What can you eat when jaw wired shut?

Eat soups that have been put in a blender (pureed), milkshakes, baby food, or any foods you that you can blend until they are smooth liquid. You can puree vegetables or fruits in a blender or food processor. Put milk or soy beverage with yogurt or ice cream and fruit in a blender to make milkshakes.

Can you talk if your jaw is wired shut?

You may find it difficult to talk and be understood the first week or so after fixation. Be patient and try not to be frustrated if people cannot understand you. Talk as slowly and as distinctly as you can. Carry a pen and pad for especially difficult times, but do not become too dependent on them.

How long does jaw wired last?

Your jaws will be wired together approximately six to eight weeks. This is the time it takes for the bones to heal in a good, strong union. During the time your jaws are wired together, you will find eating, talking and other daily activities somewhat difficult.

What can you eat when jaw wired shut? – Related Questions

How do I clean my teeth with a wired shut jaw?

Brush your teeth with a small, soft bristled toothbrush. Always brush in front of a mirror, making sure that the wires and arch bars are clean and shiny. Use a spoon handle to hold your cheek out so that you can see all the way to the back, making sure these areas are free of food.

How painful is having your jaw wired shut?

Jaw wiring isn’t painful. Your doctor will wire your teeth together while you are still under general anesthesia. Plus, during recovery, you may actually experience post-operative numbness because a lot of the nerves in the lips, chin, and gums may still need to heal.

When should I cut my jaw wired?

Only cut the wires if you are having severe trouble breathing or you are choking. Use your finger to hold your lip away from your teeth. Cut the wires that hold your jaw shut. Do not cut the arches or braces.

What happens if you have to throw up with your jaw wired shut?

If anything comes out, it will be liquid as well—the stomach contents can escape around the teeth and will come out of your nose and mouth. It is not recommended that you try to cut your wires or elastics when you think you are going to vomit.

Do you always have to have your jaw wired shut after jaw surgery?

The good news is that a lot of patients don’t need to have their jaws wired shut after surgery. While you are under anesthesia, your surgeon will use titanium plates and screws to secure and splint the jaw bones in their new position. New bone will grow around these plates and screws and don’t need to be removed.

How long does jaw surgery take to heal?

Initial jaw healing typically takes about six weeks after surgery, but complete healing can take up to 12 weeks. After initial jaw healing — at about six weeks — your orthodontist finishes aligning your teeth with braces. The entire orthodontic process, including surgery and braces, may take several years.

How long is bed rest after jaw surgery?

We generally request limited “Bed Rest” exercise for the first week following surgery. The plastic splint should be worn at all times during exercise for the first 4-6 weeks after your jaw surgery. You should NOT participate in any exercise or sports that may involve hitting your jaw.

Does your face change after jaw surgery?

Jaw surgery to correct an over-bite is often undergone to correct a “gummy smile.” The corrective surgery for this moves the jaw backwards and significantly alters the appearance of the chin, giving it a stronger, more pronounced look on the face.

How do you sleep after jaw surgery?

Sleep with your head elevated on two pillows or in a comfortable recliner chair for the first week following surgery. Numbness in the lower jaw and chin will occur after a lower jaw fracture or surgery and in the upper jaw and along the nose and lip following an upper jaw fracture or surgery.

How can I speed up recovery from jaw surgery?

5 Tips to Speed Your Recovery After Jaw Surgery
  1. Drink your meals.
  2. Add easy-to-chew foods.
  3. Keep pain under control.
  4. Take care of your lips.
  5. Give yourself the recovery time you need.

How long will my face be swollen after jaw surgery?

You must anticipate a large degree of swelling over your cheek area as well as down into your neck. The swelling is maximal at Day 4 and will slowly subside after 2 weeks. There is still about 10 to 20% of swelling that can maintain up to 2 months after surgery.

Is it hard to breathe after jaw surgery?

Your nasal passages will also be swollen resulting in congestion and difficulty breathing through your nose. Over-the-counter decongestants, expectorants and nasal sprays will help. A steam humidifier placed next to you at all times will also make you feel better.

What happens if you sneeze after jaw surgery?

Blowing of the nose: Do not blow your nose or sneeze with your mouth closed for at least 1 week following upper jaw surgery. This can cause air to be forced into your cheeks and lower eyelids with immediate severe swelling. A nasal spray will be provided to help decongest the nasal passages.

How long should I take off work after jaw surgery?

Patients can typically return to work or school approximately 2 weeks after corrective jaw surgery. Some patients will be able to return sooner in particular if only one jaw requires correction.

How do you shower after jaw surgery?

BATHING OR SHOWERING

Jaw surgery usually involves surgical incisions that are in the mouth. If this is your case, then you can shower, take a bath, or shampoo your hair, immediately after your surgery, as soon as you feel like it.

Do you go to ICU after jaw surgery?

You will still be able to eat, speak and clean your teeth. In this case, it is routine to transfer you to intensive care or the high dependency unit for 24 hours before being returned to the ward. Jaw wiring is usually in place for around six weeks.