes from the corner of the mouth vertically down. It is better to hit this place with side blows. The working tool is the base of the palm. The fingers are turned outward. The execution is straight, only the elbow is moved to the side. The action goes from the elbow to the center of the palm. The goal is achieved along a vector to the area between the back of the head and the opponent’s ear.

You can act in a sweeping manner using the heel of your palm. The effect is a slap in the face.

A tense neck makes it easier to knock out. And in a fight, a knockout often occurs on the counter. The dynamics of the impact and the approaching body are combined. It is not necessary to hit powerfully, the main thing is to hit harder and harder. The more powerful the fist clenched at the end of the attack, the tougher it is. Here you need to work well with your feet. The effectiveness of the result depends on the rigidity of such an algorithm: first of all, the fist acts, then the shoulder, back, the leg is connected, and finally the ankle.

With a different bend in the lower jaw, you can strike with a massive side slap using the center of the palm. A side elbow attack will also do. To enhance effectiveness at a short distance, the anvil method is used: the free hand fixes the opponent’s head.

Examples of effective techniques for striking the jaw

There are different techniques to defeat this target. Below are some examples of them

1. The edge of the palm is used from the position of the thumb. Impact area:

Execution:

Practice method: you need to hit the hand, this is an imitation of a jaw injury.

1. A blow to the jaw from below. The uppercut is involved.

1. The center of the palm is used. The power is directed towards the top of the opponent's head. The implementation is sharp and powerful.

1. The side of the jaw is affected. An example of a correct movement:

1. “Jaw eversion” technique. The palm is involved. It follows in a straight line with a twist from the attacker, and then down. During boarding, the jaw shifts and falls out of the grooves.

After such attacks, it becomes clear why a blow to the jaw ends in a knockout.

Basic postulates

When performing, it is not dominoes that are used, but a flat area. The fist is clenched as tightly as possible during the second of impact. The fingers form the talar plane. The initial phalanxes are used for the attack. The entire body weight is invested in the attack. The arm, shoulder and hip are used at one time.

For the correct technique, it is optimal to use the fist or the center of the palm. The first option takes a lot of time to master.

What is a blow to the jaw called? It all depends on the technique used.

1. Direct. Usually it is inferior in power to the side version by 50 - 70%. It's harder for them to get knocked out. They are used more to open up the target for more serious strikes, such as a jab or hook.

Basics: a completely relaxed hand is thrown at the opponent, and at the moment of defeat it tenses.

Principles of attack from the right.

1. The fighter takes a side stance.
2. The body turns slightly to the right.
3. Legs are slightly bent.
4. Most of the mass is concentrated on the right leg. The leg is positioned on the entire foot.
5. The left leg is on the toe only. Her heel turns outward.
6. The right arm is extended at the elbow. A right angle is formed. She moves back a little.
7. The left one forms a defense for the jaw, moving forward. At the same second, the legs straighten sharply. The body turns to the left. The right hand should be thrown forward. Maintain jaw height. The weight is on the left leg. She stands on her entire foot. And the right one is on the toe, its heel turns outward. Chin at right shoulder.
8. Having implemented the blow, the fighter quickly takes the original stance.

Actions with the left are performed in the same way, only the participating parts of the body turn in the other direction. At the end, the initial stance is formed again.

The vector of a direct attack is affected by the opponent's height. And the vector in rare cases turns out horizontally, most often: from above or slightly upward. With the upper attack you need to lift the enemy's head across the ring, with the lower attack you need to open the mouth and hit the chin. Example in this image:

All contacts should be made sharply and shake your head.

2. Oblique. Produced from the side, but slightly lower. He is secretive and his power is great. The battle usually starts with him.

The first 5 points are identical to the direct assault technique.
6. The right arm should be straightened. The angle is obtuse. She moves backwards.
7. The same actions as in a direct attack, only the right hand follows upward to the left side - into the opponent’s jaw (the elbow does not rise much to the side, the arm does not extend in it). When attacking, the hand is directed downwards, towards the stomach, with the chin at the right shoulder.
8. Return to the stance.

Nuances: with a sharp attack, the right leg may move out of position. Then you need to put it back or put your left leg forward. The legs form a stance position.

The algorithm for an oblique attack from the left is the same, only from other sides.

3. From below. Execution with the left.

1. Combat stance.
2. Turn the body to the right, but less than during oblique attacks. It bends towards the front.
3. Leg bending, but more than with an oblique step.
4. Large mass on left leg.
5. The left arm straightens slightly at the elbow. Moves backwards.
6. The legs and torso straighten sharply. The mass is concentrated on the right leg. She stands on her entire foot. The left one is on the toe. The heel is slightly outward.
7. The left hand follows from the lower direction to the upper - into the jaw of your counterpart. The elbow is not raised to the side. The arm is slightly extended, but not straightened when attacking. In parallel, the right hand should be placed on the stomach. The chin is directed towards the left shoulder.
8. Returning the starting stance.

Execution on the right is carried out according to the same principles, but from other sides.

The same nuances may arise here as when implementing an oblique attack. The solutions are similar.

Defense

What to do after a blow to the jaw? Get treatment and draw conclusions. And to avoid this, you need to perfect your defense. But only true pros are capable of this. Its essence lies in the fact that you need to have time to turn your head in the direction of the attack, but ahead of it. This is how the blow is softened, or it passes through.

Conclusion

Damage to the jaw can result in a concussion and serious damage to the jaw itself. How to treat after a blow to the jaw? Most often by surgery. Hospital Hospital. Peace. You can doom your opponent to this. But keep in mind that a similar fate may await you too. So, be faster and more technical than your opponent.

A broken jaw belongs to the category of the most common injuries, which can be associated with both mechanical impact and certain pathological processes. The most unpleasant thing is that in this case a person experiences severe pain, and if medical intervention is not timely, he risks developing complications that affect many systems and sensory organs.

The symptoms of a jaw fracture are not difficult to determine, although this largely depends on the location of the injury (upper or lower jaw) and its cause. Moreover, this type of injury may be accompanied by dislocation or subluxation, which significantly complicates an already unpleasant clinical situation.

How can a fracture be determined, and what symptoms indicate this? First of all, the victim will experience severe pain at the site of injury, the intensity of which may increase with any movement, conversation, or touching the area. At the same time, a person will definitely not be able to eat, since when swallowing or chewing food, the pain will be unbearable. Sometimes you can feel numbness in the lower part of the jaw: as a rule, the skin completely loses sensitivity, and the tongue becomes uncontrollable and sinks.

If you do not see a doctor immediately, the following signs of a jaw fracture will appear:

1. Noticeable changes in bite. The lower dentition moves to such an extent that it is no longer able to contact the upper one.
2. Severe swelling. Due to injury, the face may become asymmetrical or noticeably swollen.
3. Bleeding in the mouth. The wounds will begin to bleed along with increased salivation.
4. Excessive jaw mobility. With any movement, it will strongly shift in one direction or another and will stop “obeying”. Often the mouth simply cannot be closed.
5. Displacement of teeth. In the absence of proper medical assistance, the teeth will begin to change their position, and noticeable gaps will appear between them.

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Classification of injury

Signs largely depend on what kind of injury occurred. For example, with an open fracture of the jaw, bone fragments extend beyond the gums, causing the mucous membrane to rupture, followed by severe bleeding and salivation. If we are talking about a closed fracture, then the facial tissues remain intact, but any movements are accompanied by severe pain, and the jaw itself may move slightly.

In addition, it is very important to determine the location of the fracture:

1. Lower jaw. It breaks much more often than the upper one due to its mobility, however, when classifying injuries, doctors distinguish between single, transverse and bilateral fractures of the angle, canine area, lateral section or the entire jaw with displacement.
2. Upper jaw. As a rule, it remains intact even with serious head injuries, but if it is damaged, the consequences will be much more serious for the person. In particular, the higher the fracture line of the upper jaw, the more severe the patient’s condition and the greater the risk of concussion.

Symptoms of a fracture of the lower jaw often boil down to loss of sensation in the chin, recessed tongue, speech impediments and severe pain.

With injuries to the lateral compartment, severe internal bleeding often begins, so the first priority of doctors is to stop it in a timely manner.

Symptoms of a fracture of the upper jaw are characterized by severe pain when closing the teeth, swelling in the middle part of the face (including under the eyes), weakening of respiratory (including smell), speech and chewing functions, possible distortions in the shape of the face and bleeding (in the oral cavity , from the nose, etc.).

Emergency care for a fracture

In case of injury with a fracture of the upper or lower jaw, the patient is given first aid and urgent hospitalization:

• If the fracture is closed, you need to apply a cold compress to the injured area: this will reduce swelling.
• If there is asymmetry of the cheekbones caused by swelling, this is a symptom of a fracture of the upper jaw. In this case, it is necessary to stop the bleeding, apply cold to the cheekbones and give the victim a painkiller.
• If necessary, the lower jaw should be tied to immobilize it, which will prevent further destruction of bone tissue.
• If bleeding begins, the blood is bright scarlet in color, and its flow is forceful, you should urgently compress the artery in the neck, and then apply an aseptic bandage.
• If the tongue sinks, it must be held to the side, while the oral cavity is manually cleared of blood clots, vomit and dental debris. In this case, you must act with the utmost caution.

Please note that in case of a displaced fracture, as shown in the photo, it is necessary to set the bone, but this should only be done by an experienced specialist, so there is no need to even probe the injured area once again: immediately call an ambulance or transport the person to the nearest emergency room.

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However, there is also one nuance here: if the patient is delivered by a private car and not an ambulance, you need to understand that if the upper jaw is fractured, the victim must be transported in a supine position; if the lower jaw is broken, the patient must sit.

How is the treatment carried out?

After providing first aid, doctors do everything to alleviate the patient’s condition: a painkiller is injected into the injured area, after which an x-ray is taken. Only an x-ray can show specialists the specifics of the injury. Before starting treatment, the traumatologist needs to know and understand the following about the fracture: the location of the crack, the presence and location of fragments, as well as the condition of nearby organs. After this, the fragments are repositioned using one of the following methods:

• applying bone sutures using special metal wires, staples and plates;
• use of a fixation device;
• installation of an implant made of artificial or natural materials.

Next, the jaw should be immobilized. Immobilization is possible only with the use of special wire-type splints or their plastic analogues, although standard fabric bandages are also suitable for simple injuries.

Types of possible surgical procedures

Surgical intervention may be inevitable if there are insufficiently intact teeth, bone tissue defects are detected, or the jaw cannot be adjusted manually (in especially severe cases).

In one of these situations, operations such as:

1. Application of bone sutures. As mentioned earlier, this is a method used to reposition fragments of an injured jaw. The surgeon can use polyamide or nylon thread, metal plates and staples.
2. Fastening the fragments using a steel knitting needle or rod.
3. Fixation of metal splints or plates that are attached directly to the bone.
4. Osteosynthesis with metal mini-plates. Provides for accurate and safe for humans dissection of skin and muscles, attachment of fragments to bone using special miniature metal plates. This allows you to fix parts of the jaw even in the most mobile areas.
5. Bony fixation using Uvarov, Rudko, Vernadsky or other devices.

How long does the rehabilitation period last?

The duration of rehabilitation depends on many factors, and the complexity of the fracture is the most important among them. Moreover, the patient’s age plays an important role: the older he is, the longer the recovery period he will need.

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Chewing function will also have to be resumed gradually during the rehabilitation period (1-2 months after the injury) and only under the supervision of a specialist to avoid complications.

Organization of nutrition during a fracture

If the jaw is fractured, the patient is given metal or rubber splints, ensuring that the bone fragments are fixed in the correct position for effective fusion. Accordingly, chewing solid food is completely excluded. In this case, the victim’s nutrition must be complete: this is necessary for tissue regeneration. What should I do?

In the first days after the fracture, it is necessary to consume only liquid food enriched with vitamins and minerals, which enters the mouth through the drinking tube.

If the front teeth are missing, then the tube is installed in this gap or inserted into the gap behind the wisdom teeth. If the patient is in a particularly serious condition, he is fed through a gastric tube or intravenously (this procedure involves administering a nutrient solution through a dropper). The consistency of the food should be no thicker than liquid cream, homogeneous and without lumps, as they can get stuck on the tires and complicate hygiene procedures. Later, the patient will be able to suck up liquid food using a spoon or straw.

Victims are offered the following menu:

• baby formulas and liquid cereals;
• broths and puree soups;
• dairy products (yogurt, kefir, fermented baked milk);
• grated or minced meat in milk or broth;
• fruit or vegetable puree.

Possible complications

3-4 days after the injury, a sharp deterioration in the patient’s condition is possible, during which the temperature rises, pain intensifies, swelling appears, followed by the formation of an abscess and the release of pus. All this is possible if:

• the victim was not provided with timely assistance;
• the remains of dental roots in the fracture gap were not removed;
• pathogenic bacteria have entered the tooth sockets, causing inflammation;
• the victim has a weak immune system;
• the patient does not comply with the treatment regimen.

These symptoms indicate traumatic osteomyelitis, which can manifest in varying degrees of severity. If treatment is carried out incorrectly, other complications may occur: traumatic sinusitis, fusion of fragments in the wrong position and the formation of a so-called false joint.

Severe nerve damage contributes to the development of osteonecrosis, that is, the death of bone tissue, which may require surgical intervention. Prolonged immobilization of the jaw leads to impaired speech (in especially severe cases) and chewing functions, which are gradually restored with the help of physical and mechanical therapy.

However, the most dangerous complication is multiple fractures in the symphysis area, which can result from untimely assistance or excessively early removal of the fixator.

Doctors' opinion

Symptoms of a jaw fracture are immediately noticeable, so patients in most cases receive the necessary medical care in a timely manner. Unbearable pain, limited movement, distortion of the normal shape of the face, increased salivation and the appearance of speech defects - all these are signs that indicate a fracture, and they simply cannot be ignored.

The only thing that doctors focus on is that the symptoms of fractures (in particular, closed ones) are quite similar to the signs of a dislocated jaw, as a result of which an inexperienced specialist may provide incorrect assistance. It is very important that all procedures are performed by a qualified doctor who specializes in treating jaw injuries, otherwise you will aggravate the situation.

Results

A jaw fracture is not uncommon, and this injury can be detected even with the naked eye. If you detect any symptoms of a violation of the integrity of bone tissue, provide the victim with first aid and urgently call an ambulance. The condition of the jaw bone in case of serious damage can be very deplorable, which is why vital human functions such as breathing are often disrupted. Be careful and never try to straighten your jaw yourself. Immobilize her, stop the bleeding and wait for the doctors to arrive. Be healthy!

Not too often, but still in everyday life, many of us have had to deal with facial injuries. Most often these are bruises. One of the most common pathologies of the facial part of the head is considered to be a bruise of the jaws, both lower and upper, as a result of mechanical or physical impact.

Such bruises are necessarily combined with injury to soft facial tissues. There may also be a bruise of the nose or. At the same time, the integrity of the facial skin and bone structure are not compromised.

Causes of damage

Bruises of the maxillofacial area can be caused by mechanical impact on soft facial tissues with a blunt heavy object, a blow to a hard surface, or a collision with a hard obstacle. Most often, patients of traumatologists with this injury are people who have been in an accident or become participants in a fight. A bruise of the lower jaw is considered more common.

Symptoms and severity of injury

As a result of injury, small blood vessels that are located in the soft tissues of the facial part of the human head are most often affected. Therefore, a patient admitted to traumatology most often indicates the presence of the following symptoms and manifestations of injury:

• the formation of swelling, redness, abrasions and hematoma at the site of application of the main force of the blow;
• severe pain that is localized in the lower jaw and can be aggravated when trying to move it;
• difficulty performing any natural actions: chewing, speaking, eating, etc.;
• inflammatory reaction in the lymph nodes;
• deterioration of the patient’s general condition, malaise.

These symptoms are characteristic of bruises of both the upper and lower jaw.

The severity of this injury depends on the following indicators:

• the nature of the objects or surfaces with which the collision occurred: their weight, material, speed at which the collision occurred, etc.;
• the collision area, the larger it is, the more severe the degree of pathology;
• the condition of the soft facial tissues and jaw bones of the victim at the time of injury.

Collisions or falls of sufficient force may cause symptoms to become more intense. The connection of the skull bones is stable.

First aid

In case of injury, the following measures can be provided to the victim:

• apply a tight bandage;
• apply cold, for example, compresses of ice wrapped in polyethylene;
• try to ensure peace;
• if the pain is severe, the victim can take any painkiller that is in the home medicine cabinet;
• transport the patient to the trauma department to make a diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.

At the same time, you should not allow the injured jaw to come into contact with heat sources, as this can only worsen the situation and increase the intensity of the symptoms.

Diagnosis and treatment

As a rule, minor jaw injuries with mild signs of bruise do not require hospitalization of the patient. Treatment can be carried out independently, since the injury does not cause him much discomfort.

An experienced doctor will be able to diagnose jaw bruises based on external signs and symptoms indicated by the patient. However, additional research will be required to rule out or dislocation. It is also very important when examining a patient not to lose sight of symptoms indicating consequences beyond the jaw and facial area. So, often, especially in cases of a fall, the victim may experience a concussion.

To avoid unwanted consequences and confirm the diagnosis, It is advisable to conduct an x-ray examination maxillofacial region.

Only after this can you begin to treat the injury. First of all, the patient needs to create conditions under which the affected area will be at maximum peace. To do this, it is advisable to apply a pressure bandage. Applying cold to the bruise site will help stop bleeding into the soft tissues and reduce pain. It is recommended to use cold for the first 2-3 days after injury.

This stage is followed by applying heat to the injury site. With the help of warming procedures, the process of hematoma resorption and regeneration of damaged soft tissues is accelerated. The following can be used as a warming effect:

• dry heat;
• Sollux;
• ozokerite applications.

Treatment with traditional medicine

Traditional medicine offers its own recipes for the treatment of jaw bruises, which have the desired therapeutic effect, especially if combined with traditional methods of treatment. Some of the most common methods of treatment with folk remedies are the following:

• applying plantain leaves, crushed onions or wormwood, previously crushed and crushed, to the bruised jaw, as it dries, it is necessary to change it or moisten it with water;
• bodyaga has proven itself in the treatment of bruises, and it is recommended to dilute the powder with water and apply it in this form to the damaged area;
• To resolve a bruise, use alcohol-water or vodka tinctures of bearberry leaves, horsetail, knotweed, corn silk, blue cornflower flowers, dried bean pods, and birch buds. To do this, the herbal ingredients used are crushed and filled with an alcohol-water solution or vodka. After this, they must be infused for about 3 days, the infusion must be strained and used for compresses.
• A self-prepared ointment made from any animal fat, finely chopped onion and crushed sea salt granules is a great way to get rid of the consequences of a bruise.

Possible consequences and prognosis

Like any other injury, if untimely and improperly treated, it can lead to very disastrous results and quite serious health consequences.

An neglected bruise can cause the development of post-traumatic periostitis, which will subsequently provoke deformation. Correcting this pathology will be much more difficult, and treatment will take a long time.

Another undesirable consequence is the development of post-traumatic myositis, which is an inflammation of bone tissue. Often, against the background of neglected bruises, contracture develops - a restriction of the natural mobility of the jaw joints.

These consequences can be especially serious if you get a bruise in childhood. It is during this period that the periosteum is formed in the body. If surgical intervention is not performed in a timely manner, the pathology can cause the formation of a malignant tumor - sarcoma.

Thus, in order to maintain your health and avoid all the unpleasant consequences of a bruise, it is necessary to correctly provide first aid to the victim, make a professional diagnosis in a medical institution and promptly use the correct treatment methods. If you follow all the doctor’s recommendations, the prognosis is almost always favorable.

Facial injuries are quite common. A jaw bruise is an injury without violating the integrity of the skin and bone tissue.

The main difference between it and a fracture is that the victim is able to close and open his mouth, although this causes serious pain. Only an experienced specialist can identify the problem and carry out differential diagnostics.

Most often, such injuries have a favorable prognosis, but it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive study to exclude possible complications. In addition, you should strictly follow medical recommendations and appear in a timely manner for preventive examinations if necessary.

Most injuries occur unexpectedly and to varying degrees of severity.

Most often they are observed in the following cases:

• falling onto a hard surface;
• due to collision with objects;
• various impacts (road traffic accidents, domestic fights, contact sports).

The severity of such injuries largely depends on the affected area, the type of object that affected the bone tissue and age-related changes in facial tissue.

Damage to the lower jaw

This injury is the most common. It occurs in both children, adults and the elderly. The important point is to identify the type of damage as soon as possible and provide first aid. The further prognosis and duration of treatment will depend on this.

A mandibular contusion is a soft tissue injury in the lower parts of the face. As a result, an internal hematoma is formed due to the rupture of small blood vessels.

In the event of a bruise, the bone tissue remains intact and the teeth and gums are not injured. Usually occurs as a result of impact on the maxillofacial area with a blunt object.

The severity of the injury is largely influenced by the moment of impact. Severe consequences are observed with highly tense muscles. In this case, they rupture, forming an extensive hematoma with a pronounced pain reaction.

Main symptoms

Any disease has its own fundamental signs. Symptoms of a bruise of the lower jaw are usually quite striking. The main sign is sharp pain, abrasions, damage to the cheek or lip.

If the blow falls on the area of ​​the dental arch, then gaping wounds form on the soft tissues on the side of the oral cavity. The lower lip looks swollen, sagging and hyperemic.

To make a correct diagnosis, differential diagnosis is necessary. It is important to exclude the eye sockets and nose.

After a strong blow, the victim should not be left unattended. It is imperative to monitor his general condition. Together with complaints and external examination, a preliminary diagnosis can be established.

In addition to local signs, general manifestations should also be taken into account:

• damage in the form of scratches and hyperemia in the jaw area;
• swelling in the lower part of the face;
• the presence or absence of hematoma of varying volume;
• malaise and swollen lymph nodes;
• sharp or constant pain even at rest;
• impairment in mouth opening, eating and speaking;
• increased pain response from touching the damaged area, as well as movement of the jaw to the left or right side.

Attention!!! The main differential diagnostic sign of a bruise from a fracture is that the jaw bones do not change their anatomical structure. In addition, the line of bone integrity violation can be determined by palpation.

If the injury is severe, the victim must in any case be taken to a doctor for examination to clarify the condition. It is important to carry out rapid transportation with preliminary first aid.

Damage to the upper jaw

The nature of injury in this area is more complex. Its danger lies in the fact that serious complications may occur. It is quite easy to distinguish a bruise of the upper jaw from the lower one.

This is determined by the location of the pain and the consequences of trauma. However, it should be taken into account that unpleasant sensations can radiate to the lower part of the face. But the main difference here will be the absence of impaired mobility of the lower jaw.

The symptoms of a bruise of the upper bone tissues are very similar to the previous problem. There is an inflammatory process and pain, swelling, and sometimes enlargement of regional lymph nodes. Even if there are no obvious signs of bruises, you need to go to the clinic.

The doctor must first rule out a fracture. In the upper jaw, such injuries are dangerous for brain damage.

For example, a Le Fort 3 fracture is a separation of the bones of the skull and face. Without professional medical care, death can occur in this case.

Diagnostic measures

If minor injuries to the maxillofacial area occur, they do not require contact with a dentist or surgeon, or urgent hospitalization. If there is severe and prolonged pain, the area of ​​damage should be examined by a specialist.

The following are used as diagnostics:

• taking anamnesis;
• general examination by a surgeon, orthopedic dentist, traumatologist;
• special examination by an otolaryngologist, neurologist and other specialized specialists as necessary;
• X-ray examination of the maxillofacial area;
• computed tomography;
• analysis of blood, urine, saliva.

Based on the data obtained, a general picture of the victim’s health is formed and a specific treatment is recommended.

The main therapeutic direction will be the following:

• taking painkillers;
• applying a pressure bandage;
• ensuring maximum peace for the victim;
• prescription of physiotherapeutic procedures;
• local and general anesthesia;
• elimination of hematoma and infiltrate.

First aid and treatment of bruises

Once the location of the damage has been identified, it is necessary to begin simple manipulations. Of course, they will depend on the nature of the damage. If there are open wounds, first of all they must be washed and treated with antiseptic.

Suitable products for this include hydrogen peroxide, Chlorhexidine, Miramistin, Bepanten. Before applying the antiseptic, the wound can be washed with soapy water. The bleeding area must be covered with a clean cloth or, if available, a sterile bandage.

Then apply cold to the affected area through the cloth. This can be an ice pack or a regular towel soaked in cold water, which is applied through a waterproof film.

For severe pain, the following medications are recommended by mouth:

• Analgin;
• Ketorol;
• Nurofen;
• Sedalgin;
• Nise;
• Took;
• Tempalgin;
• Nemesis.

Elements of treatment and means used

Immediately after injury, first aid must be provided. Usually, all bruises of the upper and lower jaw can be treated quite well without medical intervention. However, in case of severe lesions, it is still worth contacting specialists for examination.

Table No. 1. Painkillers:

Name of the drug	Active substance	Additional action	Directions for use
	Ketoprofen.	Anti-inflammatory and decongestant.	Apply a thin layer to the skin 2-3 times a day.
	Ketoprofen.	Anti-inflammatory, improves blood circulation.	Rub the gel until completely dry 2 times a day.
	Ibuprofen.	Relieves swelling and inflammation.	Apply with gentle massage movements, 3 times a day, up to 3 weeks.
	Nonivamide, Nicoboxil.	Improves blood circulation, recommended on the 3rd day after injury.	After application, it is recommended to cover the affected area with a warm cloth.
		Anti-inflammatory.	Children apply no more than 1 cm of gel, adults no more than 15 cm, 2 times a day.

First of all, cold is applied to the lesion. Low temperatures will help not only relieve swelling and stop bruising, but also provide partial pain relief.

For the most effective elimination of unpleasant sensations, it is necessary to take analgesics internally or apply special ointments externally. Modern drugs are available in the form of gels. They are easy to use, quickly absorbed and do not stain clothes.

It is good to use products that contain Heparin. It helps to quickly get rid of infiltration and eliminate the phenomenon of swelling. Heparin-based drugs should not be used by persons with bleeding disorders.

If the gel contains horse chestnut extract, it is contraindicated for people suffering from kidney disease and pregnant women. To prevent side effects from using the gel or ointment, the attached instructions should be studied in any case.

Table No. 2. Coolants:

Name of the drug	Active substance	Additional action	Directions for use
	Menthol, methyl salicylate.	Painkillers, anti-inflammatory	Apply in large quantities 3-4 times a day.
	Aloe vera extract, menthol, camphor, vitamin E.	Quickly relieves pain and has an anti-inflammatory effect.	Apply a thin layer without rubbing.
	Ketoprofen, Trometamol, essential oils.	Decongestant and painkillers.	Rub in with smooth movements until completely dry.
	Escin, salicylic acid.	Decongestant, anticonvulsant, painkillers.	Apply with light massage movements, 3-4 times a day, for no more than 14 days.

The price of medications in the form of gels and ointments ranges from 220 rubles to 350 rubles. One package is completely enough for a course of treatment.

It is difficult to predict when a particular injury will occur. To reduce the risk of bruises and other injuries, precautions should be taken. In winter, move carefully on slippery sidewalks; in summer, when engaging in active sports, think through the possible consequences.

Folk remedies

There are several proven, simple and at the same time effective ways to have the positive effects of alternative medicine. They are indispensable products for pregnant women, children, as well as people who have a severe allergic reaction to medications. You can make a choice based on personal preferences or doctor’s recommendations.

Treatment at home for bruises can be carried out using the following means:

1. Table salt solution. Compresses are prepared from it, which are used for any complexity of bruises. To prepare, a tablespoon of salt is dissolved in 150 ml of boiled water. Then take a sterile bandage, soak it in the solution and apply it to the problem area. The compress is covered with a thick cloth on top. The gauze pad with salt can be left overnight.
2. Grated potatoes. The tubers should be washed and cleaned first. Grate one tuber on a coarse grater, place in linen cloth and wrap several times. After applying the bruise, cover the top with a thick towel. Compressor exposure time is 30-40 minutes. For best results, make 3-4 applications in a row.
3. Cabbage leaf. Before applying it, you should knead it a little or make cuts on it to let the juice out. The sheet is applied to the sore spot 2-4 times a day until it dries completely.
4. Onions and garlic. The two ingredients are ground and mixed together. The resulting slurry is added with half a tablespoon of salt; it is recommended to wrap the mixture in gauze and place it in the area of ​​the bruise.
5. Beetroot and liquid honey. Finely grated root vegetables are mixed with a tablespoon of natural honey. The procedure is carried out 1-2 times a day for 2 hours.
6. Laundry soap. This remedy helps reduce the pain response. The soap is grated and mixed with raw chicken yolk. I apply a compress every half hour up to 6-8 times a day. You can also rub a damp cloth with laundry soap and apply it to the bruised area.
7. Apple cider vinegar. This is one of the most effective means. To prepare the solution, you need to take 2 teaspoons of vinegar and dilute it in 1 liter. water. Soak a clean cloth in the solution and apply 3-4 times a day for half an hour.

The video in this article shows how to properly apply a warm and cold compress for bruises.

Possible consequences

A bruise is not usually considered a serious injury. However, if you neglect the necessary treatment, unpleasant consequences arise. For example, the result of a bruise of the lower jaw can be a violation of the depreciation of muscle fibers, changes in the cartilage tissue of the joint and a speech defect.

On the muscle side, post-traumatic myositis develops as a complication. It is an inflammatory process that is difficult to respond to therapeutic effects in the future.

Attention!!! Bruises of various etiologies often become the cause of the formation of oncological tumors. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment can completely eliminate this complication.

With insufficient attention to the problem, jaw deformation, post-traumatic periostitis and even osteomyelitis occur. Abscesses and phlegmons may form in soft tissues. Such conditions require long-term therapy, with a long recovery period.

Injury to the maxillofacial area is not a trivial matter. It is worth treating this problem with increased attention. Of course, many of them go away on their own. However, ideally any injury should be examined by a medical professional.