After Jaw Surgery

Most of our patients will return to school or work one week after their surgery. Depending on the physical stress involved with your job and the extent of your surgery, you may require more time to recuperate. Your oral surgeon will assist you in making that decision.

We strongly suggest avoiding moderate to severe physical activities until your oral surgeon permits it. However, walking and other light activities are beneficial for faster healing.

Oral hygiene is of critical importance after jaw surgery. Not maintaining appropriate dental hygiene can drastically increase your chance of infection and cavities. A small soft toothbrush should be use to access all areas of your mouth, making sure that your gums are healthy.

A soft diet will be suggested for the first week after surgery, returning slowly to a regular diet a month after surgery. Supplement drinks such as Boost or Ensure are sometimes needed to ensure appropriate energy intake.

One week after jaw surgery, your oral surgeon will provide you with jaw exercise to regain your initial jaw mobility.

The amount of swelling that occurs varies from patient to patient. The swelling is usually worse on the second day of surgery and will decrease after. Most of the swelling is usually not noticeable within 4-5 weeks after surgery.

Dr. Martin will want to see you one week after your surgery to check your bite and monitor the healing. Very rarely are we going to do a wire adjustment at that time. However, elastic wear will be re-enforced to guide your jaws and teeth in place.