TMJ is a fairly common issue, though the level of severity varies. Of course, many TMJ complications can be treated without the need for surgery. When less invasive treatment procedures fail, however, surgical TMJ treatment might be required to relieve the symptoms.
Information about TMJ surgery
It is helpful to understand more about surgical TMJ treatment and when it might be necessary to make an informed decision as to whether this treatment is right for you. The following is everything to know about TMJ surgery, including how the process works and when it might be recommended by a dentist.
What is surgical TMJ treatment?
Surgical TMJ treatment might refer to a variety of different procedures, and the exact type of surgery is dependent on the precise issue of the patient. Several common types of surgical TMJ treatment include:
- Arthroscopic surgery
- Arthrocentesis
- Open-joint surgery
- Corticosteroid injections
TMJ arthroscopy and arthrocentesis is a less invasive surgical procedure and one that an oral surgeon might utilize in order to minimize discomfort. For more serious cases, open-joint surgery might be performed to reduce long-term pain caused by TMJ complications. Corticosteroid injections have been known to relieve discomfort in some patients as well.
How the process works
The first step toward surgical TMJ treatment is to schedule an appointment with a dentist, during which they will document the patient’s symptoms and conduct a physical evaluation. In most instances, treatment most likely starts with less-invasive options, such as lifestyle changes and medication. If the issue does not improve over time, however, the dentist might recommend TMJ surgery in order to relieve the symptoms long term and ensure that future complications do not develop. Once the patient agrees on the form of TMJ surgery that is most appropriate, a day and time is scheduled for surgery.
Who is TMJ surgery for?
TMJ surgery is for anyone who struggles with symptoms of a TMJ disorder that does not improve over time. Several common TMJ disorder symptoms include the following:
- Jaw pain
- Earache
- Facial pain
- Locked jaw
- Difficulty chewing
TMJ disorder often leads to an inability to do certain daily tasks, such as eating or talking for long periods of time. An inability to move the jaw freely is a common symptom as well. Individuals who are considering TMJ surgery should also be willing and able to go through the surgical process.
Talk to a dentist about TMJ treatment
Surgical TMJ treatment may not be a fun experience, but it is often a necessary step on the road to a full recovery of a TMJ disorder. If you are struggling with discomfiting TMJ disorder symptoms and want to find out more about how treatment can help you feel and function better, consult with us today and schedule a time to come in for your first visit. Here at our office, we have the staff and resources necessary to carry out TMJ treatment, including surgery when it is needed.
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Call our Leawood, KS, dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.