TMJ Surgery
For complex or persistent TMJ disorders that can’t be resolved with conservative care, surgical treatment may be the right next step.
At Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are leaders in the full range of TMJ surgical procedures, from arthroscopic surgery to full joint reconstruction, to restore your comfort and jaw function.
Surgical Treatment for Complex TMJ Disorders
If you are suffering from severe TMJ dysfunction, surgery can be an effective path to lasting relief.
We recommend surgical treatment only after conservative options have been fully explored or when structural damage to the joint makes surgery the most reliable solution.
Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are among the few in the nation who routinely perform advanced TMJ procedures, including minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery and total joint replacement.
Using detailed imaging and a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, we pinpoint the exact cause of your TMJ disorder and design a surgical plan tailored to your unique needs.
Every decision is made in partnership with you, with your long-term comfort, jaw function, health, and overall well-being in mind.
When TMJ Pain Doesn’t Resolve
Oftentimes, patients consider TMJ surgery when non-surgical or conservative treatments haven’t provided enough relief or when there is structural damage within the jaw joint.
Symptoms of Severe TMJ Disorders
- Chronic or worsening jaw pain
- Locked jaw or inability to open the mouth fully
- Persistent facial soreness or pressure
- Clicking or grinding that worsens over time
- Trouble chewing or speaking
- Pain that radiates to the ears, head, or neck
Causes of Severe TMJ Disorders
- Degeneration or erosion of the joint
- Displacement or damage to the disc in the TMJ
- Trauma to the jaw, head, or neck
- Advanced arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid)
- Long-term teeth grinding or clenching
- Structural abnormalities of the jaw
Future Issues if Untreated
- Joint deterioration requiring full joint replacement
- Increased facial asymmetry or bite misalignment
- Loss of jaw mobility or function
- Long-term reliance on pain medication
- Impact on speech, eating, and social comfort
- Compromised quality of life and mental health
Advanced TMJ Surgical Solutions
At Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, our board-certified surgeons offer a full range of TMJ surgical procedures.
Guided by comprehensive diagnostics, we recommend the surgical approach best suited to your condition. Whether it involves a minimally invasive technique or full joint reconstruction, our goal is to restore natural, pain-free jaw function.
Dr. Moriera and the team at CCOFS completely changed my life. They’ve taken such good care of me and I can now live my life worry-free and without pain.
– Christian B.
Setting the Standard in TMJ Surgery
TMJ surgery is a highly specialized procedure that demands advanced training and precision for optimal outcomes.
At Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are nationally recognized for their expertise in diagnosing and treating complex TMJ and jaw disorders with advanced surgical procedures.
Our surgeons don’t just perform surgery. We help elevate the standard of patient care through innovation, education, and leadership in the field.
Unmatched Skill & Experience
With decades of combined experience, our surgeons have performed thousands of successful TMJ surgeries. Their specialized training and surgical expertise are unmatched, and the same advanced techniques we use in practice are those we teach to other surgeons nationwide.
Multi-Specialty Team
Our patients benefit from a collaborative team that includes orofacial pain specialists and anesthesiology experts. Together, we thoroughly evaluate each case to determine the most effective path for lasting relief and restored function.
Carolina’s Choice for TMJ Treatment
Choosing TMJ surgery is a big decision. At Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, you’ll be in the hands of a team that combines top-tier surgical expertise with compassionate, patient-focused care.
Our convenient and comfortable AAAHC-accredited surgical centers across North and South Carolina are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and advanced anesthesia capabilities to ensure your safety and comfort.
From diagnosis to recovery, we’re here every step of the way to deliver personalized, comprehensive care that restores your quality of life and leaves TMJ issues behind.
The TMJ Surgery Process
Patients who need TMJ surgery have typically exhausted conservative therapy and continue to experience jaw dysfunction or pain. Typically, those who need surgical intervention have some type of functional challenge with their jaw.
We take a thorough, step-by-step approach to treatment planning for TMJ surgery.
Comprehensive Consultation
Your evaluation begins with a comprehensive assessment by one of our oral and maxillofacial surgeons. During your exam, we will review your medical and treatment history, utilize advanced 3D imaging, and assess the condition of your jaw and TMJ function to determine treatment options.
Surgical Planning
Based on your diagnosis, your surgeon may recommend surgical treatments to improve your TMJ function, from minimally invasive TMJ arthroscopy to total joint replacement. You’ll review anesthesia and sedation options, receive pre-operative instructions, and have all your questions answered so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Procedure Day
On surgery day, you’ll be welcomed into a fully equipped surgical suite and cared for by our experienced surgical and anesthesia teams. Most TMJ procedures are outpatient, so you’ll return to the comfort of your home the same day to begin recovery.
Recovery & Follow-Up
You’ll leave with detailed recovery guidelines and post-op care instructions tailored to your procedure. We provide follow-up visits and healing checks, and we’re available to address any concerns during recovery 24/7, as your comfort, safety, and results are always our top priority.
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Your TMJ Surgical Experts
TMJ Surgery FAQ
If you’re considering surgery for TMJ disorder, it’s natural to have questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common concerns about procedures, recovery, cost, and coverage to help you feel informed and confident in your next steps.