After TMJ Surgery

Thank you for selecting our services for your oral health care needs.  Some discomfort should be expected following surgery.  To ensure the most comfortable and speedy recovery, we have put together some information to guide you through the next few days.

YOUR MOUTH WILL NOT BEEN WIRED SHUT

Bleeding

Some bleeding may occur around the incision site and is a normal healing process.  Dr. Gallagher will be happy to see you in our office for any concerns if needed.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. The majority of swelling occurs on the second and third days after surgery.  ** Remember that swelling is a natural healing process. It is your body’s way of protecting the surgical area and bringing nutrition to the healing area.

Bruising

In some instances, bruising can occur near the surgical site or around the ear(s), neck or jaw.  This is a normal, healthy response and there is nothing to be concerned about.  It is your body’s way to “recycling” red blood cells.

Numbness

Local anesthesia is administered during surgery.  Also, numbness around your ear(s) and cheek area may last for several weeks and/or months.  The numbness will gradually dissipate over the following weeks/months postoperatively.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids.  A NO CHEW soft food diet is to be consumed for 3 months postoperatively or until instructed by Dr. Gallagher.  Some soft food ideas are: ice cream, yogurt, pudding, protein milkshakes, overcooked pastas/vegetables, soups, macaroni and cheese, eggs, pancakes, mashed potatoes, ground meats, baked fish, chopped BBQ, etc.  Be sure to eat before taking any of the prescribed medications to prevent an upset stomach. 
Any chewing WILL damage your joint(s)!!!

Sutures

The sutures used in the surgical site(s) will be removed by Dr. Gallagher 2 weeks after surgery.

Incision Care

The only necessary care will be to wash your hair and face daily and keep ointment applied on the incision site(s) for the first 2 weeks. Avoid excessive sun exposure to the surgical site to prevent visible scaring.

Exercise

Light to moderate exercise the day following surgery will help reduce swelling and help you feel well.  Get up, move around, take a shower, and participate in normal activities as much as possible.  The quicker you get back into your regular routine the better you will feel.

Sleeping

Continue with your regular sleeping habits. You will not damage any area by sleeping on it.

Prescriptions

You were prescribed antibiotics, anti-swelling medicine and a pain medication (take pain medication as needed). Continue taking antibiotics and anti-swelling medications as directed and until they are all gone to help promote healing. Again, always make sure have eaten prior to taking your medication.

Jaw Exercises

You will be instructed to stretch and exercise your jaw 3-4 times each hour, starting the day of surgery and continuing throughout your recovery until a full range of motion is reached.  Your goal will be to open at least a 40mm.  Opening and stretching (up/down or left/right) your jaw muscles will NOT damage your joints or surgical site. 
*The only way to damage your joint(s) (with the exception of trauma/accident/injury to your jaw) at this point would be to “chew” during the first 3 months following your surgery.

Temperature

Temperature elevation can occur following oral surgery.  If your temperature rises above 100OF, take a fever reducer such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) every 4-6 hours.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing.  Brush your teeth!

Reminders

• NO SMOKING (THIS WILL DRASTICALLY SLOW YOUR HEALING PROCESS).
• NO ALCOHOL UNTIL ALL MEDIATIONS ARE FINISHED!!
• NO CHEWING - NO CHEWING - NO CHEWING - STRETCH AND OPEN YOUR JAW!!!

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL AT 512-258-1636