Jaw surgery is a standard medical procedure that is required after facial trauma. Whether it is from a car accident, work injury, or another event that results in harm to the face, trauma can cause lasting changes to the facial structure if not addressed promptly.
Patients who are facing jaw surgery can reduce their anxiety and achieve better outcomes by understanding how the surgery works and what recovery entails. Jaw surgery from an oral surgeon can restore both function and aesthetics, so there is no need to fear the process.
Jaw surgery can help with soft tissue injury around the site of the trauma, but it focuses on damage to the jawbone. From bone fractures to dislocation and tooth root issues, jaw surgery can address multiple issues.
Facial trauma can come in multiple forms, many of which are amenable to jaw surgery. The most common surgery procedures for the jaw include:
These are just a few potential challenges that jaw surgery can address after facial trauma.
Before jaw surgery, the oral surgeon will do imaging, such as a CT scan or X-ray, to determine the extent of the damage. Most patients will need to stop eating and drinking hours or a day before the procedure, but depending on how much of an emergency the facial trauma is, this may not be possible.
Once the patient is prepared, the doctors will use sedation to ensure that they are comfortable and relaxed for the procedure. Some jaw surgeries can be done while the patient is still awake, such as to place a dental implant for a lost tooth. However, others requiring more invasive care will typically involve the dentist putting the patient to sleep for their comfort and safety.
Following surgery, patients often remain under the care of their oral surgeon for one or more days to monitor their healing. Those who are permitted to go home can expect calls from their team to ensure that they are healing well and to answer any questions.
Facial bruising is common after jaw surgery, and many patients will need to stay on a liquid or soft food diet after the procedure. Sometimes, the patient may need to use a stabilizing device to keep the jaw properly positioned while it heals.
Jaw surgery places significant strain on the facial structure, and patients need to follow proper aftercare procedures to facilitate healing. Strategies that a person can use to recover successfully from jaw surgery after facial trauma include the following:
Sleep in a reclining position
This prevents blood from pooling in the head when sleeping horizontally. Keep the head in a raised position when possible throughout the day.
Use medication
Patients will typically be prescribed medication for pain and swelling following jaw surgery and traumatic injury. Take the medication on the assigned timetable, even if the swelling seems to be fading.
Use ice packs
Icing the swollen area can reduce pain and inflammation. Cover the ice pack in a towel or cloth, apply it gently to the external area around the pain for 15 minutes, then remove it for 15 minutes and repeat.
Rest
Recovering from jaw surgery and the initial trauma is a slow process, so do not try to rush it. It may take several weeks to begin feeling normal again, and during this time, patients may find it difficult to speak clearly or eat their favorite foods.
After facial trauma, jaw surgery is an effective way to restore function and ensure the long-term aesthetic of the face. However, the surgery can vary widely depending upon the initial trauma that caused the injury and the pathway to restoring the functionality of the jawbone and teeth.
Understanding how jaw surgery works and the process for recovering quickly and completely can help you go into the procedure with confidence and less anxiety. Our team can help you prepare for jaw surgery and learn how to cope with facial trauma so you can return to your normal lifestyle as soon as possible. Contact our office to learn more about jaw surgery, ask any questions, or schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.centralcoastoms.com or call Wilson Oral Surgery at (805) 910-1213 for an appointment in our Santa Maria office.
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