Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are very important for human being. It helps us in every kind of work. When we eat or chew or move the head, temporomandibular joints makes it possible for us. These are shortly known as TMJ. Everyone has two TMJs. Both of them are located on either side of one’s jaw. Every TMJ has two parts which are the upper temporal bone and the mandible. The upper temporal bone is a part of human skull and on the other hand the mandible is part of a person’s lower jaw. This joint is a very important part of human body as it functions in speaking, eating, chewing etc. There is a disc in the joint of these two bones. TMJ disorder occurs when this disc is displaced. TMJDs cause facial pain. Other problems related to TMJ are headaches as painful as migraines, ringing in ears, pain that radiates trough neck and shoulders. The affected person can experience multiple problems.

In curing TMJ disorder, surgery is generally considered as the last option. People can find relief in minor cases by various exercises and medication. But in the more extreme cases surgery becomes a must. There are different procedures such as Arthrocentesis, Arthroscopy, Arthroplasty or arthrotomy, and Reconstruction or replacement. Arthrocentesis refers to the procedure involving lubricating the joints. This procedure helps to reduce inflammation. Arthroscopy is not a surgical treatment.

This involves putting a small telescope-like instrument in the affected area through a small incision. Arthroscopy helps doctors in finding out what is causing TMJ disorder. It also helps to figure out the most appropriate treatment. Arthroplasty or arthrotomy refers to making an incision in face near the affected area. This allows direct access to the affected joint. Another tissue from another part of body is used to reposition or replace the articular disc. Reconstruction or replacement is done when other procedures have failed. TMJ surgery can correct derangements of the joints. A post surgical procedure is necessary to ensure best result.

TMJ surgery involves the separating of the parts of the jaws joint. Following this, they are examined. Then it is sewn back together. A synthetic material is sometimes used to replace the disc. The procedure is not so scary or painful. TMJ surgery requires high level skill and care. To ensure the best result, post operation treatment is very important.  Primary treatments for TMJ are Medications, Physical therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Oral splints (mouth guards, bite guards) and Irrigation of the jaw joint (arthrocentesis). TMJ surgery is applied when all these have become useless. TMJ surgery works like magic and ensures total cure of patient.

TMJ Surgery terms:

• temporomandibular joints
• temporal mandibular joint
• where is the temporomandibular joint
• temporo mandibular joint
• temporomandibular joint pictures