We chit-chatted about the past and I mentioned that (in passing) that it was discussed and recommended that I have my lower jaw broken, pulled forward and reset. It would have to be wired shut for 6 weeks, meaning 6 weeks of a total liquid diet. Typically, patients of this surgery lose 9 to 20 lbs. At the time, I weighed only 103. They felt it would just be too unsafe for me to risk the surgery.
Dr. D said if I would consider the surgery (often covered by insurance as a preventative measure against TMJ), that he would put my braces back on for free. No money. Nada. (as a side note, he is not an oral surgeon and has nothing to gain from me having the procedure).
I said I would think about it. Meanwhile, Buddy had spacers put in and the next visit we have, will be braces city! Oh! And, we also got a 10% discount on Buddy's braces because I am a former patient! ETW do love a bargain! :-)
I'm on the fence about the mouth being wired shut thing. I could stand to lose a few pounds and Lord knows I'm used to be sliced and diced by surgeons. I think, in the long run, it'll depend on whether our insurance will cover it fully or partially - and if only partially, how much of that "partially" will be our dealio.
I would love to have my teeth aligned again and have no more jaw pain....I tend to grind my teeth at night and often clinch it tight during the day if I am feeling stressed/anxious.
We'll just have to juggle the numbers. Buddy will have his braces on for 15 to 18 months, so I suppose I can mull it over for a few months.
What do you think I should do?
Have a lovely Friday and a wonderful weekend!
Love,
My husband had that surgery when he was in high school. Legend has it he was so sick of the liquid diet that he tried to put pizza in a blender after about a month.
ReplyDeleteSince it appears to be down to cost and that depends of how much is covered by your insurance, is it possible to get a quote and check how much your insurers will cough up?
ReplyDeleteMy niece had her jaw reset to remedy a long standing problem. It was pretty hairy but she hasn't looked back.
I think you should do it if it doesn't cost too much. I just got Invisalign in January to re-straighten my teeth (braces 25+ years ago). I am very happy I decided to do it - it makes me feel better
ReplyDeleteUmmm... ouch. And liquid diet? You are a tougher person than I am...
ReplyDeleteWine through a straw? It can be done.
ReplyDeleteC'mon Ron, think positive!
I would do it.
ReplyDeleteAs one who just had a Come to Jesus meeting with her dentist last week, I say DO IT! [If the numbers work out.]
ReplyDeleteWow. That sounds painful, though it sounds like you'll have pain if you don't also...I would tend to be on the "no" side.
ReplyDeleteAs a side note, I don't think I have ever been at a weight where it would dangerous to lose 20 pounds. It might even put me pretty close to an ideal weight, ha!
My mom had the sagittal split done years ago. As far as jaw alignment goes, it went well. The liquid diet was tolerable. On thee downside, my mom says she still has areas of numbness along her jaw. Nothing debilitating, there are just small areas where her skin has no sensation.
ReplyDeleteIf she had it to do over again, she till would have the surgery.
I,m having extensive oral surgery this Friday. Dr. said I may lose 20 -30 lbs.
ReplyDelete