Mandible Fractures

Mandibular fractures are among the most common maxillofacial injuries, requiring careful evaluation, diagnosis, and management to restore function and aesthetics while minimizing complications. Despite advancements in imaging and fixation techniques, the treatment of these fractures remains complex due to variations in fracture location, severity, and patient-specific factors. Proper surgical management is essential to prevent complications such as malocclusion, infection, and nerve injury. Depending on the anatomical site and characteristics of the fracture, both closed reduction with maxillomandibular fixation and open reduction with internal fixation using miniplates, compression plates, or reconstruction plates can be employed. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the classification, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment options for mandibular fractures, highlighting both historical and modern approaches. Special considerations are discussed for pediatric and edentulous patients, where factors such as growth potential and reduced bone density influence treatment planning. Additionally, common complications and their management strategies are outlined to optimize surgical outcomes and patient recovery.