TMJ Surgery Versus TMJ Treatments

The short answer: TMJ surgery should be a means of last resort. In many cases, less invasive TMJ treatment options are available to you. 

Crunching sounds in your jaw joint. Pain when you eat. Can’t open your mouth fully. If you’re suffering with any of these, you might be considering TMJ surgery.

Sometimes, surgery for TMJ is the only option. But you’d be wise to examine more conservative TMJ treatments before going under the knife.

Once anatomical structures within the joint have been surgically altered, there’s no turning back. To make matters worse, TMJ surgery is not always successful.

So, surgery for TMJ is one option – but you may have better options that are far less invasive. Meanwhile, let’s compare the two approaches.

What Is TMJ Surgery?

TMJ surgery refers to various surgical procedures for severe and persistent issues associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. 

Patients typically consider this type of surgery when less invasive treatment options, such as medications, physical therapy, or dental devices, have failed to alleviate significant pain or functional impairment.

What Are the Types of TMJ Surgery?

Several types of TMJ surgery exist, ranging from minimally invasive to more complex procedures:

• Arthrocentesis: This minor procedure involves inserting needles into the joint to irrigate fluid and remove debris and inflammatory byproducts.
• Arthroscopy: Surgeons insert a small camera (arthroscope) through a small incision near the joint to view and possibly treat various TMJ issues. This method is less invasive than open-joint surgery and generally allows for a quicker recovery time.
• Open-Joint Surgery: Open-joint surgery might be necessary for more severe joint issues. This involves a larger incision to fully expose the joint so the surgeon can repair, reposition, or replace it or its components. This type of surgery is reserved for cases where the structural integrity of the joint is significantly compromised.
• Total Joint Replacement: In extreme damage or degeneration cases, the entire TMJ might need to be replaced with an artificial joint.

Surgery for TMJ aims to alleviate pain, increase mobility, and improve the jaw’s overall functionality. However, due to its potential risks and variable success rates, it is usually considered a last resort after all other conservative methods have been exhausted.

What Is the Root Cause Of TMJ?

The root cause of TMJ disorders often lies in the misalignment between the jaw and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This misalignment can lead to mechanical dysfunction and pain. 

Factors such as dental misalignments, habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, trauma, or even arthritis can exacerbate or trigger these issues, affecting the balance and function of the jaw.

Are You Born with TMJ, or Do You Develop It?

While some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to TMJ disorders, most cases develop over time due to a combination of factors. These can include behavioral habits like bruxism (teeth grinding), poor posture, trauma to the jaw, or other environmental and lifestyle influences that put undue stress on the TMJ. However, the most prevalent factor that develops TMJ disorders is a poor bite relationship causing a misalignment of the lower jaw and the temporomandibular joints.

When Is Surgery for TMJ Necessary?

TMJ surgery becomes a necessity in severe cases where non-surgical treatments fail to alleviate symptoms. 

This includes situations where the TMJ is anatomically compromised, such as in ankylosis —where the joint is fused, preventing movement—or severe degenerative arthritic damage. 

Surgery for TMJ also becomes necessary when the jaw is locked or the TMJ pain remains unresolved by more conservative therapies, indicating advanced joint damage.

What Is the Age Limit for TMJ Surgery?

There is no specific age limit for TMJ surgery. Again, it is generally the last resort when all other conservative treatment options have been tried and failed. 

The decision to proceed with surgery for TMJ depends on the severity of the symptoms, the degree of joint damage, and the patient’s overall health and medical history rather than their age.

What Are the Cons of TMJ Surgery?

TMJ surgery comes with several potential downsides. The most significant is the risk of irreversible changes to the joint structure, which may not always lead to improvement and can sometimes result in worsened symptoms. 

The surgery carries the usual risks associated with any surgical procedure, including infection, nerve damage, or negative reactions to anesthesia. Additionally, the success rates can vary, and in some cases, further surgery may be required

What Is the Success Rate of TMJ Surgery?

The success rate of TMJ surgery varies depending on the type of surgery performed and the case’s specific circumstances.

Generally, it is considered effective for severe, structural TMJ problems that do not respond to other treatments. 

However, because the outcomes vary widely, patients must have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of potential risks and benefits.

Does TMJ Ever Fully Heal?

Complete healing from TMJ disorders depends on various factors, including the cause and severity of the condition. While many patients experience significant relief from symptoms through non-surgical treatments or surgery, some may need ongoing management strategies, such as stress reduction techniques, dietary adjustments, or physical therapy to maintain function and minimize discomfort.

Can TMJ Be Left Untreated? 

Leaving TMJ disorders untreated can lead to a progression of symptoms and potentially severe complications, such as increased pain, difficulty eating or speaking, and, in extreme cases, permanent damage to the jaw joint and surrounding tissues. Addressing the symptoms early with appropriate interventions is essential to prevent worsening of the condition.

Can TMJ Be Managed Without Surgery?

Many people successfully manage their TMJ symptoms without surgery through a combination of dental treatments, physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications. 

Non-surgical approaches are often effective in reducing pain and improving joint function, making it entirely possible to live with TMJ without resorting to surgical intervention.

7 Non-Surgical Treatments for TMJ Dysfunction

1) PRP injections—Platelet-rich plasma can be injected into the temporomandibular joints to attempt to heal inflamed tissues. Platelet-rich plasma is created from your own blood samples, which are taken and centrifuged to separate out the plasma. Then, it’s injected into the inflamed joint to try to induce tissue healing.

2) Botox injections—Botox (botulinum toxin) can be injected into the muscles surrounding the temporomandibular joint to temporarily ‘freeze’ or paralyze the muscles, causing pain. It must be reapplied every three months.

3) Night guard—Your dentist can fabricate a plastic bite guard that you wear while you sleep. Its main purpose is to protect teeth from chipping, cracking, or wearing down. However, some people hope it will help their TMJ pain.

4) Acupuncture—A traditional Chinese medicine alternative in which small, thin needles are inserted into the skin surrounding the affected area to reduce pain.

5) Muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories—Prescription drugs can relax the head and neck muscles and reduce inflammation in the joints and muscles.

6) Massage/physical therapy—Regular massage and manipulation of head and neck muscles can temporarily relieve pain and stiffness. Dry-needling, similar to acupuncture, also aims to relieve pain.

7) Soft diet—Eliminating difficult-to-chew, hard, crunchy food can reduce the stress placed upon the temporomandibular joints and help reduce symptoms.

Drawbacks of Non-Surgical Treatments for TMJ Dysfunction

All seven non-surgical treatment options are temporary fixes. None of them address the true, underlying cause of your TMJ pain and dysfunction.

To make matters worse, while you’re undergoing these procedures, your joints can continue to degenerate, and your condition can worsen.

Understand, there’s nothing inherently wrong with these TMJ treatment options. They won’t harm you and certainly can temporarily make you feel better.

But if you want to cure your TMJ pain and dysfunction for good, the truth is… these options won’t get it done.

Weigh Your Options Carefully

It will probably come as no surprise to you that the main reason surgery for TMJ is still popular is because insurance companies typically pay for it. Sadly, some people make health care decisions based on insurance coverage—whether it’s in their best interest or not.

And just to be clear… to each their own.

Think about it. It’s absurd to surgically operate on any joint in your body just because an insurance company pays for it, especially if there are less invasive options that are equally, if not more, effective.

But there’s another problem. What so many people are missing is this:

The number one reason people have TMJ pain and dysfunction is because their bite isn’t positioning their temporomandibular joints properly. If the TMJ surgery simply addresses the joint damage but doesn’t address the original, underlying cause of the problem, guess what? You still have a TMJ problem.

If I’ve learned anything in my 30-plus year career treating TMJ dysfunction, it’s this:

“You must treat the true, underlying cause of the TMJ problem to get lasting results.”

The Conservative Treatment Option: MIRO Therapy®

I’m sure you’re wondering what MIRO Therapy® is and how it will correct your TMJ.

Here’s what you need to know… In simplest terms, TMJ pain and dysfunction are caused by a misalignment of the bite and temporomandibular joints. They’re not in balance, in sync with each other.  

MIRO Therapy® uses advanced technology to identify the underlying cause of the misalignment and correct it once and for all without shots, drugs, or surgery. It’s so effective that the TMJ treatment results are unconditionally guaranteed, which ensures your treatment success.

Bottom line… whenever possible, choose a noninvasive treatment for TMJ dysfunction. Your joints will thank you for years to come.

To learn more about MIRO Therapy®, click here right now!

FAQs About TMJ Surgery vs. TMJ Treatments

When exploring treatment options for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, patients often face a choice between surgical interventions and various non-surgical treatments. 

This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about TMJ surgery versus TMJ treatments, providing insights into the latest and most effective approaches to alleviate discomfort and improve jaw functionality. 

Whether you’re considering surgery or seeking less invasive solutions, these FAQs aim to help you understand your options and choose the path that best suits your condition and lifestyle.

What Is the Best Treatment for TMJ Disorder?

The best treatment for TMJ disorder often depends on the severity and specific symptoms of the condition. Noninvasive treatments are generally preferred due to their lower risk and less drastic approach. 

MIRO Therapy®, for example, is highly effective for many patients. This treatment uses advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the underlying causes of TMJ dysfunction—typically misalignment—and addresses these without invasive procedures. 

Other noninvasive options such as oral splints, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes (like stress management and diet adjustments) have proven beneficial. These methods focus on relieving symptoms and improving jaw function without the potential complications of surgery.

What Not to Do During a TMJ Flare-Up 

During a TMJ flare-up, you should avoid certain actions and behaviors to prevent exacerbating the condition:

• Firstly, avoid eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods, as these can place additional strain on the jaw muscles and joints, potentially worsening pain and discomfort.
• Secondly, minimize jaw movements that cause pain or discomfort, such as wide yawning, loud singing, or extensive talking.
• Thirdly, manage stress effectively, as stress can lead to unconscious jaw clenching and grinding, which can aggravate TMJ symptoms.

Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress levels. Heat or ice packs can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles.

Lastly, maintain a posture that reduces strain on the neck and jaw, and under professional guidance, use exercises or massage therapy specifically targeted to ease TMJ symptoms.