Your facial surgeon will prepare you well before your jaw surgery. This invasive procedure can improve your appearance and relieve your pain. It can also enhance your dental health. Here are the important details that your facial surgeon would want you to know before your jaw surgery.
The upper and lower jaws are important in completing one’s appearance, oral function, and speech. Jaw problems need jaw surgery. This procedure can align or enhance the structure of the jawbone. The facial surgeon will assess the condition of the jaw first. Discussing the different types of jaw surgery will follow before deciding which one will be the most suitable for the patient’s needs.
This procedure will need a suitable venue and facilities. An oral surgeon’s office or hospital can meet the needs of a jaw surgery. The doctor will discuss each step with the patient first. It is necessary to discuss any issues, including allergies or current medications.
The patient must start preparing a recovery room at home. Stock up on drinks, soup, or blended foods. A blender and juicer will be handy during this time. Ask the facial surgeon if it will be all right to take regular medications before the procedure. A relative or friend must take the patient home after the jaw surgery.
It will take at least one hour to complete the jaw surgery. The length of time will depend on the complexity of the patient’s case. General anesthesia is the common dental sedation method for this procedure. However, some patients may be fine with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation.
The facial surgeon will cut inside the mouth. The goal is to shape, add, or remove bone. This will depend on what the patient needs. The surgeon will be careful to make small incisions to reduce scarring. Surgical plates, screws, or rubber bands may be necessary to hold the jawbone in place after the invasive treatment. The surgeon may take healthy bone from other areas of the body, like the rib or leg.
Clinical studies show that jaw surgery is often successful. Any infections are rare. The facial surgeon will provide intravenous antibiotics to prevent infection. The doctor will also prescribe oral antibiotics that the patient must take seven to 10 days after jaw surgery. The surgeon may also prescribe a mild pain reliever with an anti-inflammatory medication. A nasal decongestant can reduce the swelling in patients who had upper jaw surgery.
It may take six to 12 weeks to recover from jaw surgery. Healing time will depend on the patient’s procedure. Seeing the facial surgeon again after healing will make sure that the top and bottom teeth align. Discussing braces at this point may be necessary to move the teeth to their correct spaces. Returning to work or school will be possible in 10 to 14 days. Complete jaw healing will take nine to 12 months.
Seeking the knowledge and skills of an experienced facial surgeon is key to a successful jaw surgery. Proper preparation and techniques can bring back your dental functions. It may take a while to recover, but it will be worth the wait. Working with your oral surgeon can help you achieve your dental health goals.
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