What Is the Fastest Way to Recover From Jaw Surgery
Posted on 9/16/2024 by Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery
After jaw surgery, you must care for yourself to facilitate quick healing. Avoid strenuous activities and rest the day at home for a fast recovery. Your jawbones are wired together and have not healed yet. Driving, bending, or lifting could dislodge blood clots and cause bleeding. It is essential to increase your activity level gradually. Below are some tips to help you heal faster.
[[[2:Watch What You Eat]]]You need to limit your food choices to minimize jaw movement. For the first 10 days after surgery, stick to a liquid diet. If you want to eat fruits like apples or mangoes, blend them for easy consumption. Consider taking food supplements to increase your calorie intake.
From days 11 to 21, you can start eating soft foods that require minimal chewing, like eggs, soft pasta, and mashed potatoes. While you can begin to chew, be cautious as you are still recovering.
Use Cold and Hot Compresses to Stop Swelling
It is normal to experience swelling and bruising after jaw surgery. To reduce swelling, apply ice to your jaw for 30 minutes, then rest for 15 minutes before reapplying. Continue this for the first 24 to 48 hours. If you notice pus or develop a fever, contact your surgeon immediately, as it could be a sign of infection.
Elevate Your Head for Blood Flow
To reduce facial swelling, keep your head elevated above your heart. This promotes proper blood flow. Avoid lying flat while recovering. During the day, sit or recline to maintain blood flow. At night, use 2 or 3 pillows to keep your head elevated.
Observe Good Oral Hygiene
Even after jaw surgery, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial to keep your surgical wound clean and infection-free. For the first week after surgery, gently brush your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and ensure the bristles only touch your teeth and braces.
Talk to our dentists today to learn more about healing after oral surgery. Call or email our office, and we will set up an appointment.
After jaw surgery, you must care for yourself to facilitate quick healing. Avoid strenuous activities and rest the day at home for a fast recovery. Your jawbones are wired together and have not healed yet. Driving, bending, or lifting could dislodge blood clots and cause bleeding. It is essential to increase your activity level gradually. Below are some tips to help you heal faster.