Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the lower jaw to the skull. We need these joints to speak, eat and fully use our jaw. TMJ disorders can damage this joint and affect jaw growth and function. While we can treat many TMJ disorders without surgery, severe TMJ damage can require surgical intervention to restore jaw function.   

Our surgeons have expertise managing complex pediatric and adolescent TMJ disorders, including conditions associated with craniofacial syndromes, autoimmune disease and severe skeletal deformities.

If you have TMJ pain, you’ll first work with your dentist to try to treat the problem. They may refer you to our surgical team if needed. You’ll receive a complete evaluation, which includes:

• A detailed clinical exam
• Advanced imaging, including MRI and CT or CBCT for a 3D X-ray
• Assessment of jaw growth and facial development

Your surgical team also works closely with rheumatologists, pain management specialists, orthodontists, physical therapists and craniofacial specialists when needed.

Based on the exam, you’ll receive a treatment plan that may include:

• Arthrocentesis
• Arthroplasty
• Combined TMJ and orthognathic surgery
• Costochondral graft reconstruction
• Disc repositioning procedures
• Gap arthroplasty for ankylosis
• Patient-specific total TMJ replacement

TMJ surgery may help:

• Correct facial asymmetry
• Improve airway function when needed
• Improve jaw function and mouth opening
• Prevent skeletal differences from getting worse
• Relieve pain
• Restore joint stability