Joint Replacement Options for TMJ
Joint replacement surgery may be considered for patients with severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders after conservative treatments, such as non-surgical and minimally invasive approaches, have been deemed inadequate. Joint replacement options – total replacement and joint reconstruction – offer solutions to restore function and reduce pain in the TMJ.
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) can help determine the severity of your TMJ disorder (TMD) and the appropriate treatment options.
Total Joint Replacement
Total joint replacement involves replacing the entire TMJ with an artificial joint. During surgery, the ball-and-socket parts of the diseased joint are removed and replaced with patient-specific, custom-made prosthetic parts made of biocompatible materials such as metal, plastic or ceramic. In some cases, the patient’s own tissue may be used. Total joint replacement aims to restore joint function, improve jaw movement and reduce pain.
Arthroplasty – Reconstruction
Open-joint arthroplasty replaces, repairs, repositions or removes only the damaged or deteriorated part of the TMJ and preserves the healthy parts. This procedure is appropriate when only one part of the joint – such as the disc – is damaged and the surrounding structures are relatively intact.
TMJ reconstruction is another kind of arthroplasty. The goal of joint reconstruction is to repair or reconstruct damaged temporomandibular joints. Joint reconstruction usually is recommended when the TMJ can be repaired and the damage is not extensive. An OMS may use techniques such as fat grafting, tissue repositioning and disc repair to restore joint function and stability.
Arthroplasty also may be used to completely remove a disc or place space maintainers. Your OMS can determine what specific procedure will work best for you.
Advantages of Joint Replacement
The benefits of joint replacement options for TMJ disorders include:
- Reduced pain and discomfort: Joint replacement surgery aims to reduce the chronic pain associated with TMJ disorders, thereby improving quality of life.
- Restoration of jaw function: Replacing damaged joint components can restore near-normal jaw movement and function, allowing a person to eat, speak and chew without restriction.
Joint Replacement Considerations
The following factors should be considered before pursuing joint replacement options:
- Surgical risk and recovery: Joint replacement options for TMJ disorders are usually considered as a last resort when other conservative treatments fail. These surgical procedures are complex and require careful evaluation and planning by an experienced OMS. A patient’s recovery time and rehabilitation needs vary depending on the procedure performed and individual factors.
- Long-term results: Joint replacement surgery provides significant relief and improvement in function. But the long-term success and durability of prosthetic components can vary from person to person. Regular follow-up appointments with your OMS are essential to monitor joint status and address concerns.
TMJ Replacement Surgery Process and Recovery
TMJ replacement and reconstruction surgeries are performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital under general anesthesia. A hospital stay following the surgery is usually required. Following surgery, your ears may ring and ache, you will likely have some degree of discomfort and your bite may be temporarily out of alignment. Your OMS may require you to wear an occlusal splint and adhere to a soft diet for several weeks. You also may be referred to a physical therapist to help restore and maintain function of the jaw.
Consult an experienced OMS who specializes in TMJ disorders to determine if joint replacement surgery is the right treatment option for you. Your OMS can assess your condition, discuss potential risks and benefits and make an informed decision about TMJ treatment.
