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What causes a dislocated jaw?

Aug 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
Dislocation of the jaw usually refers to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation. Generally speaking, the main causes of TMJ dislocation include excessive mouth opening, traumatic impact, temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and congenital laxity of the joint capsule. If TMJ dislocation occurs, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at the dentistry department of a reputable hospital for joint reduction. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Dislocation of the jaw usually refers to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation. Generally speaking, the main causes of TMJ dislocation include excessive mouth opening, traumatic impact, temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and congenital joint capsule laxity. If TMJ dislocation occurs, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at the dental department of a reputable hospital for joint repositioning. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Excessive Mouth Opening

Opening the mouth too wide while eating large pieces of food, yawning, or keeping the mouth open for extended periods (such as during dental treatments or singing) can cause the condyle of the TMJ to move beyond the range of the mandibular fossa, resulting in joint dislocation. It is important to avoid excessive mouth opening in daily life. When yawning, gently support the jaw with your hand, and cut food into small pieces while eating to reduce prolonged mouth-opening activities.

2. Traumatic Impact

External impact to the face, such as falling and landing on the jaw or facial trauma during a car accident, can damage the normal structure of the TMJ, leading to condylar dislocation. In daily life, take precautions to avoid facial trauma. Wearing protective gear during sports activities is recommended, and it is important to promptly check the condition of the TMJ after any trauma.

3. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Syndrome

Temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome caused by long-term mental stress or abnormal occlusion can lead to joint capsule laxity and weak ligaments, reducing joint stability and increasing the risk of dislocation. Pain can be relieved under a physician's guidance using medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets, and celecoxib capsules. Heat application and physical therapy in the joint area can also help improve joint function. If occlusal abnormalities exist, orthodontic treatment is needed to adjust the occlusion.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, damaging the articular cartilage and joint capsule, causing structural damage to the joint, and increasing the risk of dislocation. Under a physician's guidance, medications such as methotrexate tablets, leflunomide tablets, and hydroxychloroquine tablets can be used to control disease progression and reduce joint inflammation. It is also important to protect the joints and avoid excessive movement.

5. Congenital Joint Capsule Laxity

This condition results in poor TMJ stability, making dislocation possible even from minor daily external forces or normal mouth opening. Patients with mild symptoms can enhance joint stability by long-term use of occlusal splints. Patients with severe symptoms may require surgical procedures such as TMJ capsule tightening or tubercle augmentation to improve joint structure and reduce the risk of dislocation.

In daily life, it is important to maintain good occlusion habits and avoid chewing on one side only. Keep your mind relaxed and reduce mental stress. Avoid chewing hard foods such as nutshells and hard candy. If TMJ dislocation occurs frequently, regular dental checkups are necessary to monitor joint health and adjust treatment plans timely.

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