Preparing for Orthognathic Surgery
A jaw is a set of bones holding a person’s teeth. The upper portion of the jaw is called the maxilla and does not move. The lower portion of the jaw is called the mandible. This part can move from side to side as well as up and down. The jaw is responsible for holding and manipulating food. Sometimes, people have mal-positioned jaws. This irregular positioning of the jaw parts can cause breathing trouble, speech impediments, and TMJ pain. To correct a faulty jaw position, a person can have Orthognathic Surgery. It’s important to prepare for surgery so the surgery and after-care will be easier and more productive. Use the following guidelines for this.
Preparing for jaw surgery includes following doctor’s orders as well as getting your home ready for post-operative care. If you smoke, quit as soon as you can before surgery. Smoking increases risks associated with surgery and can hinder your healing. Using tobacco products can worsen gum disease. Talk to your doctor about helping you find a plan that makes quitting smoking easier.
It’s essential that you plan for recovery time. Talk to your employer as soon as you know you will be having surgery. If you are in school, talk to the school administrator about time off from school. Many employers will give workers the time to recover if they are told ahead of time. FMLA will help protect your job in certain circumstances. Some patients are off from work or school for about 1 to 3 weeks. However, it will take about 9 to 12 months for your jaw to fully heal.
One of the best ways to prepare for surgery is to learn about recovery and have realistic expectations. The health care practitioner performing your surgery should go over this with you and give you literature to read. Also, ensure that you take all medications as prescribed. Don’t deviate from instructions unless you check with your surgeon or have adverse reactions.
Planning for a surgery takes organization and time. By doing this, you can concentrate on recovery after the Orthognathic Surgery. Being stressed only causes a body to take longer to heal. Having a peaceful environment to recovery in will facilitate the healing process. For more information, please contact website.