In what situations does a “Mandibular Fracture” (Lower Jaw Fracture) occur during tooth extraction, and how is occlusion maintained during the healing process?

During the extraction of mandibular molars, especially deeply impacted wisdom teeth or teeth with large cysts around the root, if the jawbone is already structurally very thin and the surgeon applies excessively uncontrolled, lever-like force with the elevator, there is a risk of fracture of the mandibular angle (angulus mandibula). After this rare but serious complication occurs, it is vital that the patient’s dental alignment and bite balance (occlusion) are not disrupted during the healing process. To restore the jaw to its original form, the surgeon immediately intervenes intraoral or extraorally, fixing the fractured ends with titanium mini-plates and screws (open reduction) and securing the patient’s teeth to the upper jaw with arch bars and elastics (intermaxillary fixation) until the bone heals, ensuring the millimeter-precise preservation of the bite relationship.