If you have jaw pain or difficulty moving your jaw, you might have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. To relieve TMJ symptoms, your dentist might recommend surgical or non-surgical treatments. Before you talk to your dentist about TMJ treatment options, consider the benefits of treatments for TMJ and surgery, which South Philadelphia Orthodontic Associates offers to patients in Philadelphia, PA.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

Jaw pain, a common symptom of temporomandibular joint disorders, leads many patients to turn to their dentists for help. In addition to pain, people with TMJ dysfunction might experience:

• Sensitivity of the jaw
• Difficulty opening the jaw all the way
• Jaw locking
• Jaw pain when speaking or yawning
• Jaw misalignment
• Tooth pain and enamel damage

The symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can cause difficulty sleeping, stress, and discomfort when speaking socially or at school or work. 

Surgical Treatments of TMJ Disorders

Surgical treatment for TMJ dysfunction is typically a minimally invasive procedure. During the surgery, the oral surgeon will use arthroscopic techniques to examine the temporomandibular joint space and repair damage. It should take a few days to recover from TMJ surgery.

TMJ surgery takes place under general anesthesia, so you will not be aware of what is happening during the procedure. Let your dentist know if you have any allergies to any types of anesthesia. Your dentist will also ask whether you are taking any other medications, such as blood thinners, and might need you to stop taking certain medications for a short time before the surgery.

Non-surgical Alternatives to TMJ Treatments

Less severe cases of TMJ disorders that do not involve extensive damage to the temporomandibular joint often respond to non-surgical treatments. Your dentist may recommend the following methods to treat TMJ in conjunction with your physician and other healthcare providers:

• Dietary changes
• Meditation and stress relief
• Medication for depression and anxiety
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy and jaw exercises
• Dental night guards

Do I Need Surgery for TMJ Dysfunction?

The decision to seek surgical intervention depends on many factors. You will decide between more conservative treatments for TMJ dysfunction and surgery with the guidance of your dentist. Before surgery, your dentist will look at your medical history, examine your x-rays, and discuss questions with you, such as:

• How severe are your TMJ symptoms?
• Do your symptoms interfere with everyday life?
• Have you tried non-surgical treatments? Were they effective?

Your dentist should explain the details of the procedure and describe what techniques the surgeon will perform. Be sure to ask for clarification if anything is unclear. At South Philadelphia Orthodontic Associates, we ensure our patients make informed decisions without any pressure before we proceed with surgery.

Get Professional Treatment for TMJ Disorders, Including TMJ Surgery From South Philadelphia Orthodontic Associates

You no longer have to suffer through the pain, discomfort, and anxiety that TMJ disorders cause. South Philadelphia Orthodontic Associates offers state-of-the-art surgical techniques from highly qualified surgeons as well as non-surgical treatment options such as dental night guards.

• Our local trusted dental practice offers same-day, walk-in appointments for urgent care dental emergencies – give us a call for an immediate need

• The prices of TMJ & Surgery procedures vary greatly, but dental insurance can help make them more affordable

• Our dentists have years of experience in providing quality dental care

Call (215) 271-8870 to speak to a dentist about your TMJ symptoms and consider the benefits of surgical and non-surgical treatments for your TMJ disorder.