Elevate Oral Surgery provides exceptional care for your maxillofacial surgery needs. Our team of highly skilled and compassionate oral surgeons utilizes state-of-the-art technology and advanced techniques to deliver outstanding results. Comfort is the end goal of TMJ treatment in Northern Virginia. Your well-being throughout your TMJ treatment journey is always our primary focus.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joints are commonly known as TMJ. These intricate joints connect the jawbone to the skull. Along with the surrounding muscles and ligaments, these joints enable essential functions like speaking, chewing, and yawning. Stress or misalignment of this delicate system causes TMJ disorder. Teeth grinding or clenching, various forms of arthritis, previous injuries to the jaw or face, or even poor posture are contributing factors of TMJ. Individuals suffering from TMJ disorders experience a range of symptoms, primarily including discomfort or tenderness in the jaw. Other challenges include pain when eating, clicking or popping noises in the jaw, or even a sensation of the jaw locking. Other common issues include headaches, earaches, and generalized facial pain. If these issues persist without proper intervention, TMJ significantly disrupts daily life.
Questions to Ask Your Oral Surgeon About TMJ Surgery in Northern Virginia
Are there alternatives to TMJ surgery in Northern Virginia?
Yes, Botox treatments can effectively reduce muscle tension and pain associated with TMJ disorders. Botox provides significant relief for most patients.
When is TMJ surgery recommended?
TMJ surgery is typically considered when non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief for severe and persistent symptoms. It is often a last resort for patients who experience chronic, debilitating pain. Some patients also experience TMJ because of a structural problem within the joint, which requires surgery. Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation, including advanced imaging, to determine if you are a candidate for a surgical procedure.
What are the different types of surgery if Botox for TMJ does not work?
Options for TMJ surgery in Northern Virginia range from minimally invasive to more complex procedures. The type of surgery recommended depends on the severity and cause of your TMJ disorder.
- Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive and basic procedure to flush out debris and drain inflammatory fluids.
- Arthroscopy is the most common TMJ surgery. It is a minimally invasive technique that inserts a small camera to view the joint and instruments to diagnose and repair minor damage, remove scar tissue, or reposition the disc.
- Open-joint Surgery is also known as Arthroplasty. This traditional surgery focuses complex issues like a severely damaged joint, bone growths, or tumors. The surgeon makes an incision in front of the ear to access the joint directly, allowing for major repairs or reconstruction.
- Total Joint Replacement is for the most severe cases of joint degeneration. A custom prosthetic replaces the damaged joint.
What is the recovery period for TMJ surgery?
Recovery time varies widely depending on the type of procedure you undergo. For minimally invasive surgeries like arthrocentesis, most patients return to normal activities within a few days. More extensive procedures, such as open-joint surgery or total joint replacement, require a longer recovery period. Depending on the extensiveness of your TMJ surgery in Northern Virginia, recovery may take several weeks.
Treat TMJ with a Trusted Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
When seeking relief from TMJ disorders, patients should speak to an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. At Elevate Oral Surgery, our specialists are highly trained to diagnose and treat complex conditions like TMJ. We offer comprehensive evaluations to determine the underlying cause of your TMJ symptoms. Our team develops a personalized treatment plan, which may include TMJ surgery in Northern Virginia. Our expertise ensures you receive the most effective and appropriate care for your specific needs.
Trust Our Oral Surgery Team with Your TMJ Treatment in Northern Virginia
Elevate Oral Surgery provides expert and personalized care for TMJ treatment in Northern Virginia. We have four convenient locations for your convenience in Fairfax, Herndon, Gainesville, and West Springfield. Our skilled oral surgeons utilize cutting-edge technology to ensure your experience is calm and stress-free. At Elevate Oral Surgery, you will find more than just specialists; you will find partners committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health through procedures like TMJ treatment in Northern Virginia. For exceptional Northern Virginia maxillofacial oral surgery, contact our office today at 571-685-8037 to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations.
