Your Treatment Plan
Orthognathic surgery and related treatments can take time, often over a year. Starting treatment and not completing it could leave you with more problems than you have now. So you need to commit to the process before treatment begins. Your plan will likely include a time frame for each stage of treatment. Typical stages and time frames are shown here:
Stage |
Duration |
Description |
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan |
1-4 weeks; |
- Exams and tests
- Surgeon and orthodontist consult together
- Meet with team members to discuss overall plan
|
Preparation for Surgery |
12-18 months |
- Dental work
- Orthodontic work (braces) and regular checkups
- Meet with surgeon to prepare for surgery and recovery
- Quit smoking (if you smoke)
|
Surgery and Hospital Recovery |
1-3 days |
- Surgery
- Observation in the hospital while you recover from anesthesia and get started on a liquid diet
|
Recovery at Home |
2-6 weeks |
- Rest at home; on a soft diet for 2 or more weeks
- Postoperative exam by surgeon
- Gradual return to normal eating and normal oral hygiene
|
Postsurgical Treatment |
6-12 months |
- Complete orthodontic treatment
- Follow-up with surgeon as needed
- Routine dental care
- Other dental care, if needed
|
If You Have Questions
Be sure you understand what each step involves, and what you can and can't expect from treatment. Keep in mind that treatment plans can differ depending on your jaw problem and factors such as your age and oral health. Your healthcare provider can answer your questions and address your concerns.
Glick & Woods Dentistry is Tullahoma’s most popular dental experience since 1985. Please call us at 931.455.3917 or fill out our online Request an Appointment form to arrange your consultation.