Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics with our pristine doctors and staff in Arlington Heights, IL can help guide you along the way with your oral health, such as tips for a speedy recovery after jaw surgery.
Tips
The body heals itself when you sleep, which is why doctors recommend 7-9 hours of sleep a night for adults. Rest and sleep are exactly what your jaw needs when recovering from jaw surgery for a speedy recovery. Make sure to request time off before your appointment and speak with your surgeon to see how many days you will need to rest.
Managing Inflammation
You can use ice packs pressed against your cheeks to help with swelling. Your surgeon might also prescribe painkillers, but some over-the-counter painkillers are meant to subside swelling, inflammation, and throbbing, such as Advil. Ask your surgeon how many times a day to take when recovering. When your jaw isn’t inflamed, it can also be easier for you to rest, hence a quicker recovery.
Water
Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to help with recovering your jaw from surgery. We highly recommend ice water because the ice can help to swell. Water also helps keep your body hydrated, and when your body is hydrated, the better it is at healing. Chapped lips are also a side effect after jaw surgery, so water will help keep your lips moist.
Soft Foods
Soft foods are a must when recovering from jaw surgery. Hard foods are harder for your jaw to chew, so hard foods are a hard no when recovering from jaw surgery. Soft foods will allow your body to rest. Some soft foods include smoothies, yogurt, ice cream, soup, apple sauce, eggs, mashed potatoes, etc.
Meal Prep
Going grocery shopping for soft foods beforehand will definitely help you recover quicker. After surgery, you need to rest and are not going to be in the mood to go to the grocery store, especially if you are in pain. It is key to plan ahead, meal prep, and have soft food snacks at hand while you rest.
Contact Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics in Arlington Heights, IL!
Not sure if jaw surgery is right for you? Need a referral to an oral surgeon? Have a question about orthodontics? Contact us or request an appointment for your consultation!