53200 - Mandible Dislocation Treatment (Non-Surgical)

The need for treatment of a mandibular dislocation not requiring open reduction arises when a patient’s jaw dislocates—often from trauma, yawning, or habitual laxity—causing pain, inability to close the mouth, or chewing difficulty, requiring manual repositioning under anesthesia to relocate the mandible into the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) without surgical incision. This procedure is indicated for simple dislocations manageable non-invasively, critical in the maxillofacial region where jaw alignment affects function and comfort.

Specific conditions driving this need include:

• Acute trauma: A blow to the jaw might displace it, needing manual reduction to restore alignment and relieve pain.
• Habitual dislocation: Frequent dislocations from lax ligaments or wide mouth opening (e.g., during dental work) could require repositioning to prevent recurrence.
• Spontaneous event: A large yawn or chewing motion might dislocate the jaw, causing distress and necessitating immediate correction.
• Functional impairment: Inability to chew or speak properly due to the dislocation prompts quick intervention to regain normal jaw movement.

For example, a patient who dislocates their jaw while eating might undergo this procedure under sedation to gently reposition it, avoiding the need for surgery. In an aged care setting, an elderly patient with a spontaneous dislocation from weakened jaw muscles could benefit from this to restore eating ability, performed with care due to their frailty. By manually relocating the mandible without open surgery, this service alleviates pain, restores jaw function, and prevents prolonged discomfort, making it a straightforward yet essential treatment for non-complex mandibular dislocations within the maxillofacial framework.

Restores jaw alignment, relieves pain, and improves chewing function quickly.

Recovery of a few days with mild jaw soreness and restricted opening; typically outpatient.