Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments in TMJ and TMD

Surgical and non-surgical treatments for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD) have become increasingly important for individuals who suffer from pain or dysfunction of the jaw. TMJ/TMD is a medical condition characterized by pain in the temporomandibular joint, connecting the jawbone to the skull. Individuals with TMJ/TMD often report pain when talking, chewing, or yawning, as well as clicking or popping of the joint when opening and closing the jaw. Non-surgical treatments for TMJ/TMD aim to reduce pain and improve jaw mobility. These treatments include physical therapy, splint therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications, stress management, and diet modification. Physical therapy includes exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the jaw and neck. Splint therapy utilizes various kinds of removable devices placed onto the teeth to redistribute forces of the jaw and muscles when opening and closing the mouth. Medications may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Acupuncture, yoga, and other types of relaxation therapies can help reduce stress to help reduce the symptoms associated with TMJ/TMD. Diet modification is an important component of any treatment plan. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and avoid foods that aggravate the joint, such as chewy or hard foods. When non-surgical treatments do not provide adequate relief, a patient may consider surgery. Depending on the patient’s condition, various types of surgery can be employed. Open-joint surgery, such as arthroscopy and arthroplasty, are used to remove damaged or worn surfaces from the joint, reducing pain and restoring function. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to reshape the jawbone or other affected structures. Procedures such a jaw reconstruction may also be considered if the patient requires long-term relief. No matter the treatment plan, it is important to work closely with your medical team to discuss the risks and benefits of each option. TMJ/TMD can be a difficult condition to manage, but with careful evaluation and treatment, individuals can restore movement and reduce or eliminate pain.