ADA NBDE National Board Dental Part II

Answer: D - After performing an intermaxillary fixation, the orthognathic surgeon informs the patient that the initial healing period is 6 to 8 weeks. This period allows the fibrocartilage callus to convert to bony callus at 3 to 4 weeks post surgery, leaving an additional 2 to 4 weeks for bone strengthening. However, it may take up to three months for the patient to begin eating from a more diverse menu than liquids and semi-solids.