Maxillomandibular fixation, or jaw wiring, is often necessary following oral surgery. Doctors use wires, elastic bands, or special metal appliances to stabilize the upper and lower jaws so they remain together while the surgical site heals. If your dentist or primary care physician has recommended an oral surgery that calls for jaw wiring, here's what you should know. 

What to Expect From Jaw Wiring

When is jaw wiring necessary?

Wiring the jaw shut can correct a number of issues, including deformities, misalignments, and conditions like temporomandibular joint dysfunction. It may also be necessary following oral surgery to repair facial trauma. If you fractured your jaw, for example, wiring it will facilitate the healing process. 

How long does the jaw have to remain wired shut?

Because every patient is unique, there’s no set timeline for jaw wiring. Your provider will monitor your recovery closely and remove the device once the jaw has healed properly. In most cases, surgeons will remove the wiring within six weeks of the procedure. 

Can you eat while your jaw is wired shut?

For as long as your jaw is wired shut, you’ll have to maintain a liquid diet. For example, you can enjoy smoothies, milkshakes, drinkable yogurt, soup, nutritional shakes, and pureed snacks like applesauce. Cutting out solids may take some getting used to, but with a little meal preparation, it's possible to get all the calories and nutrients you need on a liquid diet. 

How do you maintain your teeth, tongue, and gums with jaw wiring?

Your oral hygiene doesn't have to decline just because your jaw is wired shut. You should still be able to brush a portion of every tooth. As for cleaning the surfaces that you can’t access, rinse with saltwater or mouthwash after every meal to prevent plaque and tartar from accumulating.

If you need to undergo an operation on your jaw, schedule a consultation at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska. Located in Anchorage, this practice is led by board-certified surgeons who are equipped to treat patients of all ages. From bone grafts and dental implants to wisdom teeth removal and facial restoration, they perform a broad range of procedures on-site. To request an appointment, reach out on their website or call (907) 561-1430.