Its common to experience jaw stiffness, soreness, or discomfort after oral surgery, whether its wisdom teeth extraction, dental implants, bone grafts, or corrective jaw surgery. The jaw muscles, joints, and surrounding tissues work hard during dental procedures, and proper care afterward is essential for reducing discomfort and speeding up recovery.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we guide patients through every step of their healing journey. This guide provides post-procedure jaw care tips to support smooth, comfortable recovery following oral surgery.
Why Jaw Discomfort Happens After Oral Surgery
Prolonged mouth opening: Strains jaw muscles and ligaments.
Tissue inflammation: A natural response to surgery.
Swelling or bruising: Around the jaw, cheeks, or neck.
Pressure on the TMJ (temporomandibular joint): Leads to stiffness and discomfort.
Immediate Jaw Care After Surgery
?? Control Swelling Early
Apply a cold compress (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to the jaw and cheek area for the first 2448 hours.
?? Rest the Jaw
Keep talking to a minimum in the first 2448 hours.
Avoid excessive yawning or wide mouth opening.
Eat soft foods to reduce strain.
?? Elevate Your Head
Use extra pillows when lying down or sleeping to reduce swelling in the jaw and face.
Gentle Jaw Exercises for Recovery (Start After 4872 Hours or as Advised)
?? Perform Slow, Gentle Movements:
Open and close your mouth slowly as wide as is comfortable.
Move your jaw side to side gently.
Repeat 510 times, 34 times daily, gradually increasing range of motion over time.
Note: Always check with McLevin Dental before starting exercises, especially after bone grafts or complex surgeries.
Heat Therapy for Stiffness (After 48 Hours)
Use a warm compress or heating pad on the jaw for 1520 minutes at a time.
Helps loosen muscles, improve blood flow, and reduce stiffness.
Diet Tips for Jaw Comfort
Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods such as:
Mashed potatoes
Scrambled eggs
Smoothies (without straws)
Yogurt
Oatmeal
Avoid tough, chewy, or crunchy foods that strain the jaw.
What to Avoid During Jaw Healing
No chewing gum or tough meats.
Avoid excessive talking or wide yawning.
Do not bite into hard foods (apples, crusty bread).
No smoking or vaping, as both delay tissue healing.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 35 days, which can worsen swelling.
Pain Management for Jaw Discomfort
Use ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed for pain and inflammation.
Follow all medication instructions provided by McLevin Dental.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Call us if you experience:
Jaw stiffness that worsens instead of improving after 57 days.
Severe jaw pain not relieved by medication.
Difficulty opening your mouth more than a small amount.
Signs of infection: swelling with redness, fever, pus, or foul odor.
How Long Does Jaw Discomfort Last?
Mild stiffness: Improves within 37 days.
Significant soreness: Can take 12 weeks to resolve depending on the surgery type.
With regular gentle exercises, full range of motion typically returns in 23 weeks.
Long-Term Jaw Health After Surgery
If youre prone to jaw clenching or grinding, consider a nightguard to protect both your jaw and dental work.
Practice daily jaw relaxation exercises if stiffness persists.
Maintain regular checkups at McLevin Dental to monitor healing progress.
Trust McLevin Dental for Complete Oral Surgery Recovery Support
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we provide expert care not only during your oral surgery but also through every stage of recovery. Our detailed post-procedure guidance ensures your jaw heals comfortably and fully.
If you have concerns about jaw discomfort or need support during your recovery, contact our caring dental team. Together, well help you heal smoothly and protect your smile for the long run.