If you have a broken jaw, one of the first questions you probably ask is: How long does a broken jaw take to heal?
The short answer is this:
Most broken jaws take about 6 weeks to heal.
However, the exact healing time can vary depending on the type of fracture, your overall health, and how the injury is treated.
At Calgary Oral Surgery Group in Calgary, Alberta, we treat jaw fractures regularly and guide patients through every step of recovery. Here’s what you can expect.
The Typical Healing Timeline for a Broken Jaw
In most cases, a broken jaw (also called a mandibular fracture) heals in:
- 6 weeks for full bone healing
- 2–3 weeks for initial discomfort and swelling to improve
The bone begins repairing itself right away. But even if you feel better after a couple of weeks, the jaw still needs time to fully strengthen.
That’s why it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.
If you want to understand how jaw injuries are diagnosed and treated, you can learn more on our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Treatment page.
What Affects Healing Time?
Not all broken jaws heal at the same speed. A few factors can influence recovery:
1. The Severity of the Break
A small crack in the bone may heal faster than a fracture where the bone has shifted out of place.
2. The Type of Treatment
Some jaw fractures require:
- A soft diet only
- A splint
- Surgical repair with small plates and screws
If surgery is required, healing still averages around 6 weeks, but swelling may last longer.
You can read more about surgical treatment options on our Jaw Surgery page.
3. Your Overall Health
Healthy adults typically heal faster than:
- Smokers
- Patients with diabetes
- Patients with weakened immune systems
According to the Mayo Clinic, most broken bones in adults take about 6–8 weeks to heal, including facial bones like the jaw.
What Happens During the 6 Weeks?
Here’s a simple breakdown of what most patients experience:
Week 1–2
- Swelling and bruising improve
- Pain decreases
- Soft or liquid diet is required
Week 3–4
- Bone continues to strengthen
- Chewing is still limited
- Follow-up appointments monitor healing
Week 5–6
- Bone healing nears completion
- Gradual return to normal activity
- Diet may slowly expand if approved
Even if you feel “normal” before 6 weeks, your jaw still needs protection from heavy chewing or impact.
When Is a Broken Jaw Fully Healed?
A broken jaw is considered fully healed when:
- The bone has fused back together
- There is no movement at the fracture site
- Pain has resolved
- Normal function returns
Your oral surgeon will confirm healing with an exam and sometimes imaging.
Why Proper Treatment Matters
Without proper care, a broken jaw can lead to:
- Bite problems
- Chronic pain
- Infection
- Difficulty chewing
Prompt evaluation by a trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon ensures proper alignment and healing.
At Calgary Oral Surgery Group, we serve patients throughout SE Calgary, SW Calgary, NE Calgary, and surrounding areas. Our team has advanced training in facial trauma and jaw repair.
When Should You See an Oral Surgeon?
You should seek care right away if you have:
- Jaw pain after an accident
- Swelling in the lower face
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- A bite that suddenly feels “off”
Early treatment helps ensure your jaw heals properly within that 6-week window.
Need Help for a Broken Jaw in Calgary?
If you think you may have a broken jaw, don’t wait.
Call Calgary Oral Surgery Group Office near you or Contact Us to schedule an evaluation. Our experienced team will determine the severity of your injury and guide you safely through recovery.
