Conservative management of an adult with multiple mandible fractures

Various approaches have been supported in the treatment of mandible fractures. Variables including number and location of fractures, patient age, status of dentition, overall health and socioeconomic factors may be used to aid in selecting the most appropriate treatment. In adults, multi-fracture cases are typically treated surgically with any combination of maxillomandibular dental fixation and rigid internal fixation. A case is presented here wherein a select patient with multiple mandible fractures was treated with observation alone. Her fractures and treatment course are described along with a brief discussion of the available treatment alternatives and how this option compares.