What happens if you chew with a broken jaw?

Except for nondisplaced hairline or stable fractures, most mandible fractures result in swelling and pain with chewing and opening and closing the mouth. The teeth may not meet properly, and it may not be possible to fully open or close one’s mouth.

How long until you can eat after a broken jaw?

After 2 weeks you can commence a non-chew food diet. The rule of thumb is to eat food that you can easily squish between your fingers and anything that does not make any noise(ie hard or crunchy foods). Examples include: mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, fish and over-boiled/soft pastas cut into small pieces etc.

How much weight do you lose when you break your jaw?

You may lose 5–10\% of your normal body weight while jaws are wired shut. You will be limited to a liquid diet until your jaws are no longer tightly held together. It is especially important to drink adequate amounts of fluids, 3–4 liters per day.

What should I eat with a broken jaw?

Fruits and Vegetables

• 125 ml (1/2 cup) of cooked or canned fruit blended with fruit juice, ice cream or pudding.
• 125 ml (1/2 cup) of well-cooked vegetables blended with broth, sauce or cream soup.
• 125 (1/2 cup) of fruit or vegetable juice.
• 1 small jar (128 g) of baby food vegetables thinned with margarine or sauce.

Can you speak with a broken jaw?

Broken Jaw Complications Although many patients with a jawbone fracture often have temporary problems of eating (chewing) and talking, these complications usually resolve over time (days to weeks) with no further complications with appropriate treatment.

Can you talk 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 can’t I chew after jaw surgery?

Eating and drinking can be painful after jaw surgery. Chewing regular food is harder because of the wires, metal plates or elastics in your mouth. Chewing food after surgery can be painful and slow down your healing. After surgery, it is very important to eat and drink enough to help you heal.

What are considered soft foods?

What are some soft foods to eat after oral surgery (or otherwise)?

• Smoothies and shakes.
• Yogurt, pudding and ice cream.
• Avocado.
• Smooth soups, or those with very soft chunks.
• Mashed potatoes, or a soft baked potato without the skin.
• Cooked fruits, like applesauce.
• Ripe fruits, like bananas or peaches without the skin.

How long is your mouth wired shut after jaw surgery?

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.

What can I eat for breakfast with a broken jaw?

Choose high-calorie beverages for breakfast, such as milk and juice, to maximize your calorie intake and save low-calorie coffee and tea for when you can eat solid food. A high-calorie breakfast meal for a broken jaw may include 1 cup of blended hot cereal, thinned with 1 cup of whole milk or cream and sweetened with 2 tbsp. of brown sugar.

How long does it take to recover from a broken jaw?

Expect at least six weeks recovery time for a fractured jaw. And because opening your mouth will (and should) be minimal if the break is serious, your diet will have to temporarily consist in liquids through a straw.

What does it mean when your jaw is broken?

Your jaw is comprised of two cooperative bones: the upper jaw, called the maxillary; and lower jaw, known as the mandible. The mandible handles most of your mouth’s mechanics, opening and closing the mouth and also allowing for the chewing of food. A cracked or broken bone is referred to as a fracture.

Is it normal to have pain in your jaw after injury?

Recovery and outlook. However, you’re more likely to have recurring joint pain in your jaw after your injury. This is a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder, which is also referred to as TMJ disorder. People who have dislocated their jaw may have an increased risk of a future dislocation as well.