After dental procedures like wisdom tooth extraction, dental implant placement, or bone grafting, its common to experience jaw tightness, soreness, or limited mouth opening. This happens because the jaw muscles and jointsparticularly the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)can become strained during surgery due to prolonged mouth opening or muscle tension.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we believe that recovery isnt just about the surgical site but also about helping the entire mouth and jaw return to comfort and function. This blog shares effective, gentle jaw relaxation techniques after dental surgery to support healing and improve comfort.
Why Jaw Tightness Happens After Dental Surgery
Prolonged mouth opening: Stretches jaw muscles and ligaments.
Tissue inflammation: Natural swelling in the area can put pressure on the TMJ.
Muscle guarding: The bodys instinct to protect the area leads to muscle tension.
Stress and clenching: Anxiety before or after surgery can trigger unconscious jaw clenching.
How Long Does Jaw Stiffness Last?
Mild jaw stiffness typically improves within 3 to 5 days.
Moderate stiffness can take 1 to 2 weeks to fully resolve.
Without gentle exercises, some patients may experience longer-lasting tightness.
Jaw Relaxation Techniques for Healing
?? Warm Compress Therapy (After 48 Hours)
Apply a warm, moist towel or heating pad to the jaw area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
Repeat 3 to 4 times a day to relax the muscles and improve blood flow.
?? Gentle Jaw Stretching Exercises
Begin after 48 to 72 hours or once swelling begins to subside.
Open and Close Slowly:
Open your mouth gently as wide as comfortable, then close slowly.
Repeat 5 to 10 times, several times a day.
Side-to-Side Movements:
Move your lower jaw slowly to the left, then right.
Hold each side for 5 seconds, repeating 5 to 10 times.
Forward Movement:
Gently slide your lower jaw forward and hold for a few seconds.
Always stop if pain increases, and consult with McLevin Dental if unsure.
?? Jaw Massage
Use fingertips to apply gentle circular pressure along the jawline, cheeks, and temples.
Massage for 2 to 3 minutes to help relieve tension.
?? Practice Deep Breathing
Stress increases muscle tension, including in the jaw.
Try inhaling deeply for 4 counts, holding for 4 counts, and exhaling slowly for 6 to 8 counts.
Repeat 3 to 5 times to reduce overall tension.
Additional Comfort Tips
Avoid chewy, crunchy, or tough foods during recovery.
Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing.
Use ice packs (first 2448 hours) to reduce swelling before switching to heat.
Sleep with your head elevated to minimize pressure on the jaw.
What to Avoid
Avoid opening your mouth excessively (like yawning wide or biting into large foods).
Skip hard chewing, gum, and sticky candies.
No aggressive jaw movements until the muscles loosen naturally.
Avoid resting your chin on your hand, which strains the jaw joint.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Call us if you experience:
Jaw pain that worsens after 5 to 7 days
Lockjaw (inability to open the mouth more than a few millimeters)
Clicking, popping, or grinding noises with pain
Swelling that increases rather than improves
Long-Term Jaw Health Tips
Consider a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth, which can worsen jaw discomfort.
Maintain regular dental checkups to monitor TMJ health.
Continue gentle stretching exercises beyond healing to maintain flexibility.
Trust McLevin Dental for Complete Healing Support
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we care about every aspect of your comfort, not just the surgical site. Our team is here to guide you through a full, stress-free recovery, including relief from jaw stiffness and muscle tension.
If you have concerns about jaw discomfort after dental surgery or need tailored advice for your recovery, reach out to our experienced team. Together, well help you heal comfortably and keep your smile and jaw healthy.