Surgeries may be used to correct jaw abnormalities and misalignments that might not be fully addressed with traditional braces or orthodontic appliances. Here, our Langley orthodontists discuss what to expect during recovery from orthodontic surgery and tips for success.
Orthodontic Surgery Recovery Timeline
Surgical orthodontics (or 'orthognathic surgery') corrects jaw irregularities to improve the ability to breathe, eat and speak. It can also alter your facial symmetry and aesthetics.
Since moving the jaws also moves the teeth, braces are always a part of jaw correction surgery. Braces ensure that the teeth are properly positioned after dental surgery.
After about two weeks of recovery (approximately 14 days after surgery), you'll likely be able to return to work or school and your normal activities. Once you are fully healed (about four to eight weeks after surgery), your orthodontist will 'fine-tune' your bite.
Your braces may be removed up to 12 months after surgery. Once they have been removed, you'll wear a retainer to maintain your new smile.
During recovery from orthodontic surgery, you must take great care and follow your orthodontist's instructions to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications.
Post-Operative Care
Immediately following surgery, dental staff will closely monitor you in a dedicated recovery area. Once the anesthesia has worn off and the oral surgeon gives you the go-ahead, you will either be discharged and can head home or moved to a hospital room for continued recovery.
The immediate focus after your procedure will be pain management, control of any swelling, and taking proper care of the wound. If you experience any nausea or grogginess due to the anesthesia, you can expect it to pass within a few hours.
The immediate post-surgery period involves managing pain and discomfort, controlling swelling, and ensuring proper wound care. Due to anesthesia, patients may experience some grogginess or nausea, but these effects usually subside within a few hours.
Pain Management
While some pain is expected after orthodontic surgery, it is usually managed with medication prescribed by your oral surgeon. By staying on top of your pain and taking the medication according to the prescription, you can alleviate pain before it becomes worse and promote a smoother recovery.
Diet Restrictions
Following your procedure, you will likely need to follow an adjusted diet. For minor orthodontic surgery, you may need to stick to soft foods like smoothies, soup or mashed potatoes to prevent unnecessary pain. Complex jaw surgery may result in the need for a liquid diet during the healing process. During this time, you may find it easiest to drink smoothies and soups through a straw, and meal replacement beverages might be recommended.
Once your oral surgeon gives you the go-ahead, you can begin slowly reintroducing solid foods into your diet.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent infection after oral surgery. You may be prescribed a mouthwash or instructed to use a saltwater rinse to clean your mouth and promote healing. Your surgeon will also provide instructions on resuming teeth brushing and how to do so carefully.
Tips For a Smooth Recovery
After orthodontic surgery, there are several ways that you can help ensure a smooth recovery while reducing pain, such as:
- Take it easy: Avoid physical activity and spend some time resting. Propping your head up can help reduce any swelling and bleeding.
- Use ice: Wrap ice packs in a towel and place them on your face for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Take your prescribed antibiotics: Take all prescribed pain medications and antibiotics as directed by your oral surgeon.
- Brush your teeth carefully: Avoid brushing teeth in the surgically treated area until fully healed. Brush any unaffected areas gently and consistently to keep your mouth clean.
- Control any bleeding: Gently but firmly biting down on a piece of gauze can help stop bleeding. If the bleeding won't stop or worsens, contact your oral surgeon immediately.
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Follow instructions: Your oral surgeon will provide detailed instructions to help you recover quickly and with minimal discomfort.
- Keep an eye out for issues: Look for signs of infection, such as redness, fever or swelling that lasts more than two days. If these occur, contact your oral surgeon or primary care physician or head to your nearest emergency room.
- Attend your follow-up visits: Go to all scheduled follow-up visits. These ensure that you are healing well and lower the risk of complications.
The Importance of Patience While Recovering From Orthodontic Surgery
For a successful recovery, you will need to remember to be patient, follow all instructions, and remain diligent with aftercare. While you may experience discomfort and frustration during the early stages of recovery, this will soon pass. By following the guidance of your oral surgeon and staying positive, you can achieve the best possible results of your procedure.