Fractures of the upper jaw (maxilla) may cause double vision (because the eye muscles are inserted near the jaw), numbness of the skin under the eye (due to nerve damage) or irregularity in the bone cheek can be seen passing the finger along it.

Any injury with enough force to fracture the jaw may also injure the cervical spine. Therefore, before treating a fractured jaw, neck X-rays are done to rule out injury to the vertebrae.

A blow powerful enough to fracture the jaw, can also cause a concussion or cranial bleeding.

If possible jaw fracture, keep in place the jaw with the teeth together and still, being able to hold the jaw with one hand or preferably with a bandage wrapped several times below it and above the head. Whoever makes the bandage should proceed with care, avoiding cutting of the affected breathing.

Medical care is needed as soon as possible because fractures can cause internal bleeding and airway obstruction. Once at the hospital is possible to fix the jaw parts together, leaving the fixings for 6 weeks to let the bone heal.

During this time, the patient can eat only liquid sucked through a straw. Many jaw fractures can be repaired surgically with a plate (a piece of metal that screw into the bone on each side of the fracture). The jaws are immobilized for a few days, then you can eat soft foods for several weeks.

Some jaw fractures are not immobilized in the children, the initial treatment allows limited movement and resumed normal activity within a few weeks.

Antibiotics are usually given if a compound fracture, that is, one that extends through a tooth or the socket and open to a contaminated area as the mouth.