cant open jaw for 1and1/2 week?

Question

I have not been able to open my jaw all the way for atleast a week and a half. I thought it was b/c of grinding my teeth at night, and i started to weaar a nightguard but it has not got better. And i have had a tetanus shot

Answer 1

You're grinding may have caused a tempero-mandibular disc dislocation. The disc han get pulled completely forward of where it belongs, causing a "closed lock" situation. There are expensive things that can be done, but you can try some free physicl therapy with good results.
1. soft diet, nothing chewy or hard (6 weeks minimum)
2. (most important) slide your jaw straight forward until the edges are aligned. Hold this position for about 20 seconds, rest, then do it again. Do this twice an hour, gradually increasing the time you hold your jaw forward. This moves your jaw to a neutral position and give the disc space to move back into position (they make expensive guards that hold you in this position)
3. Keep wearing your guard
4. If you get sore, take 600mg of ibuprofen every 6 hours and put ice on the area to reduce internal swelling.
5. Relax and help ease it back in. Do not force your jaw open.
6. if after about 3 weeks you aren't opening more fully, see a tmj dysfunction specialist.
Good Luck

Answer 2

Don't know how old you are, but could it be your wisdom teeth coming in? They can cause soreness in your jaws.

Answer 3

VERY SIMPLE, MOUTH GUARDS AKA NIGHT GUARDS DO NOT WORK TO SOLVE YOUR PROBLEM, AS YOU YOURSELF CAN ATTEST TO.
WHAT YOU WILL REALLY BENEFIT FROM IS WEARING AN N.T.I. BRUXISM APPLIANCE. HAVE YOUR DENTIST MAKE YOU ONE. SEE THE LINKS BELOW: GOOD LUCK. MY PATIENTS TO WEAR THEIR NTI NEVER GRIND.