Mandibular fractures

Signs and Symptoms of Mandibular Fracture

• Paraesthesia or anaesthesia along the distribution of the inferior dental and mental nerve (same side lower teeth and lower lip)
• Inspection
• Step deformity of the occlusion or on external palpation of the mandible
• Loss of normal mandibular arch form
• Dental malocclusion/abnormal bite, if bilateral may be an Anterior Open Bite
• Sublingual haematoma (look under the tongue)
• Bleeding or tear in gingivae/gum
• Missing or loose teeth
• Palpation
• Mobility of segments
• Step defects in buccal or lingual sulci

Patients with a suspected mandibular fracture should be referred to the local emergency department for further assessment, investigation and treatment.