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The Role of Oral Surgeons in Treating Jaw Disorders (TMJ)  

Oral surgeons play a pivotal role in the health and well-being of people in cities and towns across the country and worldwide. Jaw disorders often cause community members to experience unending pain and discomfort, which detracts from their quality of life. As an oral surgeon in Melbourne, FL, trusted by residents, we work diligently with patients to identify the root causes of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and other conditions. After a thorough examination and consultation, the professionals at Sedaros Oral Facial Surgery & Dental Implants offer various solutions for jaw disorders.

What is TMJ?

Up to 12 percent of adults struggle with TMJ, a condition that affects twice as many women as men. People between 20 and 40 years old face the highest risk of developing TMJ. This disorder typically affects two areas of the jaw: ligaments and the muscles responsible for opening, closing, and chewing.

Each person has a temporomandibular joint on both sides of their face, where the lower jaw connects with the skull. When trauma, hard impacts, misalignment, teeth grinding, infections, tumors, or other issues negatively affect the place where the jawbone and skull intersect, TMJ sufferers may experience the following:

  • Jaw and facial pain
  • Difficulty moving the jaw
  • Clicking or popping sounds
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Earaches and tooth pain
  • Ringing in the ears (Tinnitus)

As TMJ progresses, it can alter the way teeth clench together. This condition, called “malocclusion,” can lead to tooth erosion and gum disease. The symptoms overlap with others we see in our practice, so diagnosing TMJ and other jaw conditions requires an examination by an experienced Melbourne oral surgeon.

How an Oral Surgeon Diagnoses TMJ

A Melbourne oral surgeon takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing jaw disorders. The process typically begins with a thorough review of the patient’s medical history, followed by a physical examination of the jaw and affected areas. Common indicators include joint and muscle palpation, clicking sounds, and limited range of motion. With telltale pain and discomfort, the next steps usually involve X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.

Non-Surgical TMJ and Jaw Dysfunction Solutions

Remember, no single test can diagnose TMJ. That’s why community members should seek an experienced and trusted Melbourne oral surgeon for an examination. Once the oral surgeon diagnoses TMJ, they offer various non-invasive solutions, including:

  • Bite guards and oral splints
  • Muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories
  • Physical therapy and jaw muscle stretching exercises
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

We can also use trigger point injections to loosen stubborn, knotted muscles. However, when these options are insufficient, TMJ surgery may become necessary.

TMJ Oral Surgery in Melbourne, FL

At our Melbourne dental surgery practice, our goal is to employ the least invasive treatment possible for TMJ. When other approaches are unsuitable or the dysfunction progresses, we offer surgical solutions, including:

  • Arthrocentesis: Using a needle, we withdraw fluid buildup from the jaw joint. This procedure provides a viable option between non-surgical treatments and the need for more invasive corrections. Arthrocentesis typically alleviates or minimizes TMJ symptoms.
  • TMJ Arthroscopy: The oral surgeon makes an incision just behind the jawbone’s intersection with the skull. Then, an instrument is inserted, allowing the surgeon to alter the jawbone’s shape, reposition the joint’s disc, or remove damaged tissues. Often called “keyhole surgery,” this procedure delivers effective results.
  • Open-Joint Surgery: Advanced and debilitating cases may require a Melbourne oral surgeon to make a long incision to fully access the jaw joint. This procedure addresses significant issues that require corrective action.

The good news for people suffering from TMJ pain is that many cases can be resolved or managed. If you’re experiencing signs of TMJ, early treatment usually yields the best results.

Ask About Dental Surgery, Melbourne, FL

If you’re experiencing signs or symptoms that suggest you need an oral surgeon, the Sedaros Oral Facial Surgery & Dental Implants team can help. Call our Melbourne, FL, office today at 321.610.7868 to schedule an appointment.