ABOUT TMJ
TMJ, short for temporomandibular joint(s), is a condition affecting the jaw joints that connect your lower jawbone to your skull. This joint is crucial for basic jaw movements like chewing, talking, and yawning. When something goes wrong with this joint, it can cause pain and discomfort, affecting your ability to perform everyday activities.
TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT(S)
Dr. Gallagher does amazing work! He is kind and personal, professional, and effective. His follow-up with his patients ensures great results and a permanent healing of TMJ issues. He even includes his personal cell phone number to his patients in case of emergency. I highly recommend him. His office staff is amazing too! They are so caring and concerned for their patients.
TMJ AND JAW ANATOMY
The relationship between jaw alignment, the bite (occlusion), and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is intricate and interconnected. Proper alignment and function of the TMJ, jawbones, and bite are vital for maintaining oral health and preventing disorders that can lead to pain, discomfort, and restricted jaw movement.
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are a crucial component of the jaw, connecting the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull.
The TMJ disc, a small, flexible cartilage, plays a vital role in this system by acting as a cushion between the mandible and temporal bone, ensuring smooth articulation and preventing bone friction.
The TMJ works in harmony with the teeth (bite) and surrounding muscles, ensuring smooth and coordinated movements.
TMJ and Jaw Movement
Proper movement of the TMJ is vital for chewing, speaking, comfort, and overall oral and facial health. It ensures efficient food processing, clear communication, pain-free jaw function, and the prevention of TMJ disorders.
Maintaining proper TMJ function is essential for daily life and overall well-being.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Jaw misalignment
or abnormal movements
Clicking or popping sounds in jaw
Clenching or grinding teeth
Difficulty opening mouth or chewing
Headaches or earaches
Pain in neck
or shoulders
Jaw becomes locked or stuck
Jaw or tooth
pain when eating
Types of Treatment
TMJ treatment focuses on identifying and correcting the root problems. Potential treatments include:
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Customized Bite/Occlusion Splint
A mouth splint helps by repositioning the jaw to alleviate strain, relaxing tense muscles, protecting teeth from grinding, stabilizing the joint, reducing pain, and improving jaw function. Different types of splints are used based on individual needs and should be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Diet Changes
Diet changes help by reducing jaw strain and minimizing pain. Eating soft foods, avoiding hard or chewy items, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods can alleviate symptoms.
Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine also aid in muscle relaxation and symptom relief.
Bite Stabilization
Stabilizing the bite addresses the root causes of TMJ dysfunction, leading to improved comfort, function, and long-term oral health. This can involve approaches, such as physical therapy, exercises, and orthodontic treatments, aiming to reduce stress on the TMJ, and improve jaw function.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery helps by realigning the jaw to improve bite function and reduce strain on the temporomandibular joints. By addressing structural issues, the surgery provides long-term relief and improves daily activities such as eating, speaking, and sleeping.
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TMJ Surgery
TMJ surgery directly addresses structural problems within the temporomandibular joints. It can repair or remove damaged tissues, realign the jaw, and improve joint function. The surgery aims to restore proper jaw mechanics, improve bite alignment, and improve overall jaw function and quality of life.
TMJ SURGERY
What Dr. Gallagher needs you to know:
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Pre-SurgeryBefore any treatment commences, patients undergo a thorough examination, including x-rays and MRI's to assess their oral health and determine the best course of action. Dr. Gallagher works closely with your dental team throughout the treatment process to ensure optimal results. Prior to surgery, patients receive extensive preoperative education to understand what to expect and how to manage post-surgery care effectively. Multiple consultations are conducted to address any concerns and ensure patients feel confident about the procedure. Patients are encouraged to ask any questions they may have, as the dental team is dedicated to providing support and guidance throughout the process. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
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ProcedureThe surgery itself can last between 1 to 4 hours and is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient setting. It is rare for patients to stay overnight following orthognathic surgery. During the procedure, braces remain on the teeth to assist in controlling jaw position while the patient heals. Both the orthodontist and Dr. Gallagher work together to move the teeth and adjust the upper and/or lower jaws as needed.
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RecoveryFollowing surgery, patients can expect to be off work or school for approximately 10 to 12 days. They will also be placed on a non-chew diet for a minimum of 3 months, during which only soft foods that do not require chewing are permitted. Weekly appointments are necessary during the first month after surgery to monitor healing progress and make any adjustments as needed. We highly encourage every patient follow the post-surgery instructions provided by Dr. Gallagher's office.
CALL US TODAY!
Dr. Dale Gallagher and our team are here to help patients who are suffering with TMJ disorders, providing relief from pain and discomfort. We understand some patients have been through previous procedures and have not experienced successful outcomes. That is why Dr. Gallagher encourages you to schedule your consultation, to get on the correct path to identify your jaw problems, and the appropriate treatment that you may need.
TMJ Surgery
Dr. Gallagher and his team are wonderful, compassionate, and experts in all areas related to TMJ, jaw, and pain issues. I had a great experience with my surgery and post-op recovery process and would recommend that anyone consult with this team to improve jaw pain and oral health. Alma is also especially caring and a great part of the team. I don’t have any more pain and I’m so thankful for this team!
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Pre-SurgeryBefore any treatment commences, patients undergo a thorough examination, including x-rays and MRI's to assess their oral health and determine the best course of action. Dr. Gallagher works closely with your dental team throughout the treatment process to ensure optimal results. Prior to surgery, patients receive extensive preoperative education to understand what to expect and how to manage post-surgery care effectively. Multiple consultations are conducted to address any concerns and ensure patients feel confident about the procedure. Patients are encouraged to ask any questions they may have, as the dental team is dedicated to providing support and guidance throughout the process. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
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ProcedureThe surgery itself can last between 1 to 4 hours and is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient setting. It is rare for patients to stay overnight following orthognathic surgery. During the procedure, braces remain on the teeth to assist in controlling jaw position while the patient heals. Both the orthodontist and Dr. Gallagher work together to move the teeth and adjust the upper and/or lower jaws as needed.
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RecoveryFollowing surgery, patients can expect to be off work or school for approximately 10 to 12 days. They will also be placed on a non-chew diet for a minimum of 3 months, during which only soft foods that do not require chewing are permitted. Weekly appointments are necessary during the first month after surgery to monitor healing progress and make any adjustments as needed. We highly encourage every patient follow the post-surgery instructions provided by Dr. Gallagher's office.
