Restore Function & Comfort
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders encompass a cluster of conditions affecting the joint linking the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull. This pivotal joint—also termed the temporomandibular joint—facilitates essential jaw movements like yawning, speaking, and chewing.
Various factors contribute to TMJ disorders, which can impede everyday oral function. While many treatments are available for home use, TMJ surgery becomes an option for patients who have exhausted other treatment avenues with limited success.
At Shawn B. Davis, DMD, Oral & Facial Surgery Institute, we recognize the significance of restoring full jaw motion. Dr. Davis, our dedicated surgeon, commits himself to providing solutions, including TMJ surgery, to enhance his patients' quality of life. If you've attempted other methods to address your TMJ disorder but still endure pain and functional limitations, reach out to our practice to schedule a consultation and explore whether TMJ surgery could offer the resolution you seek.
Benefits of TMJ Surgery
TMJ disorders create chronic pain. Surgery offers relief, elevating a patient’s quality of life and diminishing discomfort during routine activities such as chewing or speaking.
By rectifying structural issues within the joint, TMJ surgery enhances overall jaw function, fostering improved movement and reduced stiffness.
Repositioning or joint replacement surgery can correct structural irregularities in the temporomandibular joint, proving advantageous for all patients, especially those with severe joint damage or misalignment.
By addressing TMJ disorders, jaw stress is alleviated, reducing the incidence of bruxism (teeth grinding) and preventing associated dental issues.
Surgery fortifies the jaw joint, mitigating the risk of dislocation or other temporomandibular joint-related complications.
Types of TMJ Surgery
TMJ surgical procedures vary based on the patient’s condition and underlying issues. Generally, these procedures involve the administration of either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, the choice of which is determined by your surgeon.
- Arthrocentesis: A needle is inserted into the joint space to irrigate and flush out the joint using a sterile solution, reducing inflammation, removing debris, and enhancing joint function.
- Joint Replacement (TMJ Total Joint Replacement): Severe TMJ damage may require total joint replacement, wherein the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial joint made from materials like metal or plastic, significantly improving the lives of severely impaired patients.
Types of Anesthesia
Depending on your procedure, you will receive one of the following forms of anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
Providing Excellent Oral Surgery in St. George
Outstanding outcomes and excellent care. That's our goal at Oral & Facial Surgery. At our office in St. George, we're able to craft beautiful smiles and serve our community. If you're looking for an Shawn B. Davis, DMD, Oral & Facial Surgery Institute that exceeds expectations, contact our office to learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal oral health.