Symptoms and Treatment of Jaw Bone Necrosis

Common symptoms of jawbone necrosis include jaw pain, swollen and pus-discharging gums, loose or falling teeth, noticeable oral odor, and restricted mouth opening. Treatment options include medication to control infection, surgical removal of necrotic tissue, hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjunct, local irrigation and wound dressing changes, and nutritional support. The treatment plan should be tailored according to the severity of the condition. If persistent jaw pain, gum discharge, or abnormal tooth loosening occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

I. Symptoms of Jawbone Necrosis

1. Jaw Pain: Initially, there may be a dull or mild ache localized in the jawbone. As the condition progresses, the pain intensifies and becomes persistent, worsening during chewing or touch, significantly affecting daily eating.

2. Swollen Gums with Pus Discharge: The gums in the affected area become red and swollen, often producing purulent secretions. Pus may exude when pressure is applied to the gums, accompanied by local mucosal congestion. Without proper healing, recurrent infections are likely.

3. Tooth Loosening and Loss: Destruction of jawbone structure leads to insufficient tooth support, resulting in tooth mobility that progressively worsens. In severe cases, teeth may fall out spontaneously, and the resulting wounds heal poorly.

4. Noticeable Oral Odor: Due to local infection, pus discharge, and decomposition of necrotic tissue, a strong unpleasant odor develops in the mouth. This odor persists despite brushing and rinsing, negatively impacting social interactions.

5. Restricted Mouth Opening: When the disease affects the chewing muscles or temporomandibular joint, difficulty in opening the mouth may occur. The range of motion gradually decreases, and in severe cases, normal eating or speaking becomes difficult.

II. Treatment Approaches for Jawbone Necrosis

1. Medication to Control Infection: Under medical guidance, antibiotics are used to suppress or eliminate pathogenic bacteria, control the spread of local infection, reduce inflammatory responses, and prepare for further treatments. Medications must be taken regularly and completed as prescribed.

2. Surgical Removal of Necrotic Tissue: Clearly identified necrotic jawbone tissue is surgically removed to prevent further progression of the lesion. Postoperative wound care is essential to promote the growth of healthy new tissue.

3. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Administered in a high-oxygen environment, this therapy increases oxygen supply to affected tissues, improves microcirculation in the jawbone, promotes granulation tissue formation, and accelerates wound healing. It is particularly suitable for patients with significant ischemia.

4. Local Irrigation and Dressing Changes: The affected area is regularly irrigated with saline or specialized solutions to remove pus and necrotic debris. Dressings are changed frequently to maintain a clean wound surface and minimize the risk of infection.

5. Nutritional Support Therapy: A diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins is recommended. When necessary, nutritional supplements can be used to enhance immune function and provide essential nutrients for jawbone repair, supporting overall recovery.

In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial—use a mild mouthwash regularly, avoid chewing hard foods on the affected side to reduce stress on the jaw, quit smoking and alcohol consumption, and maintain a regular sleep schedule to create favorable conditions for jawbone healing.