How we manage mandibular fractures

Mandibular fractures occasionally are sports-related injuries. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and symptoms and is confirmed with various radiographic views of the mandible. The nature of the fracture and the presence or absence of teeth determine the type of treatment used. Treatment modalities include temporary stabilization with subsequent open or closed reduction using one of a variety of techniques. Rigid internal fixation of fractures - a recently developed technique - may eliminate the need for prolonged immobilization of the jaw and permit early function of the jaw.