Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation: Inability to Close the Mouth

Introduction

​The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. A TMJ dislocation occurs when the condyle (the rounded end of the lower jaw) moves out of its usual position in the joint socket and becomes stuck in front of a bony prominence called the articular eminence.
​However, unlike a standard locked jaw caused by muscle spasms, a true dislocation prevents the mouth from closing at all, which can be a distressing and painful experience.

Causes and Triggers

TMJ dislocations can happen suddenly (acute) or become a recurring issue (chronic). Common triggers include:
​Excessive Opening: Often caused by yawning, laughing, or taking a large bite of food.
​Trauma: A direct blow to the chin or jaw, such as during a sports injury or car accident.
​Dental Procedures: Prolonged sessions where the mouth is held wide open.
​Anatomic Predisposition: Some individuals have naturally shallow joint sockets or loose ligaments, making them more prone to “subluxation” (partial dislocation).

Recognizing the Symptoms

​The most telltale sign of a dislocation is the inability to close the mouth. Other symptoms include:
​Malocclusion: The upper and lower teeth do not meet correctly.
​Pain and Swelling: Significant discomfort just in front of the ear.
​Drooling: Difficulty swallowing or closing the lips leads to saliva buildup.
​Visible Shift: The chin may appear shifted to one side if only one joint is dislocated.

Immediate Management and Treatment

A dislocated jaw is considered a medical emergency. You should seek help at an Urgent Care or Emergency Room rather than attempting to force the jaw shut yourself, as this can cause fractures or nerve damage.

Recovery and Prevention

Once the joint is reduced, the surrounding ligaments will be stretched and vulnerable for several weeks. To prevent a recurrence:
​Soft Food Diet: Stick to liquids and soft solids (mash, yogurt, smoothies) for 1–2 weeks.
​Support the Jaw: Use your hand to support your chin when yawning.
​Avoid Over-extension: Avoid large sandwiches, apples, or dental work until cleared by a doctor.
​Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles that stabilize the jaw can be highly effective.