How effective is TMJ surgery?

February 15, 2025

The TMJ No More™(The TMJ Solution) by Christian Goodman  if you are suffering from the disorder of TMJ and problems related to tinnitus then The TMJ No More, written by Christian Goodman, can be very beneficial for you. Along with eradicating your health problems within a few days, it will also help in improving the quality of your life to a considerable level. This system is being used by more and more people all over the world to get rid of TMJ and tinnitus-related health problems within a few days just by doing some very easy and natural exercises.


How effective is TMJ surgery?

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) surgery can be effective for treating severe cases of TMJ disorders that do not respond to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or dental splints. However, its effectiveness depends on the specific nature of the TMJ disorder, the type of surgery performed, and individual patient factors. Below is an overview of the effectiveness of TMJ surgery, including the different types of surgeries, outcomes, and considerations.

Types of TMJ Surgery

There are several types of surgery options for TMJ disorders, each with its own level of effectiveness depending on the underlying cause of the problem.

1. Arthroscopy

  • Effectiveness: Generally considered effective for addressing inflammation, cartilage damage, or disc displacement in the TMJ. This minimally invasive surgery can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore joint movement.
  • Success Rates: Studies suggest a high success rate (70%-90%) for pain relief and improvement in jaw function, especially when conservative treatments have not worked.
  • Recovery: Recovery time is relatively short, and patients typically experience minimal discomfort compared to more invasive procedures.

2. Arthroplasty (Open Joint Surgery)

  • Effectiveness: Arthroplasty involves removing or reshaping damaged tissue, such as the articular disc or the joint surface itself. It may be performed if there is severe joint degeneration or structural damage, such as when the disc is displaced and non-repositionable.
  • Success Rates: The effectiveness can be high (75%-80%) in terms of pain reduction and improved jaw movement. However, it is a more invasive procedure, and complications like scar tissue formation, joint stiffness, or limited movement can occur.
  • Recovery: Recovery time is longer than with arthroscopy, and physical therapy is often required to regain full jaw movement.

3. Joint Replacement Surgery (Total Joint Arthroplasty)

  • Effectiveness: For severe cases where the TMJ has significant damage, such as advanced arthritis or extensive bone degeneration, joint replacement surgery might be necessary. This involves replacing the damaged TMJ with a prosthetic joint.
  • Success Rates: The procedure is highly effective in improving function and alleviating pain, with success rates of around 80%-90% for long-term relief. However, it is a major surgery and carries greater risks compared to other TMJ surgeries.
  • Recovery: Recovery is more extensive, with a longer hospital stay and significant rehabilitation required. Patients often need months to fully recover and regain proper jaw movement.

4. Discectomy and Disc Repositioning

  • Effectiveness: In cases where the articular disc (which acts as a cushion between the bones of the TMJ) is displaced, damaged, or causing problems, surgery to remove or reposition the disc can be effective.
  • Success Rates: Success rates vary, but studies indicate around 60%-80% improvement in pain and jaw function. If the disc is removed, there may be a risk of further degeneration over time.
  • Recovery: Recovery time can vary based on the extent of the surgery. Rehabilitation often includes physical therapy to improve jaw movement.

5. Resection of the Lateral Pterygoid Muscle

  • Effectiveness: If the lateral pterygoid muscle (which controls jaw movement) is overactive or spastic, resection (removal) of part of the muscle can reduce tension and pain.
  • Success Rates: This surgery can be effective for those with muscle-related TMJ dysfunction, and pain relief can be significant in some cases.
  • Recovery: Recovery is typically shorter, but patients may need follow-up care to ensure proper healing.

Effectiveness in Treating TMJ Disorders

TMJ surgery can be highly effective for severe cases where non-surgical treatments have not provided relief. The most common symptoms that improve with surgery include:

  • Chronic jaw pain
  • Limited jaw movement
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the joint
  • Locking of the jaw

Factors Affecting Effectiveness

The success of TMJ surgery depends on several factors:

  1. Severity of the Condition: Surgery tends to be more effective for patients with severe or advanced TMJ disorders, such as joint degeneration or irreparable disc displacement.
  2. Type of Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopy generally have higher success rates with shorter recovery times, while more invasive surgeries like joint replacement carry higher risks but may be necessary for severe cases.
  3. Patient Health: Overall health, age, and the presence of comorbid conditions (like arthritis) can affect recovery and the long-term success of surgery.
  4. Rehabilitation: Post-surgical rehabilitation, including physical therapy, is essential for achieving the best outcome. Failure to follow post-operative care and rehabilitation protocols can lead to less favorable results.

Risks and Complications

While TMJ surgery can be effective, it also carries some risks and potential complications, including:

  • Infection at the surgical site
  • Nerve damage, leading to numbness or altered sensation in the face
  • Scar tissue formation, leading to limited jaw movement
  • Relapse of symptoms in some cases
  • Joint stiffness or misalignment after surgery

Conclusion

TMJ surgery can be highly effective for individuals with severe TMJ disorders who have not found relief from conservative treatments. Arthroscopy and other minimally invasive surgeries are often successful in alleviating pain and restoring joint function. However, more invasive surgeries like joint replacement are reserved for cases of significant damage and carry a longer recovery period and greater risk. The effectiveness of the procedure depends on the nature of the TMJ disorder, the type of surgery, and the patient’s individual health status. Proper post-surgical care and rehabilitation are critical for ensuring the best possible outcome.

The TMJ No More™(The TMJ Solution) by Christian Goodman  if you are suffering from the disorder of TMJ and problems related to tinnitus then The TMJ No More, written by Christian Goodman, can be very beneficial for you. Along with eradicating your health problems within a few days, it will also help in improving the quality of your life to a considerable level. This system is being used by more and more people all over the world to get rid of TMJ and tinnitus-related health problems within a few days just by doing some very easy and natural exercises