In cases where diagnosis indicates a specific problem with the TMJ or where several attempts at non-surgical intervention have failed, joint surgery may be an appropriate treatment. TMJ surgery is designed to treat and fix a specific problem including removal of scar tissue, repair and reposition of the disc, alter the anatomy of a joint, or remove degenerative tissue.
Temporomandibular joint disorder surgery is typically reserved for patients with severe dysfunction of the jaw joint that has not responded to other treatments. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), TMJ disorders affect between 5% and 12% of the population. While many TMJ issues can be managed with non-surgical options like medication, physical therapy, or oral appliances, surgery may be necessary for individuals with advanced joint damage or persistent symptoms.
The following are some common scenarios where TMJ surgery might be recommended:
Patients who experience chronic, debilitating pain or difficulty moving their jaw—despite trying non-invasive treatments—may benefit from surgery. This includes individuals who struggle with basic activities like chewing, speaking, or yawning due to joint dysfunction.
When the TMJ joint has been significantly damaged by conditions like arthritis, trauma, or degenerative diseases, surgical intervention may be required to repair or replace the joint and restore proper function.
If a patient has undergone extensive non-surgical therapies, such as splints, physical therapy, or Botox injections, without experiencing relief, surgery may offer a long-term solution.
Frequent locking of the jaw or episodes where the joint dislocates can severely impact a patient’s quality of life. Surgery may be necessary to correct structural issues causing these problems.
Benefits of TMJ Prosthetic Joint Replacement
Temporomandibular joint prosthetic joint replacement offers a transformative solution for individuals with severe jaw dysfunction, chronic pain, or significant joint damage. This advanced surgical procedure can provide numerous benefits, improving both quality of life and long-term oral health.
Here are the key advantages:
At Park Smiles NYC, our experienced team combines advanced surgical techniques with personalized care to help you achieve lasting relief and improved jaw function.
An arthroscope is a miniature telescopic instrument, like that used for many years with knee joints, through which the contents of the jaw joint can be viewed. Using a special arthroscope small enough to enter the TMJ, this allows us to visualize the joint and perform minor surgical procedures such as treating cartilage damage. Once you’re asleep, the joint is flushed out with numbing medicine and fluids. The TMJ is then carefully entered with the arthroscope though a small incision in front of the ear. After the arthroscope has been placed, we can view the magnified anatomy of the joint on a screen. We can then perform the needed treatment through the scope using specialized instruments such a laser to remove scar tissue, reduce swollen, inflamed tissue, and reposition an out-of-place disc.
In some cases arthroscopic surgery may be incapable of correcting a TMJ problem and other surgical procedures need to be considered. For example, if a disc is displaced and cannot be moved back into proper position, then open surgery may be needed to expose the joint and allow more complex treatment procedures to be performed. Arthroplasty involves making an incision in front of the ear to expose the joint so Dr. Cohen can repair a disc or ligament. Dr. Cohen can also remove any diseased condyle (the rounded projection on a bone) as a result of degenerative joint disease. Any bone interferences can also be smoothed out or removed and the disc can be secured into its correct position with the help of stitches.
In the event of severe joint deterioration, which may occur in certain types of arthritis affecting the TMJ, more extensive surgical procedures are available to treat the problem. Much like a knee or a hip joint can be replaced with a prosthetic, the TMJ can also be replaced.
Using a computer-generated image of your CT scan, a three-dimensional model of your skull can be fabricated out of plastic. Using this model, a prosthetic joint of metal and plastic can be custom made to your model and surgically inserted by Dr. Cohen. This procedure would be performed under general anesthesia.
Recovering from TMJ surgery is a gradual process that requires proper care and follow-up to ensure successful healing and adjustment to the prosthetic joint. Immediately after surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the jaw area. These symptoms are normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medications and ice packs. A soft or liquid diet is typically recommended for the first few weeks to minimize strain on the healing joint, and your surgeon will provide detailed dietary guidelines tailored to your needs.
Physical therapy often plays a critical role in the recovery process, helping to improve jaw mobility, reduce stiffness, and rebuild strength in the surrounding muscles. Your care team will provide you with specific exercises to perform at home and guide you through this process during follow-up appointments. Regular check-ins with your surgeon are essential for monitoring progress and ensuring the prosthetic joint is functioning correctly, allowing adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
As you heal, you’ll likely notice gradual improvements in pain relief, jaw function, and overall comfort. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few months, although the exact recovery timeline varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing factors.
At Park Smiles NYC, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, providing personalized care and guidance to help you achieve lasting relief and restored jaw functionality.
Living with TMJ pain or dysfunction can be overwhelming, but advanced treatments like TMJ prosthetic joint replacement can provide the relief and improved function you need. At Park Smiles NYC, we specialize in personalized care, offering innovative surgical solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way, from diagnosis to recovery, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience.
If you’re ready to explore whether TMJ surgery is the right solution for you, we’re here to help. Contact us today at (212) 988-6724 or use our contact form to schedule a consultation. Let Park Smiles NYC help you move toward a life free from TMJ pain and discomfort.
If you are ready to enhance your smile, the experienced cosmetic dentists at Park Smiles NYC are here to help. Our dedicated team offers a comprehensive range of services, from orthodontics to teeth whitening, to meet all your oral health needs. We understand the importance of a healthy smile for your overall well-being and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction throughout your treatment journey.
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