TMJ Surgery: Alleviating Pain and Improving Jaw Function for a Better Quality of Life
What is TMJ Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull. These joints, known as the temporomandibular joints, are located on either side of the head, just in front of the ears. If affected by TMJ Disorder, the joints can cause significant pain and discomfort and lead to difficulty moving the jaw.
What causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder can be caused by a variety of factors:
- Trauma to the jaw or head
- Arthritis
- Misalignment of the jaw
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Stress
- Genetic predisposition
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
TMJ symptoms can include pain or discomfort in the jaw or face, difficulty or pain when opening or closing the mouth, a clicking or popping sound in the jaw, and limited movement of jaw muscles. People with TMJ disorder may also experience headaches, earaches, and ringing in the ears. In some cases, the jaw may even lock in an open or closed position.
Non-surgical treatment options for TMJ disorders
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or muscle relaxants can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.Physical therapy
Exercises, stretching, and massages can help strengthen the jaw muscles and improve jaw movement.Occlusal appliances
Wearing an oral splint or mouth guard can help stabilise the jaw, alleviate pain, and reduce teeth grinding or clenching.Lifestyle changes
Stress management techniques, such as meditation or relaxation exercises, can help reduce tension in the jaw muscles. Avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods and not resting the chin on the hand can also help.Heat/cold therapy
Applying warm or cold compresses to the affected area may provide temporary pain relief Trigger point injections In some cases, injecting medications like local anaesthetics, corticosteroids, or Botox into specific jaw muscles can help relieve pain and muscle tightness.Counselling
Working with a mental health professional can help address habits or behaviours that may contribute to TMJ disorders, such as teeth grinding, clenching, or jaw tension.Am I a good candidate for TMJ surgery?
A good candidate for TMJ surgery is someone who has tried more conservative treatment options, such as physical therapy and medication and has not found significant relief from their symptoms. You may be a good candidate for TMJ surgery if the below is relevant to you:
- Severe and chronic pain in the jaw joint, face or ear
- Limited jaw movement or a clicking or popping sound in the jaw
- Damage or arthritis in the temporomandibular joint
- A misaligned jaw or malocclusion that is causing strain on the temporomandibular joint
- Failed to achieve relief from more conservative treatments such as orthodontic treatment, night guards or physical therapy
- In good overall health
How is TMJ surgery carried out?
TMJ surgery is carried out using two primary methods: TMJ arthroscopy and open-joint surgery. TMJ arthroscopy involves inserting a small, thin tube (cannula) and an arthroscope (a tiny camera) into the joint space to visualise, diagnose, and treat the affected area.
In open-joint surgery, the surgeon makes an incision to directly access the temporomandibular joint, allowing for more extensive repair or reconstruction of the joint. The choice between these techniques depends on the severity and specific requirements of the patient’s TMJ disorder.
Why choose us to treat your TMJ disorder?
At The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street, we can help treat TMJ disorder by diagnosing the issue, recommending non-surgical treatment options, and developing a personalised treatment plan. Depending on the severity of your condition we may prescribe medications for pain relief, design custom occlusal appliances like mouth guards or splints, or suggest physical therapy or lifestyle modifications. In more severe cases, we may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and potential surgical intervention.
How to contact us at our Sydney CBD clinic
Mon & Thu: 8am-7pm
Tue, Wed & Fri: 8am-5pm
Saturday: 8am-1pm
Sunday: closed
FAQs
Below you can find our FAQs about TMJ surgery. Sydney residents can contact us for more information about the procedure, or use the online form above to book an appointment.
How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?
Diagnosis of TMJ disorder typically begins with a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. It will include an examination of the jaw, face, and neck for signs of pain or tenderness, as well as checking for limited jaw movement or a clicking or popping sound in the jaw. It may also include imaging tests, such as x-rays, CT scans or an MRI to further evaluate the joint and surrounding structures.
Can TMJ disorder be cured?
How can I treat TMJ jaw pain at home?
When is surgery not recommended?
What complications can happen?
Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second
opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Contact us for more information.
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