TMJ & Jaw Surgery: When Surgery Becomes the Best Option

Living with chronic jaw pain can be exhausting. That persistent ache, the clicking sound when you chew, and the headaches that seem to come from nowhere can impact your quality of life. For many in Glendale, CA, these are daily symptoms of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. While many cases respond well to conservative treatments, there comes a point where surgery may become the best path toward lasting relief.At Infinite Dental Wellness, we understand that the thought of surgery can be intimidating. Our goal is to empower you with clear, honest information. We believe in a patient-first approach, starting with the most conservative options and only recommending surgery when it provides the most predictable and effective solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about TMJ disorders and the surgical options available, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

Before discussing solutions, it’s important to understand the problem. A TMJ disorder isn’t just one single issue but a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control chewing. Finding the right TMJ dentist near you in Glendale is the first step toward diagnosing the specific cause of your discomfort and finding a path to relief.

What the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) does

Your temporomandibular joints are the two hinges connecting your jawbone to your skull, located just in front of your ears. Think of them as complex sliding joints that allow you to talk, chew, and yawn. They are some of the most frequently used joints in your body. When they are working correctly, you barely notice them. But when there’s a problem, the pain and dysfunction can be significant.

Common TMJ symptoms — from jaw pain to headaches

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction can manifest in many ways, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Many people in our Glendale community experience one or more of the following:

• Jaw Pain: A dull, aching pain in and around the ear, face, or jaw joint. This is the most common complaint.
• Headaches: Frequent tension headaches or even migraines are often linked to TMJ issues.
• Ear Pain: Aching in or around the ear that isn’t caused by an ear infection.
• Clicking or Popping: A noticeable sound when you open or close your mouth. While not always painful, it can signal a problem with the joint’s disc.
• Locking: The jaw gets stuck in an open or closed position, which can be frightening and painful.
• Difficulty Chewing: Pain or discomfort while eating, making it hard to enjoy meals.
• Facial Swelling: Swelling on the side of your face can sometimes occur.

Causes of TMJ dysfunction (stress, trauma, bite misalignment)

There is no single cause of TMJ disorders. Often, it’s a combination of factors that leads to jaw joint pain and dysfunction. Some of the most common causes we see in patients include:

• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Chronic grinding or clenching, especially during sleep, puts immense pressure on the TMJ. Stress is a major contributor to this habit.
• Trauma: A direct injury to the jaw, head, or neck, such as from an accident or a blow, can damage the joint.
• Bite Misalignment (Malocclusion): When your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly, it can strain the jaw muscles and joints over time.
• Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing inflammation and breakdown of the joint cartilage.
• Disc Displacement: A small, shock-absorbing disc inside the joint can slip out of its proper position, leading to clicking and pain.

Conservative Treatments: The First Line of Defense

At Infinite Dental Wellness, our philosophy is always to start with the least invasive treatment options. For the majority of patients with TMJ disorders, non-surgical therapies are highly effective at managing symptoms and restoring function. We exhaust all conservative routes before ever considering surgery.

Nightguards, splints, and bite adjustments

One of the most common and effective forms of TMJ therapy in Glendale is the use of oral appliances. These are custom-fitted devices that you wear over your teeth.

• Nightguards: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom nightguard creates a protective barrier. It absorbs the forces of grinding, allowing your jaw muscles to relax and preventing further wear on your teeth.
• Splints: A TMJ splint is a more advanced appliance. It not only protects your teeth but is also designed to gently guide your jaw into a more optimal, relaxed position. This can help decompress the joint and reduce strain.
• Bite Adjustments: In some cases, we may perform minor adjustments to the chewing surfaces of your teeth to correct your bite. This helps distribute pressure more evenly and can provide significant jaw pain relief.

Physical therapy and lifestyle changes

Your daily habits can have a big impact on your TMJ health. We often recommend TMJ exercises and lifestyle modifications to complement our in-office treatments.

• Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can improve jaw movement and reduce muscle tension. We can guide you on the proper techniques.
• Dietary Changes: Sticking to soft foods when your symptoms flare up gives your jaw a chance to rest. Avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods like tough meats, hard candies, and chewing gum.
• Posture Awareness: Poor posture, especially leaning your head forward while working at a computer, can strain your neck and jaw muscles. Being mindful of your posture can help.

Medication and stress management techniques

Pain and inflammation are often part of the TMJ experience. We may recommend short-term use of medications to help you get through a flare-up.

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Muscle Relaxants: For severe muscle spasms, a prescription muscle relaxant may be used for a short period to break the pain cycle.

Since stress is a major trigger for teeth grinding and muscle tension, stress management is a key part of non-surgical TMJ treatment. Techniques like meditation, yoga, or even taking a walk can make a real difference.

When non-surgical treatments work — and when they don’t

For many patients, a combination of these conservative treatments brings significant or complete relief. They work best for TMJ disorders caused by muscle tension, mild joint inflammation, and teeth grinding. However, non-surgical treatments may not be enough when there is a structural problem within the joint itself, such as severe disc displacement, advanced arthritis, or damage from an injury. If your pain persists or worsens despite these efforts, it may be time to explore other options.

When TMJ Surgery Becomes the Best Option

Making the decision to proceed with TMJ surgery is a significant step, and it’s one we take very seriously. We only recommend it when we are confident that conservative treatments have been fully explored and are no longer providing the relief you need to live comfortably.

Signs conservative care is no longer enough

How do you know when you’ve reached that point? The signs are usually clear. If you’ve been diligent with your nightguard, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes for several months but still experience persistent pain, limited jaw movement, or locking, surgery may be the next logical step. The goal of advanced TMJ treatment is not just to mask symptoms but to correct the underlying structural problem causing them.

How imaging and diagnostic exams guide the decision

A decision for surgery is never based on symptoms alone. It is a data-driven process. We use advanced TMJ imaging and diagnostic tools to get a precise look at what is happening inside your jaw joint.

• 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) Scans: This technology gives us a detailed, three-dimensional view of the joint bones. It allows us to see signs of arthritis, bone degeneration, or structural abnormalities with incredible clarity.
• MRI Scans: While a CT scan is excellent for bone, an MRI is the best tool for visualizing soft tissues. It can show us the position and condition of the small disc inside the joint, helping us diagnose a displaced disc or other soft tissue problems.

These diagnostic exams help us confirm if a surgical intervention is necessary and, if so, which specific procedure will be most effective.

Individualized treatment planning at Infinite Dental Wellness

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to TMJ surgery in Glendale. Your treatment plan is tailored specifically to you. Based on your symptoms, your diagnostic imaging results, and your personal goals, we determine the most appropriate surgical TMJ correction. We will explain our findings to you in simple terms, show you your scans, and discuss the pros and cons of each option so that you feel fully informed and confident in the path forward.

Surgical Options for TMJ Disorders

When surgery is deemed necessary, there are several different TMJ surgical options available. The type of procedure recommended depends on the specific problem within your joint. We always aim for the most minimally invasive option that will achieve the desired result.

TMJ Arthroscopy — minimally invasive joint repair

TMJ arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that is often our first surgical choice. It involves making a very small incision in front of the ear and inserting a tiny camera (an arthroscope) into the joint space. This allows us to see inside the joint without making a large opening. We can then insert small surgical instruments to flush out inflammatory debris, remove scar tissue, or even reposition a displaced disc. Recovery from TMJ arthroscopy in Glendale is typically faster than with more invasive surgeries.

Arthroplasty — reshaping or cleaning the joint surface

Arthroplasty is an “open-joint” procedure, meaning it requires a larger incision to directly access the joint. This surgery is recommended when there is a problem with the bone surfaces of the joint, such as bone spurs from arthritis or other irregularities. During arthroplasty jaw surgery, the surgeon can smooth or reshape the bone to allow for smoother movement. This procedure is more involved than arthroscopy but can be very effective for specific structural issues.

Joint Replacement — for severe TMJ damage

In the most severe cases, where the jaw joint is badly degenerated from advanced arthritis or a significant injury, a TMJ joint replacement may be the only option to restore function and eliminate pain. Similar to a hip or knee replacement, this procedure involves removing the damaged parts of the joint and replacing them with a custom-made artificial joint. While this is the most extensive TMJ surgery, it can be life-changing for patients with debilitating pain and dysfunction.

Jaw Repositioning Surgery — correcting structural misalignment

Sometimes, the TMJ problem is related to the alignment of the jaws themselves. Orthognathic surgery, or jaw repositioning surgery, is a procedure designed to correct these structural misalignments. By repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, we can create a more stable and functional bite. This can relieve the chronic strain on the TMJ and muscles. This type of surgery is often planned in collaboration with an oral surgeon and an orthodontist.

What to Expect Before, During, and After TMJ Surgery

Understanding the entire process can help ease any anxiety you may have about surgery. We ensure our patients are well-prepared for every phase of their treatment, from the initial evaluation to the final follow-up visit.

Pre-surgical evaluation and imaging

Before your surgery, you will have a comprehensive pre-surgical evaluation. This includes taking final TMJ imaging, such as a 3D CBCT scan, to create a precise surgical plan. We will review your medical history, answer all of your last-minute questions, and provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for your surgery day, including guidelines on eating and drinking.

What happens during TMJ surgery

TMJ surgery is performed by a specialized oral and maxillofacial surgeon, often in a hospital or surgical center. You will be under general anesthesia, so you will be completely asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. The surgeon will perform the specific procedure planned for you, whether it’s an arthroscopy, arthroplasty, or joint replacement. The duration of the surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure.

Recovery time and healing process

Your TMJ surgery recovery in Glendale will depend on the type of surgery you had.

• Arthroscopy: Recovery is relatively quick. You may have some swelling and soreness for a few days, and you’ll need to stick to a soft diet for a week or two. Many people can return to work or school within a few days.
• Open-Joint Surgery (Arthroplasty or Replacement): The recovery is more involved. You can expect more significant swelling and discomfort for the first week. You will be on a liquid or very soft diet for several weeks to allow the joint to heal without stress. The full healing after jaw surgery can take a few months.

We will provide you with a detailed guide for post-op care, including pain management instructions and dietary recommendations.

Follow-up visits and physical therapy after surgery

Follow-up care is critical for a successful outcome. You will have several TMJ follow-up visits with your surgeon to monitor your healing. Once you get the green light, starting TMJ physical therapy is one of the most important parts of your recovery. A physical therapist will guide you through specific exercises to restore your jaw’s range of motion, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and ensure you achieve the best possible long-term function.

Risks and Benefits of TMJ Surgery

Every surgical procedure comes with potential risks and benefits. A key part of our commitment to you is having an open and honest conversation about both, so you can weigh your options with a full understanding of the potential outcomes.

Potential risks and how we minimize them

Like any surgery, TMJ surgery carries potential risks, such as infection, nerve injury, or a reaction to anesthesia. Nerve injury, which can cause temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness or weakness in parts of the face, is a specific concern. However, the TMJ surgery success rate is very high, and serious complications are rare. We minimize these TMJ surgery risks by working with highly experienced oral surgeons, using precise 3D imaging for planning, and following strict sterilization protocols. Our approach to safe jaw surgery in Glendale is meticulous.

The benefits of improved comfort and function

For the right patient, the benefits of TMJ surgery are transformative. The primary goal is a significant reduction or complete elimination of chronic jaw pain. The benefits often include:

• Relief from chronic headaches.
• The ability to eat comfortably without pain.
• Elimination of jaw locking.
• Improved range of motion in your jaw.
• An overall improvement in your quality of life.

What long-term success looks like

Long-term success means you are able to live your life without being controlled by jaw pain. It means being able to eat, talk, and smile with confidence. Successful TMJ outcomes depend on both a successful surgery and your commitment to post-operative care, especially physical therapy. With the right procedure and follow-through, you can expect lasting relief and restored function for years to come.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Having realistic expectations is vital for a positive surgical experience. It’s important to understand what TMJ surgery can achieve, as well as its limitations, and to be prepared for the recovery journey ahead.

What TMJ surgery can and can’t do

TMJ surgery can be incredibly effective at correcting structural problems within the joint, relieving pain, and improving function. It can fix a displaced disc, remove arthritic bone, and stabilize a damaged joint. However, it cannot eliminate stress from your life, which may be a contributing factor to muscle tension. That’s why a holistic approach that includes stress management and physical therapy is so important. The jaw surgery results Glendale patients experience are best when the physical correction is supported by healthy habits.

Understanding the recovery journey

Recovery is a process, not a single event. There will be good days and days where you feel more tired or sore. It’s important to be patient with your body and follow your post-operative instructions carefully. The TMJ recovery timeline varies for everyone, but committing to the process, especially your physical therapy exercises, is the surest way to achieve your desired outcome.

How your comfort and confidence guide every decision

From your first consultation to your final follow-up, your comfort and confidence are our top priorities. We will never rush you into a decision. We take the time to answer every question and explain every detail until you feel completely at ease. We see ourselves as your partners in this journey, and every decision we make is guided by what is best for your health and well-being.

Our Approach to TMJ & Jaw Surgery in Glendale

Treating complex TMJ disorders requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. At Infinite Dental Wellness, we have built a network of trusted specialists and utilize the latest technology to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of care.

Collaboration with oral surgeons, orthodontists, and physical therapists

We believe in a team approach. As your primary TMJ dentist in Glendale, we coordinate your care with a team of experts. We work closely with the top oral surgeons in the Glendale, CA area for the surgical phase of your treatment. If bite alignment is a factor, we collaborate with skilled orthodontists. And we partner with experienced physical therapists who specialize in TMJ rehabilitation. This TMJ multidisciplinary care ensures all aspects of your condition are addressed.

Advanced 3D imaging and treatment planning

Precision is everything in TMJ treatment. Our use of advanced 3D imaging, like Cone Beam CT scans, is at the core of our diagnostic and planning process. This technology allows us and our surgical partners to plan your procedure with unparalleled accuracy, which translates to safer, more predictable outcomes.

Focused on conservative care first, surgery only when needed

We want to restate this because it is the foundation of our practice philosophy. Surgery is always a last resort. We are dedicated to providing the most conservative care possible and will only recommend surgery when we are certain it is the best and only way to achieve lasting relief for you. We are proud to be a local TMJ dentist in Glendale that patients trust to have their best interests at heart.

Personalized care for every TMJ patient

You are not just a set of symptoms or a scan. You are a unique individual, and your care will reflect that. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your concerns, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your specific needs. This personalized approach is the hallmark of the care we provide at Infinite Dental Wellness.

Real Patient Success Stories

The true measure of our success is the improved lives of our patients. While we protect patient privacy, the themes of their stories are consistent and powerful.

From chronic jaw pain to lasting relief

We have helped many patients who came to us after years of suffering from debilitating jaw pain and headaches. They had tried everything and were losing hope. For these patients, successful jaw pain treatment in Glendale through surgery was a turning point. They often tell us they wish they hadn’t waited so long to explore a surgical option.

Full-function restorations through TMJ surgery

Many success stories involve restoring simple daily functions that most people take for granted. We’ve had patients who could barely eat a sandwich without pain who are now able to enjoy all their favorite foods again. These full-function restorations, often seen in TMJ surgery before and after cases, have a profound impact on a person’s daily happiness.

How personalized care changed patients’ lives

The feedback we receive most often centers on our compassionate, personalized care. Patients tell us they felt heard, respected, and supported throughout the entire process. Knowing they had a team they could trust made all the difference in their journey from pain to recovery. These successful TMJ cases in Glendale are a testament to what is possible with the right team and the right approach.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ & Jaw Surgery

It’s natural to have questions, and we’re here to provide clear answers. Here are some of the most common questions we hear about TMJ and jaw surgery.

How do I know if I need TMJ surgery?

You may be a candidate for TMJ surgery if you have a diagnosed structural problem in your jaw joint (like a displaced disc or arthritis) and you have not found relief after several months of consistent conservative treatment (like nightguards and physical therapy). The decision is made after a thorough examination and advanced imaging.

Is TMJ surgery painful?

You will be under general anesthesia during the surgery, so you won’t feel anything. After the surgery, you can expect some pain and soreness, which is managed with prescribed pain medication. The level of discomfort depends on the type of surgery, but we work to keep you as comfortable as possible during recovery.

How long does it take to recover from TMJ surgery?

The jaw surgery recovery time varies. For a minimally invasive arthroscopy, you might feel mostly back to normal in a week or two. For more extensive open-joint surgery, it can take several weeks for the initial healing and several months to regain full, comfortable function with the help of physical therapy.

Will insurance cover TMJ surgery?

Coverage for TMJ surgery varies widely between insurance plans. In many cases, if the surgery is deemed “medically necessary” to correct a diagnosed joint problem and restore function, it is covered by medical insurance, not dental insurance. We accept all PPO insurance plans for the diagnostic phase of your care. Our team will help you understand your benefits and provide the necessary documentation to your insurance provider to seek pre-authorization. We also offer financing options, as we do not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal.

Can TMJ surgery fix jaw clicking and headaches?

Yes, for many people it can. If your jaw clicking is caused by a displaced disc that is repositioned during surgery, the clicking often resolves. If your chronic TMJ headaches are caused by the constant strain on your jaw muscles from a dysfunctional joint, correcting the joint problem can lead to a significant reduction or elimination of those headaches.