Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Treatment

Who is it for?

• Individuals experiencing pain or discomfort in the jaw, face, or neck
• People who have difficulty opening or closing their mouth
• Those who hear clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
• Patients with a history of teeth grinding or clenching

Recovery Period

• Non-invasive treatments like physical therapy and dental splints typically have no recovery time.
• Invasive procedures such as surgery may require weeks to months of recovery.
• Post-procedure care includes follow-up appointments, jaw exercises, and sometimes a soft food diet.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

• Infection at the surgery site
• Nerve damage, leading to a loss of sensation or movement
• Joint damage
• General risks associated with anesthesia and surgical procedures

Alternative Treatments

• Physical therapy
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
• Stress management and relaxation techniques
• Dietary changes and avoiding hard foods

Success Rate

Success rates for TMJ treatment vary widely depending on the treatment approach and the severity of the disorder, but conservative treatments have high rates of patient satisfaction.

Procedure step-by-step overivew

• Diagnosis: Comprehensive examination including medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests to confirm TMJ disorder.
• Non-surgical treatment: Starting with least invasive treatments such as lifestyle changes, medications or dental splints.
• Re-evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness of initial treatments and deciding whether more invasive procedures are needed.
• Surgical intervention: For severe cases, options may include arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open joint surgery.
• Recovery and follow-up: Post-procedure care and monitoring to ensure recovery and assess the necessity of additional treatments.