Do elastics permanently move your jaw?

You may think that no little rubber band can move an entire jaw, but the truth is elastics are effective and fast when properly worn and prescribed. In only a few months, we can significantly affect your jaw movement in the correct direction.

Do you need elastics after jaw surgery?

Tobacco and smoking can cause severe healing problems. In the past, and occasionally at the present time, teeth must be kept together with wires or heavy elastics after surgery. This allows the jaw bones to be held still while healing.

How long does a wired jaw take to heal?

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 happens after jaw wired shut?

You’ll experience some discomfort following jaw surgery and subsequent jaw wiring. You should not experience pain during the procedure because of anesthetics. Your doctor may prescribe a pain reliever to use following your surgery. You may experience swelling following the surgery as well.

When do elastics come off after jaw surgery?

At one week the swelling should be starting to come down. You should still be on a liquid diet at this point. Your doctor will change out your rubber bands and answer any questions you may have. At two weeks after surgery, you will begin to take off and put on the rubber bands yourself.

What is the purpose of rubber bands after jaw surgery?

Usually some types of elastics or small rubber bands are used during the time immediately after surgery. These rubber bands are placed around small lugs or hooks on the braces or arch wires. The purpose of these elastics is to help train you to bite into the new jaw position and to limit jaw function.

Does having your jaw wired shut hurt?

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.

Can you speak with your jaw 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.

Why do they put elastics on braces after surgery?

Usually some types of elastics or small rubber bands are used during the time immediately after surgery. These rubber bands are placed around small lugs or hooks on the braces or arch wires. The purpose of these elastics is to help train you to bite into the new jaw position and to limit jaw function.

How often should I use elastics after wisdom teeth removal?

New elastics should be used each day as they will become stretched after being worn for a short period. As with any surgical wound it is extremely important for you to keep all areas inside your mouth clean after surgery. You should brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after each time that you eat.

How long will my jaw be wired shut after jaw surgery?

Your jaw may be wired shut for six weeks following jaw surgery, so your jaw bones can heal. Risks of wiring the jaw shut There can be some risks of jaw wiring.

How many times a day should you eat after jaw wiring?

You should plan to eat up to six small meals each day. Jaw wiring occurs after some types of jaw surgery or following a traumatic injury to your jaw. You may have your jaw wired for up to six weeks while recovering and need to plan, prepare, and consume nutritious meals during that time.