Treating a hematoma

Below are some instructions on treating a Hematoma (“internal bruise”) or restricted jaw opening after local anesthetic:

If soreness develops:

• You may take whatever over-the-counter medications you normally take for aches and pains. Alternating pain medications may be more effective in pain relief than taking one type of pain medication alone.
• Ice with firm pressure may be applied to the region immediately.
• Do not apply heat to the area for at least 4 to 6 hours.
• Heat may be applied the next day by applying warm moist towels to the affected area for 20 minutes every hour.
• Time is the most important element in managing a hematoma. With or without treatment, a hematoma will be present 7-14 days. Avoid additional dental therapy in the region until symptoms resolve.

If limitation of jaw movement occurs:

• Apply hot, moist towels to the affected area for approximately 20 minutes every hour.
• Add 1 teaspoon of salt to a 12 ounce glass of warm water and hold a sip in the mouth on the affected side then spit out once the water cools. Repeat until the glass is empty.
• Taking aspirin or ibuprofen will help relieve inflammation and is recommended unless you are unable to take these medications.
• Open and close the mouth as well as move your jaw side to side for 5 minutes every 3-4 hours. Chewing sugarless gum is one method for accomplishing this.
• Continue therapy as above until you are symptom free.
• In most cases, once therapy has been initiated, patients report that they start to see improvement within 48-72 hours. Complete recovery usually takes about 6 weeks but may take up to 20 weeks.