Jaw Surgery for TMJ Disorder
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joint connecting the jaw to the skull, causing pain and limited movement.
Symptoms
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Difficulty opening mouth wide
- Headaches near temples
How Jaw Surgery Treats TMJ Disorder
Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) corrects skeletal irregularities of the jaw bones. It improves bite function, facial symmetry, and can resolve breathing issues including sleep apnea.
Procedure Steps
- 1Comprehensive diagnostic records
- 2Orthodontic preparation (often needed)
- 3Surgical jaw repositioning
- 4Post-surgical orthodontic refinement
Recovery Time:6-12 weeks
Average Cost:$5,000-$20,000
FAQ
When is jaw surgery necessary?
When orthodontics alone cannot correct the misalignment because the problem is skeletal rather than dental.
How long is recovery from jaw surgery?
Initial recovery takes 6-8 weeks. Full healing and final results may take 6-12 months.
Does TMJ disorder go away?
Mild cases may improve with self-care. Chronic TMJ disorder may require professional treatment.
What doctor treats TMJ?
Dentists, oral surgeons, and TMJ specialists can diagnose and treat TMJ disorders.