Lock Jaw (Trismus) FAQ's at Ask The Dentist in Dental Health Directory

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FAQ: Lock Jaw (Trismus)

Oral Surgery Resources
Neuromuscular Dentists

Question:
I recently underwent extraction of my third molars and developed an infection at the site of #17. After 1 week of Cleocin 300mg 4x day no improvement was seen and a large painful abscess had developed on the left side of my face down to midline of my chin.

My oral surgeon drained the abscess (approx 30cc of pus) and my antibiotic has been changed to Zithromax. My overall health improved with the drainage and my significant pain was reduced with the abscess. Three days since the drainage I am still suffering from significant trismus that affects my ability to eat.

I can open my jaws slowly over time but with pain involved. Will my trismus most likely clear up with the infection or do I have to practice opening my jaws to clear this up?

Answer:
Yes, practice, but slowly. Some muscle relaxants may help and maybe even physical therapy. Talk to the surgeon who took the teeth out. Time should take care of it.

In the meantime, put cold compresses on, then stretch and massage, then put hot compress and massage. Do this a few times a day.

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