Patient Guide
Jaw Surgery Care
General care guidance before and after jaw surgery.
Before the Procedure
- Impacted wisdom teeth usually need to be removed months before jaw surgery — the exact timing is set by your doctor.
- Orthodontic treatment before and after jaw surgery plays an important role in the outcome.
- For digital impressions, enough time must have passed since your last orthodontic wire adjustment.
- Prepare required documents — lab tests, studio photographs, pre-surgery clearance letter, 3D CT scan, cephalometric and OPG X-rays, and orthodontic molds — as instructed.
- Let your doctor know about any underlying condition, medication, drug or food allergy, prior hospitalization, or specific concern.
- Significant tooth decay or tartar buildup should be assessed and treated before surgery if needed.
- For digital treatment planning, arriving on time for impressions and preparation is essential.
- As your doctor advises, avoid herbal infusions, ginseng, heavy tea consumption, and tobacco in the days before surgery.
After the Procedure
- After jaw surgery, a period of rest and limited activity at home is needed.
- Avoid strenuous activity for several weeks; light walking can usually begin once your doctor approves.
- A soft, blended, liquid diet matters a great deal. Avoid chewing hard food until your doctor allows it.
- Oral hygiene should be done carefully, without direct pressure on the wounds.
- Take medication, antibiotics, and mouthwash only as your doctor directs.
- Extended mouthwash use without your doctor's direction isn't recommended.
- For pain, take your prescribed medication as directed, and let the clinic know if pain is severe.
- A cold compress for the first two days, and from day four a warm compress if your doctor advises, can help reduce swelling.
- Use a soft toothbrush and interdental brush carefully to keep your mouth clean.
- Keep up regular follow-up with your jaw surgeon, orthodontist, and physiotherapist if needed, on schedule.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol during recovery.
When to Contact the Clinic
Contact the clinic immediately if you experience severe pain, fever, unusual bleeding, or any other concerning symptom.
- Severe or unbearable pain
- Fever, pus discharge, or bad odor
- Heavy bleeding
- Shortness of breath or serious difficulty swallowing
- Unusual increase in swelling
- Severe difficulty opening or closing the mouth beyond what's expected
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is for general awareness and early post-treatment care only. It does not replace your doctor's direct instructions, an in-person examination, or follow-up care. If you notice any unusual symptoms, please contact the clinic.
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