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Health and Fitness · November 15, 2020

6 Post- Operative Tips for Your Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery or orthognathic surgery is required when the upper and lower jaws do not connect properly or there is a misalignment in them. This improves the facial appearance as well as ensures that your teeth meet and function properly. Signs include difficulty in chewing, problems in speaking, open bite, TMJ pain, protruding jaw and even breathing problems.

There are many Charlotte Jaw Surgeons who offer effective jaw surgery. However, undergoing jaw surgery is not the end of it. There are some instructions that you have to follow after the surgery to heal faster. Here, we shall be talking about these very instructions.

  1. Swelling

The first thing that will surely occur after your jaw surgery is swelling. It will increase during the first week and decrease from then on. Your face will feel numb and nasal passages will be swollen. This will result in difficulty in breathing and congestion. Do the following:

  • Do not lie down flat
  • Keep your head elevated above the level of your heart.
  • Sleep with 3 pillows to keep your head as straight as possible or use a recliner.
  • Use ice packs for the first 48 to 72 hours. Many centers for Jaw Surgery in Charlotte NC and other places like Cornelius, Charlotte, and Huntersville prescribe medications to reduce the swelling.
  • For breathing issues, contact your oral surgeon. You may be suggested with expectorants or nasal sprays. Heat from a moist cloth can be sued but after 72 hours.
  1. Bleeding

Bleeding can occur from the incision in your mouth in the first 72 hours post your jaw surgery or TMJ Treatment in Cornelius NC. While upper jaw surgeries can lead to the trickling of blood through the nose, lower jaw surgery can have this due to the use of tubes during the surgery. If it does not stop, notify your oral surgeon. He or she will tell you what to do. Contact them right away.

  1. Bruising

Bruising and swelling are common post jaw surgery. You will see a change in colors from black or blue or purple to deep green to yellow. It may also change places in your skin as it dissipates. It will resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. However, it is recommended to report to your charlotte jaw surgeons as soon as possible if it does not go away after 2 weeks post your surgery.

  1. Activity

Do not undergo any kind of heavy physical activity during the first week post your jaw surgery in Charlotte NC. Avoid activities under the sun to prevent dehydration. Running, cycling, and lifting heavy things is not suggested. You may walk indoors and slowly resume other lighter activities after the first week. Resuming work slowly will help you heal better.

  1. Diet

During the first week, diet should be completely liquid. Chewing is not at all allowed. You can have smoothies, milkshakes, juice, and protein shakes as they provide calories and protein. Avoid smoking and drinking completely. Specialists like Dr Rolle, Oral Surgeon prescribe all that you have during your post-jaw surgery period.

  1. Hygiene

Charlotte jaw surgeons recommend what to use to maintain the hygiene of your mouth. Brushing will not be allowed during the first week but only rinsing with warm water with a pinch of salt. If at all, use a baby-sized toothbrush with soft bristles. Clean the teeth and adjacent gums carefully avoiding the sutures. Repeat this daily based on what your surgeon recommends. The sutures will start dissolving during the first week as the gum tissue begins healing. Avoid smoking at all costs as it may cause infection.

Keeping these 6 tips in mind will help you recover faster post your jaw surgery. It is a very simple procedure carried out by many renowned surgeons in North Caroline. All you have to do is book a consultation and you will have a fully functioning jaw in almost no time.