Temporomandibular joint management and surgery
Many people have troubles with this joint because it's so complex
A temporomandibular joint (TMJ, which is also known as a jaw joint) connects your bottom jaw with your skull on either side of your head. It is possible to resolve most TMJ problems without surgery, but surgery is required for about 5% of patients with TMJ problems.
Several factors can affect your TMJ, including degenerative arthritis and accidents. A substantial part of the population who are anxious clench or grind their teeth (often at night), which causes wear and tears on the joint. You can also have problems with this joint if you have a poor bite.
There may also be pain around the ear, toothache, difficulty opening the mouth or closing it, difficulty chewing, or a headache from TMJ syndrome.
Before opting for surgery
When it comes to TMJ syndrome, Dr. John Doe will usually consider non-surgical options first since discomfort can often be alleviated without surgery.
Several of these methods include dietary modifications as well as hot and cold packs, avoiding excessive jaw movement, and stress management techniques. If your problem cannot be relieved by physiotherapy or medications to relax the jaw muscles, then pain medications or medications to relax the jaw muscles may work as well. The use of a “”bite splint”” while sleeping can help reduce stress on the TMJ.
4 Types of TMJ Surgery
1. Arthroscopy
During the procedure, Dr. John Doe makes a tiny incision in front of your ear and inserts an arthroscope (a glass tube with a camera and light attached to the tip). In addition to repairing any defects, he also looks for new ones.
2. Washing out the joint
In addition to osteocentesis, this is also known as lavage. By removing the substances that contribute to joint inflammation with this minimally invasive procedure, the symptoms can be reduced.
3. Arthrotomy
You will need to make an incision in front of your ear to undergo this type of surgery. With this device, Dr. Doe can take a visual inspection of the joint and if necessary, a biopsy of tissue.
4. Total joint replacement
Should nothing else work to relieve your discomfort, a TMJ joint replacement may be an option. An artificial joint is created by replacing the damaged joint with one made of metal. Surgery of this kind requires a longer recovery period.
The place where TMJ surgery is performed
TMJ surgery is performed at a private hospital by Dr. John Doe. The patient is sedated by a specialist anesthetist under a general anesthetic. Additionally, the anesthetist is responsible for providing you with pain medication after surgery.
Depending on how complex the surgery is, it can take 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Recovery after TMJ surgery
Hospital stay: The anesthetic is usually done during arthroscopy or arthrocentesis, so once you are ready you can drive home after your surgery. Due to the fact that you’ll likely be under general anaesthetic, someone will need to pick you up and drive you home.
An advanced surgery will require up to four days of hospitalization.
Pain management: In cases of arthroscopy, an arthrocentesis, and an arthrotomy, pain tablets like Nurofen® or Panadeine Forte® can usually be used to minimize discomfort.
A joint replacement patient will initially receive IV analgesia, which can be self-administered. Normally, anaesthetists will prescribe some medications for patients to take during their recovery. After 48 hours you will be able to take painkillers such as Nurofen® or Panadeine Forte® without experiencing any discomfort.
School/Work: You should allow approximately three days off for arthroscopy, arthrocentesis, and arthrotomy. A joint replacement will require you to take around two weeks off.
Stitches: The majority of cases are treated with dissolving stitches. Over a period of 1 to 2 weeks, they gradually dissolve.
Diet: The first 3 to 4 weeks after surgery will be spent on soft foods.
Follow-up care: Dr. John Doe will monitor your healing by seeing you periodically.
As part of the presurgical consultation with Dr. Doe, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions. Following these instructions carefully will give you the best chance of making a quick recovery. A general explanation of post-op and patient care is available on the Post-operative and Post-Patient Care page.
Possible complications
Having TMJ surgery performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon is unlikely to have complications. In addition, all TMJ surgeries can pose some risks and complications, which include:
– Numbness of the face and mouth due to nerve damage
– Infection
– Injuries to the jaw joint or deterioration of the bite
The cost of TMJ surgery
You will receive a part of the reimbursement for your initial consultation from Medicare.
Your TMJ surgery cost will be quoted to you in writing by Dr. Doe at your initial consultation. With our assistance, you can make your Medicare and private health insurance claims so that you can estimate your insurance coverage.
You’ll receive the anesthetist’s contact information in case one is required so you can find out about their fee schedule. Part of the anesthetist’s fee will be covered by Medicare and private health insurance.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. John Doe is highly skilled and experienced. The doctor explains things clearly and doesn’t take a lot of time to listen, so don’t be afraid to ask him about your temporomandibular joint management options and concerns – he will make sure to answer them and handle them sensitively.
Explore our guide to TMJ surgery to learn more.