What are the symptoms and treatment methods for osteomyelitis of the jaw?

Symptoms of osteomyelitis of the jaw include jaw pain, localized swelling, loose teeth, limited mouth opening, fever, and fatigue. Treatment may involve antibiotics, local drainage, surgical debridement, pain management, and nutritional support, with interventions tailored according to the severity of the condition. If severe jaw pain, worsening swelling, or persistent high fever occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Symptoms of Osteomyelitis of the Jaw

1. Jaw Pain: The pain is typically a persistent dull ache or throbbing sensation, which worsens during chewing or pressure. It may radiate to the ear or face and can significantly disrupt sleep and daily eating in severe cases.

2. Localized Swelling: Noticeable swelling occurs in the jaw and surrounding soft tissues. The overlying skin may appear red and feel warm to the touch. The swollen area is often firm, and some patients may detect an abnormal jaw contour upon palpation.

3. Loose Teeth: Inflammation affecting the periodontal tissues and alveolar bone reduces tooth support, leading to tooth mobility, weakened bite force, and a noticeable shifting sensation in the teeth during chewing.

4. Limited Mouth Opening: Muscles around the jaw may spasm due to inflammatory irritation, resulting in reduced mouth opening. In severe cases, the opening may be restricted to the width of one finger, impairing speech and eating.

5. Fever and Fatigue: As the infection progresses, systemic symptoms may develop, including low-grade or high fever, generalized weakness, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Some patients may also experience chills.

2. Treatment of Osteomyelitis of the Jaw

1. Antibiotic Therapy: Appropriate antibiotics sensitive to the causative pathogens are selected and administered orally or intravenously to control inflammation and inhibit bacterial growth. Medication must be taken for the full prescribed duration; premature discontinuation should be avoided to prevent antibiotic resistance.

2. Local Drainage: If an abscess forms around the jawbone, surgical incision and drainage are required to evacuate pus, relieve local pressure, and promote resolution of inflammation. Proper wound care is essential post-procedure.

3. Surgical Debridement: Necrotic bone tissue or severely infected areas must be surgically removed to eliminate the source of infection. Bone reconstruction may be necessary in some cases to restore jaw function.

4. Pain Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to alleviate significant pain. Local cold compresses may also help reduce pain and swelling, minimizing the impact on the patient’s quality of life.

5. Nutritional Support: A diet rich in protein and vitamins should be maintained during treatment to enhance immune function and support tissue healing. Intravenous nutrition may be required when oral intake is insufficient, ensuring adequate nutritional supply for recovery.

In daily life, maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing with warm saline after meals, avoid chewing hard foods on the affected side, choose soft and easily digestible foods, and maintain regular sleep patterns to support healing and resolution of inflammation.