How to Recover From TMJ Surgery
Temporomandibular Joint syndrome, or TMJ, affects the joints and muscles around the jaw. Those with TMJ sometimes experience chronic pain and may not be able to chew, bite or open their mouth without head or neck pain. Some people may need surgery to relieve their symptoms. If you opt for surgery after standard treatments don't work, follow these steps for a speedy recovery.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Antibiotics
- Prescription pain medication
- Oral therapy device
- Cold compress or ice pack
- Heating pad
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1
Take all antibiotics prescribed by your TMJ doctor so that you don't run the risk of infection. Also, take a prescribed pain medication only for the first few days. If your pain lasts longer than a few days, consult your doctor.
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2
Schedule time off from work for at least two weeks after surgery to give yourself time to rest. Some people may need more or less time. Consider asking your spouse, a friend or a neighbor to help out with child and pet care and with other household chores for the first couple of days so that you can get back on your feet.
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3
Stick to a strictly liquid diet for the first two weeks after TMJ surgery, and drink plenty of water. After the second week, start eating soft foods, such as scrambled eggs, oatmeal and yogurt, that are easy to chew without putting much strain on your jaw. You should be able to get back to your normal diet by about the fourth week.
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4
Use an oral therapy device that your doctor gives you. Use it five times a day for the first six months to help open your mouth wider and recover that much quicker.
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5
Apply an ice pack or cold compress to your swollen jaw for the first 24 hours, then apply moist heat on and off to help the swelling go away.
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6
Maintain a positive attitude and your recovery from TMJ surgery will be successful.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Get a muscle relaxant from your doctor if you are having muscle spasms. Follow a prescribed diet that your doctor recommends. Carry wire cutters with you wherever you go if your jaw is wired shut. It is good to have those handy in case of emergency. Go back to your doctor two weeks later to get your stitches out.
Bruises on your face may take about six weeks to heal. TMJ surgery offers no guarantees that you won't still feel jaw pain over your lifetime.
