Patient Information

What do I do if I am on blood thinners?

If you are on blood thinning medications then these will need to be stopped prior to surgery. How long before is dependent on which drug you are on. The guidance is set out below.

Apixaban, Rivaroxaban, Edoxaban 3 days. Restart after 24 hours Clopidogril 7 days. Restart after 24 hours Warfarin 3 days but will require injection of Heparin once daily instead. Coagulation blood test required day prior to surgery. Restart after 24 hours but continue with heparin until clotting in treatment range (checked with blood test after 72 hours). Liaison with the coagulation clinic is required.

Temporomandibular Dysfunction Information

Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) can have various causes and may require different treatments. Here are some common approaches to manage TMD:

1. Self-care: Gentle jaw exercises, relaxation techniques, and avoiding excessive jaw movements can help reduce symptoms. Alternating hot and cold compresses may also help.
2. Lifestyle changes: Avoiding hard or chewy foods, minimizing stress, and practicing good posture can alleviate TMD symptoms.
3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may provide relief. Topical non-steroidal gels can also be helpful.
4. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises and techniques to improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
5. Dental treatments: Your dentist may recommend mouthguards, splints, or orthodontic treatment to help with TMD.
6. Injections: Botox injections can be used to relax jaw muscles and reduce pain.
7. Surgery: In severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered, but this is typically a last resort.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific TMD symptoms.