There are different causes of lock jaw and the cause determines treatment. Tetanus is an acute infection caused by a bacillus and characterized by spasmodic contractions of the jaw muscles. With a tetanus infection, incorrect diagnosis leads to death. The most common cause is spasm and shortening of the jaw muscles. Muscle spasm is treated with moist heat and TMJ exercises to loosen the muscles. With muscle spasm, the lower jaw can slide laterally but not open.

          Sometimes lock jaw happens after a dental injection, when an anaesthetic is accidentally injected into the jaw muscle. If the spasm is from dental infection, it should be treated aggressively. An abscessed tooth makes pus which may extend into the jaw muscles causing muscle spasm and inflammation.

          If a jaw opens and won't close, it's due to a forward dislocation of the jaw joint. The joint pops forward and out of place and won't go back. It's treated by firmly gripping the lower jaw and rocking it downward and backward until it pops in place. This problem can occur after yawning or remaining open for a long dental appointment. A closed lock jaw can be from anterior dislocation of the TMJ disc.        

         Locking can occur after an overdose of phenothiazines or in some neurological disorders especially in the basal ganglia. Patients who experience lock jaw often have regular headaches and neck aches. There is often a history of head and neck trauma and these patients often grind their teeth. Massage therapy and TMD treatment can help.

          If you are having lock jaw problems and would like to consult Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.