TMJ surgery is a specialized surgical procedure performed to address conditions and disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders can cause pain, discomfort, difficulty in jaw movement, and other symptoms that significantly impact one’s quality of life.
Key benefits of TMJ Surgery
We may recommend TMJ Surgery to address the following concerns:
Severe Pain: If you experience intense and persistent pain in the jaw, face, head, or neck that doesn’t respond to non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or splints, surgery may be considered to address the underlying cause of the pain.
Limited Jaw Function: TMJ disorders can lead to limitations in jaw movement, making it difficult to open and close your mouth properly. If conservative treatments fail to restore normal jaw function, surgery may be necessary to correct structural issues.
Structural Abnormalities: Some individuals may have structural abnormalities within the temporomandibular joint or surrounding structures, such as displaced discs, damaged joint surfaces, or growths. Surgical intervention may be required to repair or reposition these structures.
Joint Degeneration: In cases where the TMJ has undergone significant degeneration due to arthritis or other chronic conditions, surgical procedures like joint replacement or joint reconstruction may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain.
Traumatic Injuries: Trauma to the jaw or the temporomandibular joint can result in severe damage, fractures, or dislocation. Surgery may be needed to repair the damage and restore normal function.
Failed Previous Treatments: If you have undergone conservative treatments for TMJ disorders without success, surgery might be considered as a next step to address the underlying issues.
What to Expect for a Jaw Pain Consultation
The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your TMJ condition. This may include diagnostic imaging, bite analysis, and a thorough assessment of your symptoms. After a thorough examination, we will discuss the specifics of the surgical treatment, answering any questions or concerns you may have.
How is TMJ Surgery Performed?
TMJ surgery is performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. The specific surgical technique will depend on your individual case, as TMJ disorders can have various causes and manifestations. Procedures may involve arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery using a small camera), joint repositioning, removal of scar tissue, or joint replacement.
During the surgery, our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon will skillfully address the underlying issues contributing to your TMJ disorder. The procedure aims to correct the alignment of the joint, remove any obstacles hindering its proper function, and restore stability and balance to the jaw.
How is the Recovery After TMJ Surgery?
Following TMJ surgery, a period of recovery is essential to ensure optimal healing and successful outcomes. You may experience some swelling, discomfort, and limited jaw movement initially. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions, including pain management strategies, dietary recommendations, and physical therapy exercises to aid in your recovery.
Recovery times can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing factors. It is important to follow the provided guidelines diligently and attend any follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
TMJ surgery offers the potential for significant improvement in your quality of life by reducing pain, restoring jaw function, and alleviating related symptoms. Our experienced team is committed to providing personalized care, addressing your unique needs, and guiding you through every step of the process.