S02: Fracture of skull and facial bones

S02.6: Fracture of mandible

A fracture of the mandible refers to a break in the lower jaw bone. This type of injury usually happens as a result of blunt force trauma, such as a car accident, sports injury, or fall. Symptoms may include pain, bruising, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth or speaking. Some people may also experience numbness or a change in the shape of their face. If the break is severe, the jaw may move out of alignment, leading to an improper bite. The fracture may occur at any point along the mandible, including the area where the jaw hinges with the skull. Moreover, the injury may be compounded by damage to nearby tissues, nerves, or teeth. It's a serious condition that requires immediate medical intervention to prevent complications like infection or breathing difficulties.