Symptoms of chronic osteomyelitis of the jaw

Chronic osteomyelitis of the jaw is an infectious disease of the jaw. Common symptoms include local pain, swelling, fever and functional impairment. Treatment should be based on the condition, including antibiotics, surgical debridement or physical therapy.

1. Local pain

One of the typical symptoms of chronic osteomyelitis of the jaw is persistent pain in the jaw area, which may be aggravated by chewing or opening the mouth. The pain is usually caused by inflammation irritating the nerve endings, and in severe cases may radiate to the head or neck. If the pain persists, you need to see a doctor in time to prevent the condition from getting worse.

2. Swelling and fever

The soft tissue around the jaw may be visibly swollen, with local skin redness and elevated temperature. Some patients may also experience systemic fever, which is the body's immune response to infection. If the swelling expands or the fever persists, be alert to the possibility of the infection spreading.

3. Dysfunction

Chronic mandibular osteomyelitis may lead to limited mouth opening, difficulty chewing, or loose teeth. These symptoms are related to bone destruction and adhesion of surrounding tissues caused by inflammation. Early intervention can reduce the occurrence of functional impairment and avoid affecting daily life.

4. Treatment methods

Drug treatment: Antibiotics are the basis for the treatment of chronic mandibular osteomyelitis. Commonly used drugs include penicillins, cephalosporins or clindamycin. Sensitive antibiotics should be selected based on the results of bacterial culture. The course of treatment is usually 4-6 weeks.

Surgical treatment: For severe cases, surgical debridement is required to remove necrotic bone tissue and infection. Surgical methods include lesion curettage, bone grafting or jaw resection.

Physical therapy: After surgery, hot compresses, ultrasound therapy or laser therapy can be combined to promote local blood circulation and tissue repair.

5. Prevention and care

Oral hygiene: Keep your mouth clean, brush your teeth regularly and use mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth.

Diet adjustment: Avoid hard or hot foods, and choose foods that are easy to chew and rich in vitamin C and protein, such as eggs, fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Regular follow-up: X-rays or CT scans are required regularly after treatment to monitor bone recovery and prevent recurrence.

Chronic osteomyelitis of the jaw has various symptoms, and early detection and treatment are key. If jaw pain, swelling, or dysfunction occurs, seek medical attention promptly to avoid worsening of the condition. Most patients can achieve a good prognosis through drug treatment, surgical intervention, and daily care.