Corrective jaw surgery can effectively achieve a healthier and more functional jaw alignment. After surgery, you’ll notice that your teeth and jaws will work together so you can improve your ability to speak properly and chew efficiently. However, as with any surgery, you should expect some time to recover.
You might feel nervous about how you’ll feel after jaw surgery. Rest assured, with proper care, you’ll make a full and healthy recovery. There are certain things you can do at home to help. Here are some tips as you recover from your jaw-related procedure.
1. Use Ice for Pain and Swelling
Cold compresses, bags of ice, or even sealed frozen food bags can provide relief from pain and help prevent swelling. Gently place the cold object of your choice on areas of your jaw that are painful or uncomfortable.
2. Take Medications as Recommended
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon might prescribe medication for the discomfort you’ll feel following your jaw surgery. Make sure to follow recommendations for switching to over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories to continue to manage pain.
3. Ask Someone to Help Around the House
For the first few days after your procedure, having a friend or loved one help you around the house will be helpful. They can monitor your progress, help prepare meals, and do any housekeeping you can’t do while you’re recovering.
4. Eat Soft Foods and Liquids
It sounds strange to hear the recommendation to “drink your meals,” but following surgical jaw procedures, this is the easiest way to make sure you get the nutrition you need. Consider protein shakes, smoothies, soups, purees, and even baby food.
5. Stay Hydrated After Jaw Surgery
Because eating food will be more difficult following your jaw surgery, so it’s even more important to stay hydrated as you recover. Make sure to drink plenty of water each day throughout your recovery period.
6. Don’t Forget Your Lips
Sometimes recovery from jaw surgery requires keeping your mouth open so your jaw can properly heal. This might cause your lips to feel dry and cracked. Staying hydrated will help, and so will using a lip balm or moisturizer.
Jaw Surgery with Dr. Robert B. Peak
Dr. Peak is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who uses advanced technology through every stage of the corrective jaw surgery process. He wants all of his patients to achieve more functional, more attractive, and healthier jaws and teeth. Learn more about corrective jaw surgery with Dr. Peak and his team.