Weight Loss Jaw Wiring: Benefits, Selfcare, Risks & Cost

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What Is Weightloss Jaw Wiring?

fake teeth jaw wiring concept

Weightloss jaw wiring is a surgical procedure that involves wiring the patient’s jaw closed in order to restrict their food intake and help them lose weight.

This procedure is generally only used in cases of severe obesity, where other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have been unsuccessful.

During the procedure, the patient’s upper and lower jaw are wired together using wires or elastic bands.

This prevents the patient from opening their mouth wide enough to eat solid food, and they must consume liquids or pureed foods through a straw.

The wiring is usually left in place for several weeks or months, during which time the patient will lose weight as they are unable to consume as many calories.

Weightloss jaw wiring is a controversial procedure that is not widely used.

It is generally considered to be a last resort option for individuals who are severely obese and at high risk for obesity-related health complications, such as diabetes and heart disease.

There are several potential risks associated with jaw wiring, including choking, malnutrition, and difficulty speaking or swallowing.

It is important for patients considering this procedure to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider and to carefully consider all of their weight loss options before making a decision.

Reasons For Weightloss Jaw Wiring

If you have been struggling to lose weight, you may feel like you have tried everything.

You might have even resorted to extreme measures to achieve the results you want.

If that’s the case, then weight loss jaw wiring may be right for you.

Weight loss jaw wiring is a procedure that involves using a device called a maxillomandibular advancement device (MAD) to move your lower jaw forward.

This will make your face look slimmer and more streamlined, which can help improve your confidence as well as your overall appearance.

Weight loss jaw wiring has been shown to be an effective way of reducing weight in patients who are overweight or obese and want to improve their overall health.

It works by reducing the amount of food that people can eat at one time because their jaws are stretched out farther than normal—and when people eat less, they end up losing weight faster than usual!

By using this treatment method on yourself, it’s possible for an individual who is feeling depressed about their body shape or size to see positive results in just a few weeks’ time!

Other Reasons For Jaw Wiring

You may need to have your jaw wired shut for a number of reasons, including:

  • you’ve been in a traumatic accident and have injured, fractured, or broken your jaw
  • you have a jaw deformity
  • you have temporomendular jaw dysfunction
  • your jaw doesn’t align properly
  • you have other jaw-related dental issues that cannot be corrected with orthodontics

Your doctor will likely wire your jaw shut following surgery to correct one of these conditions. The wires will help your jaw heal properly the way a cast or other protective device would stabilize a broken bone elsewhere.

How To Prepare For A Jaw Wiring Appointment

closeup open mouth at the dentist

We’ve got all the information you need to prepare for your weight loss jaw wiring appointments.

First, make sure you have an appointment scheduled with our office.

You can schedule online or by calling us on the contacts given right below.

We’ll be able to tell you what time slots are available once we know whether or not you have insurance, and we’ll try to get you into the earliest possible appointment slot that fits your needs.

After making your appointment, make sure that you eat a healthy breakfast and drink plenty of water before coming in for your initial visit.

This will help ensure that your mouth is empty and ready for the procedure. If it takes more than one visit, we’ll send over instructions for what to eat before each visit so that you can avoid eating anything that could potentially cause bleeding during the procedure.

During your initial appointment, we’ll talk about how much weight you want to lose with jaw wiring and how long we think it will take (based on your goals).

We’ll discuss payment options and make sure that it’s something within your budget before setting up any additional appointments with us.

Jaw Wiring Procedure

Jaw wiring installation process

Jaw wiring is a surgical procedure that involves wiring the patient’s upper and lower jaw together in order to restrict their food intake and help them lose weight.

This procedure is generally only used in cases of severe obesity, where other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have been unsuccessful.

The jaw wiring procedure is usually performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical centre under general anaesthesia.

Here is a general overview of the steps involved:

  1. The patient is given general anaesthesia to put them to sleep and make them comfortable during the procedure.

  2. The surgeon makes small incisions inside the patient’s mouth to access the jawbone.

  3. The surgeon uses wires or elastic bands to secure the upper and lower jaws together. The wiring is typically left in place for several weeks or months.

  4. The incisions are closed with stitches, and the patient is taken to a recovery room to wake up from the anaesthesia.

After the procedure, the patient will be unable to open their mouth wide enough to eat solid food.

They will need to consume liquids or pureed foods through a straw and may need to use a feeding tube for a period of time.

The patient will also need to see their surgeon regularly to have the wiring adjusted or removed as needed.

It’s important for patients considering jaw wiring to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider and to carefully consider all of their weight loss options before making a decision.

Selfcare While Your Jaw Is Wired

While your jaw is wired, you must maintain good oral hygiene. This comprises:

  1. Using a mouth rinse or salt water (1 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of water) to clean your mouth occasionally during the day, such as after meals, in addition to brushing your teeth twice a day
  2. While your jaw is wired, you might also want to consider the following activities:

    • adding petroleum jelly or lip balm to keep your lips moisturized covering any wires that may be protruding out of your mouth with dental wax to prevent cuts and sores

    • regular examination of your mouth for any alterations

  3. If any of these conditions apply to you:

    • If you cannot feel pain and your lips or tongue are bleeding, if the wires come free, you may feel discomfort but be unable to feel your tongue or lips, which could cause you to vomit, get help right away if you’re having respiratory problems.

How To Eat With Wired Jaws

fake teeth biting an apple

One of the most difficult aspects of jaw wiring is meeting your nutritional requirements. 

You won’t be able to chew foods during this period, you’ll need to make sure you’re getting enough calories, vitamins, and minerals. Proper nutrition will aid bone healing, allowing you to recover faster.

You’ll probably drink the majority of your calories and nutrients during this time.

This will require more meal planning and preparation than you are accustomed to.

Diet Meal Ideas For Wired Jaws

If you have had your jaw wired shut as part of a weight loss procedure, it’s important to follow a diet that is high in nutrients and low in calories to help you lose weight while also maintaining good nutrition. Here are some ideas for meals that may be suitable for a wired jaw diet:

  1. Protein shakes or smoothies made with milk, protein powder, and a blend of fruits and vegetables.

  2. Soups made with pureed vegetables, beans, and lentils, or broth-based soups like chicken noodles or beef and barley.

  3. Puddings and custards made with milk, protein powder, and fruit.

  4. Pureed fruits and vegetables, such as mashed bananas, applesauce, or pureed sweet potatoes.

  5. Gelatin desserts made with sugar-free gelatin and a small amount of fruit.

  6. Pureed meats, such as chicken or turkey, mixed with pureed vegetables or mashed potatoes.

  7. Nut butters, such as peanut butter or almond butter, mixed with milk and a small amount of fruit.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to help plan a healthy diet while your jaw is wired shut. They can provide guidance on the types and amounts of food that are appropriate for your individual needs and goals.

Risks Of Weightloss Jaw Wiring

woman with toothache

There can be some risks of jaw wiring. These include:

  • Choking while your jaw is wired. This can occur for many reasons, including if you vomit or cannot breathe. You must carry wire cutters with you at all times to clip the wires in your mouth if choking occurs.
  • Bleeding from surgical incisions.
  • Tingling or numbness in your mouth from a nerve injured during jaw surgery. You may experience this for a short time or up to a few months.
  • Damaged teeth from the materials used to wire the jaw shut.
  • Infection following surgery, which can be treated with antibiotics and drainage.

Weightloss Jaw Wiring Cost In South Africa

The procedure of maxillomandibular fixation is known as jaw wiring.

This procedure joins the lower and upper jaw bones. Prices of jaw wiring differ from one practice to the next, but at Every Smile Dentistry jaw wiring for weight loss ranges between R 800 – R1 000.

Dr holding fake teeth and money

Frequently Asked Questions

You can always submit a contact request if you have more questions or email info@everysmile.co.za

aw wiring is a surgical procedure that involves wiring the patient’s upper and lower jaw together in order to restrict their food intake and help them lose weight. It is generally only used in cases of severe obesity, where other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have been unsuccessful.

The wiring is typically left in place for several weeks or months. The length of time will depend on the patient’s individual circumstances and weight loss goals.

While your jaw is wired shut, you will not be able to eat solid food. You will need to consume liquids or pureed foods through a straw and may need to use a feeding tube for a period of time.

Jaw wiring can help some people with severe obesity lose weight. However, it is not a guarantee and the amount of weight loss will depend on individual circumstances. It is important to work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to develop a healthy diet plan while your jaw is wired shut.

There are several potential risks associated with jaw wiring, including choking, malnutrition, and difficulty speaking or swallowing. It is important for patients to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before deciding to undergo this procedure.

Jaw wiring is generally considered to be a reversible procedure. The wiring can be removed once the patient has reached their weight loss goals or if they experience any complications.

Coverage for jaw wiring may vary depending on the patient’s individual insurance plan. It is important to check with your insurance provider to determine if this procedure is covered.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US

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oyisile njisaneoyisile njisane
16:08 05 Aug 24
I visited Every Smile Dentistry for the first time today and I am pleased with the service I received. The receptions was very warm and welcoming.I was attended to by Dr A Somtunzi who was also so friendly and welcoming. I had my teeth cleaned and a filling done. She gave a detailed explanation of what needed to be done.She was so gentle and I felt no discomfort at all.I’m happy with the work she did.Outside the excellent service, I think the thoughtful gesture of having ladies essentials in the rest room for everyone to use won my heart
lenyora magocobalenyora magocoba
06:19 05 Aug 24
Did a filling and washing of teeth. Amazing pain-free experience, user friendly from online booking to sitting on the dental chair. GQEBERHA branch treated me soft.
Lethu NgxokelaLethu Ngxokela
21:05 25 Jul 24
Mongezi MhambiMongezi Mhambi
15:59 24 Jul 24
Doreen StegmannDoreen Stegmann
13:43 22 Jul 24
Phelisa GcangaPhelisa Gcanga
15:02 09 Jul 24
Haven't gone to the dentist in years so I was really nervous about this visit but the atmosphere in that office? So calm and so friendly. I would recommend this place to everyone, Sthabile Aphiwe Majola is definitely the kind of dentist everyone wants to have✨✨.
nonkoliseko nkongononkoliseko nkongo
14:59 09 Jul 24
Best place ever,first the receptionist is so friendly and welcoming and the doctors are the best they make you feel comfortable before everything I would recommend them to anyone👌
Vuyisanani NgumbelaVuyisanani Ngumbela
14:38 01 Jul 24
The staff ,Dr Govender they are so friendly, they made me to feel very comfortable I would go there every time I want to do my teeth
Luvuyo MkonqoLuvuyo Mkonqo
13:56 11 Jun 24
Great experience, got a detailed consultation on braces from Dr Govender and Thembi. I like the fact that the Dr keeps explaining everything that she is about to do in the session. My daughter got a good lesson on how to brush and floss her teeth.
Emma EdwardsEmma Edwards
13:12 28 Mar 24
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Somtunzi and Dr. Govender at Every Smile Dentistry, and I am thoroughly impressed. Their professionalism and genuine care for patients made my entire root canal process a great experience. I'm so happy to have found my new dentistry home with them.
monde dyantyimonde dyantyi
11:10 16 Jul 23
I have been using Every Smile Dentistry for a while now. The service that I have received from the Doctors is very professional. Currently the only Dr that I use with them is Dr Somthunzi that is very patient with kids. Thank you for the excellent service Dr Somthunzi.
Janice MarriottJanice Marriott
13:54 15 Jun 23
If I could give 10 stars out of 5 - i would....the best experience i have had ever at a Dentis - Dr Somtumzi and her team are Angels-caring, professional, understanding and more....i am now 59 years old- had my 1st full set of upper dentures at the tender age of 19...which gives me 40 years of Denture Experience.....NEVER have i been treated with such dignity and grace - THANK YOU - in fact ....here are my 10 out of 5...**********
Malaika KuenaMalaika Kuena
11:40 10 Jun 23
Surgical tooth extraction was quick and painless. Thanks to Dr Mthunzi and her team in East London.
Bakhe GatyeniBakhe Gatyeni
13:09 02 Jun 23
Sesethu LeqelaSesethu Leqela
15:49 01 Jun 23
Today I went for braces consultation and the service that I received was beyond excellent,from the receptionist lady, dental nurse to Dr Zungu. He came up with many solutions on how we can tackle my issue and explained the process to the level of my understanding. Everyone at the branch is so welcoming 🙏 and super friendly/kind☺️. Please keep it up 💯!!!
Kimone BooysenKimone Booysen
08:29 16 May 23
The staff is sooo friendly. I have a big fear when it comes to dentists, but my dentist calmed me down so well and talked me through what she was going to do and what she was doing while busy. I had an infected tooth that she extracted. I felt no pain and it was over within seconds. I will definitely go back.
Soso MtiniSoso Mtini
14:01 21 Apr 23
We all dread appointments at the dentist but all my worries were put to rest by the lovely Dr Govender. She handled my tooth extraction with such great care and took time to explain the whole process. I appreciate her being so patient with me. Reception was warm and so helpful. Thank you to the whole team for being so professional and efficient.I can't wait to visit the dentist again!
ncediswa xeloncediswa xelo
11:24 12 Apr 23
Yesterday my daughter went for consultation. Wow she's lost of words explaining the Dr's friendliness, warm heart . It was our first visit I'm sold this is going to be our family dentist. Thank you all for your excellent customer service from the receptionist to assistants. Big up !!!!
Damaine JohnsonDamaine Johnson
09:13 20 Sep 22
Dentist knows what she's doing. I personally had my wisdom tooth extracted. Felt no pain at all during the extraction. Clean, professional and affordable. Thanks to the team at Every Smile Dentistry Selborne.
Leverne StrydomLeverne Strydom
17:54 26 Aug 21
I've been with the Dentistry for over two years now and I don't think I'll ever go to another dentist. Very clean and affordable too.I must say their customer service is exceptional!! From the receptionist to the Dr.I would recommend anybody to support Every Smile Dentistry!!
Bonisile NomanyaBonisile Nomanya
09:39 16 Oct 20
The service was exceptional! She explain every procedure throughout. She cleaned me and then removed the damaged one. I recommend Every Smile Dentistry.
Chesznokov ZunguChesznokov Zungu
11:31 20 Mar 20
I really appreciated the level of care and consideration from the staff. I experienced absolutely no pain and was kept comfortable at all times. I will definitely be going back🙂
Ziyanda CisheZiyanda Cishe
09:26 11 Apr 19
Today I had my teeth cleaned at Every Smile Dentistry. I just moved to East London so I was nervous about starting over with a new dentist. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming and the dentist was very gentle and attentive. I recommend Every Smile Dentistry to everyone looking for a pleasant experience at the dentist! 🙂
pumeza mnonopumeza mnono
13:47 12 Jul 24
I had a wonderful experience with them , their services are up to standard, i was welcomed by their friendly, professional n kind receptionist …big ups to dear you really know know how to serve people keep it up …if you’re looking for a good dentist in Umtata try them
Thobeka ThorhThobeka Thorh
12:46 03 Jul 24
The service was great, starting from the lady at the reception 👏 followed by 3 doctors namely Doc Ncube I had forgotten the others. But, their service was exceptional in terms of explaining, recommendations, etc.
Zethu NtloyaZethu Ntloya
15:08 29 Jun 24
The online booking system is probably useful in other branches but I’ve been disappointed twice in a space of less than a monthI initially made an online booking since they never seem to pick up their lines or get back to you ,I pulled strings to ensure I was there timeously and I was informed that “oh there must’ve been a miscommunication “ that meaning there was no communication about my appointment being canceledAnd the receptionist let me know minutes to my appointment I can’t be attended to.2nd appointment I made days in advance and I again pulled strings to honour my appointment today and as usual they sent the email reminder to remind me of my appointment at 9 am today …I leave work at 8 to make 8h30 for 9.Doors weren’t open by 9 and I called both their numbers to no reply and kept retrying and around to 10 …I make a call one more time just before I left cause I wasn’t sure what was happening .The receptionist answers and says “it’s a miscommunication issue.Our dr has an emergency and no one is coming in today “…no one cared to call and inform me of this as the expected 1st client of the day!A complete waste of my time twice !! I’ll escalate this
Omila MabandlaOmila Mabandla
12:16 27 Jun 24
Siphephelo GumbiSiphephelo Gumbi
23:14 23 Jun 24
Amazing service doctor was gentle and caring. Highly recommend.
Azile CisheAzile Cishe
11:47 30 May 24
Painless extraction, extremely professional service and great care taken. If you are in Umtata, give them a shout for all your dentistry needs...
Anodwa OvayoAnodwa Ovayo
13:03 15 Jan 24
What an amazing place, it's aesthetically pleasing, very clean and has a very welcoming receptionist. The staff are friendly and easy to communicate with. Initially, I was going to take my tooth out but was advised to go for a filling instead. Everything was explained and this showed me that the staff actually cares about their customers, this is great especially for people who are going to the dentist for the first time. I now feel good and more confident thanks to a great service from Every Smile Dentistry 🙏
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