Information on Arch Bars of Surgical Technology

Arch bars can be used by a dentist or surgeon to manage a fracture (break) in the mandible (jaw). These appliances are cast into rigid metal strips to immobilize the patient's ability to chew or open his mouth. A set of arch bars can be splints, bars or wires that will easily conform to the natural arch of the teeth. The arch bars are ideal to maintain a patient's natural bite in a stationary position until the patient's bone heals. A surgeon or dentist will place the arch bars while the patient is under general or local anesthesia.

Care of Arch Bars at Home

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for the irritation and soreness in your gums, lips and mouth. Use caution where the surgeon may have placed a tiny metal plate and screws to hold the fractured mandible together. Rinse your mouth with warm salt-water to release bits of soft food. Decrease the potential of a bacterial infection by rinsing often with warm saltwater and keeping the mouth clean. Use a soft toothbrush to gently brush teeth after every meal.

When to Call the Doctor

• Call the doctor if you have a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher for four hours. Tell a doctor is you experience an increase in swelling or pain where the fracture (broken bone) occurred. Contact the doctor if there is pus or bleeding.

Arch Bar Removal

• Expect your mouth and gums to be sore after the arch bar removal.

  Arch bar removal may take place in the doctor's office, after a numbing medication is given inside the gum area. Expect the procedure to take an hour and arrange for someone to do the driving. Continue to use warm saltwater rinses at home and keep the mouth clean. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever as necessary for any discomfort. Report any clicking, soreness in the jaw area or swelling in the gum area to the doctor.