Why does the jaw drop?

The jaw drops, which may sound a little scary, but in medicine, we usually call it mandibular dislocation. This condition may cause pain and discomfort, and even affect normal speaking and eating. So, what exactly causes the jaw to drop?

Generally speaking, the main cause of a dropped jaw is a dislocation of the mandibular joint. The mandibular joint is the joint that connects the mandible to the skull and allows us to open and close our mouths, chew, and speak. When the stability of the mandibular joint is disrupted, such as from an impact, forceful yawning, or excessive mouth opening, it can cause a dislocated jaw. Imagine it like a door hinge. If you apply too much force or at the wrong angle, the door may come off the hinge. In this case, the jaw may stay in an abnormal position, causing the "dropped jaw" feeling.

In addition to physical forces, certain health problems may also cause jaw dislocation. For example, people with arthritis may be more prone to jaw dislocation due to wear and inflammation of the joints. Relaxation of muscles or ligaments, congenital structural abnormalities, etc. may also be potential causes. Sometimes, psychological factors such as habitual grinding or clenching of teeth caused by tension and anxiety may also increase the risk of jaw dislocation.

If you find yourself or someone around you with a dropped jaw, stay calm. You can try to gently push the jaw back into place, but be careful not to use too much force to avoid further damage. If you can't put the jaw back in place by yourself, or if there is severe pain or swelling, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will usually solve the problem by manipulating the jaw back into place, and may recommend wearing a brace to prevent it from dislocating again.

To prevent mandibular dislocation, you should avoid opening your mouth too hard, such as by opening your mouth slightly less when yawning or laughing. For people who grind their teeth, wearing a mouth guard at night may help. Strengthening your jaw muscles and maintaining good oral health can also help reduce the risk of mandibular dislocation.

Although a dropped jaw may sound scary, it can be effectively treated in most cases as long as you understand its causes and take appropriate measures. Hopefully this article will help you understand the causes of a dropped jaw and provide you with some practical advice.