A fall, blow, or direct impact to the jaw can lead to serious dental and facial injuries. Whether it happens during sports, an accident at home, or a slip on the stairs, jaw pain after trauma should never be ignored. Even when there are no visible signs of injury, jaw pain can signal a fracture, dislocation, or damage to your teeth and joints. Prompt first aid and emergency dental care are critical in these cases.
At McLevin Dental, we specialize in treating traumatic dental injuries, including jaw pain caused by impact. This guide will help you understand how to manage jaw pain immediately after a fall, when to seek emergency dental care in Scarborough, and how to prevent complications.
Why Jaw Pain After an Impact Is a Dental Emergency
Jaw pain following trauma can stem from several issues, such as:
Fractured or broken jawbone
Dislocated jaw joint (TMJ dislocation)
Tooth fractures or root damage
Soft tissue injury to gums or cheeks
Joint inflammation (TMJ inflammation)
Any of these injuries can affect your ability to eat, speak, or breathe properly. Left untreated, jaw injuries can lead to infection, bite problems, nerve damage, or chronic pain. Thats why its essential to take symptoms seriously and contact a Scarborough emergency dentist as soon as possible.
Immediate First Aid Steps for Jaw Pain After Trauma
Before you can reach a dental or medical professional, follow these first aid steps to minimize damage and manage pain:
1. Stay Calm and Limit Jaw Movement
Avoid talking, chewing, or opening your mouth wide. Keep the jaw as still as possible to prevent worsening the injury.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
Use a cold pack or wrap ice in a towel and apply it to the side of the face. This helps reduce swelling, pain, and internal bleeding. Apply for 1520 minutes every hour as needed.
3. Control Bleeding
If there is bleeding in the mouth or around the jaw, gently press with clean gauze or a soft cloth. If teeth or gums are injured, avoid using direct pressure on the jaw itself.
4. Check for Loose or Damaged Teeth
If teeth feel mobile or painful when touched, avoid wiggling them or applying force. Do not attempt to reposition them yourself. Call your emergency dentist immediately.
5. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief (If Needed)
If necessary, you can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain. Follow dosage instructions carefully. Avoid aspirin if there is bleeding, as it may worsen it.
6. Avoid Hard Foods or Chewing
Until you receive professional evaluation, stick to soft, cold foods or liquids. Avoid hot or crunchy foods that may aggravate the injury.
When to Seek Emergency Dental or Medical Care
You should contact McLevin Dental or seek urgent medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur after a fall or blow to the jaw:
Severe or sharp jaw pain that doesnt subside
Swelling or bruising around the jaw or face
Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw joint
Loose, cracked, or broken teeth
Numbness or tingling in the jaw, lips, or chin
Misaligned bite or shifted jaw
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
If you suspect a broken jaw or have trouble breathing, go to the emergency room immediately. Then, follow up with a Scarborough dentist for continued dental and joint care.
How McLevin Dental Treats Jaw Injuries in Scarborough
Once you arrive at McLevin Dental, our team will assess your injury using a combination of physical examination and dental X-rays. Treatment may include:
Stabilization and pain relief: Well help relieve jaw discomfort and stabilize the area.
Treatment for tooth trauma: If teeth were chipped, loosened, or fractured, well perform root canals, bonding, or splinting as needed.
Referral for jaw fractures: If your injury involves a severe fracture or dislocation, we may refer you to a specialist while continuing to support your dental recovery.
TMJ management: For soft tissue injuries or dislocated joints, we provide TMJ therapy and rehabilitation guidance.
Our priority is to restore function, comfort, and alignment while preventing long-term damage.
Preventing Jaw Injuries in the Future
While accidents cant always be avoided, here are some ways to reduce your risk of jaw injuries:
Wear a custom-fitted sports mouthguard during high-impact activities
Avoid chewing hard foods like ice, bones, or hard candies
Be cautious on wet or uneven surfaces to prevent slips and falls
Treat existing TMJ disorders before they worsen with trauma
Maintain regular dental checkups to monitor joint and tooth health
Preventive care and protection are your best defense against painful and costly dental emergencies.
Final Thoughts: Act Fast to Protect Your Jaw
Jaw pain after a fall or impact should always be taken seriously. Even if the injury seems minor, underlying damage can go unnoticed and worsen over time. The first few hours are critical for minimizing complications and preserving dental health.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were ready to provide immediate, professional care for traumatic dental injuries, including jaw pain and tooth trauma. Our emergency dental team will assess the extent of the damage and begin treatment right awayso you can start healing with confidence.