Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

Enquiries & appointments

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition affecting the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, leading to pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement. This disorder can severely impact daily life, making simple tasks like eating, speaking, and yawning painful and difficult.

Why choose TMJ Treatment?

TMJ surgery offers a solution for those suffering from symptoms, providing relief from pain and restoring normal jaw function. By addressing the underlying issues, such as joint damage or misalignment, TMJ surgery can significantly improve quality of life, allowing patients to return to their daily activities with comfort and ease.

Levels of TMJ Treatment

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) can be managed through various treatments, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Initial approaches include self-care practices, medications, physical therapy, and dental splints or mouthguards. For more persistent cases, injections and minimally invasive procedures like arthrocentesis and arthroscopy can provide relief. In severe cases, open-joint surgery or total joint replacement may be necessary.

These treatments aim to reduce pain and restore normal jaw function, improving the quality of life for those affected.

TMJ FAQs

Does TMJ affect other places apart from the jaw?

Your ears, mouth, nose and throat are all connected. Meaning you could have discomfort and pain in any of these areas.

Will TMJ go away on its own?

If the pain subsides within a few weeks there is no need for medical attention. However, if the symptoms continue past that it is important that you speak to a Doctor as it will just get worse over time.

What can I eat after a TMJ treatment?

After TMJ treatment, it’s important to consume foods that are easy to chew and won’t strain the jaw.

Suitable options include:

  • Soft Foods: Mashed potatoes, Scrambled eggs, Yogurt.
  • Blended Foods: Smoothies, Milkshakes, Soups.
  • Soft Protein: Cooked fish, Tofu
  • Soft Fruits: Bananas, Raspberries, Strawberries

Can you talk after a TMJ treatment?

You can commonly talk after a TMJ treatment, however this depends on the treatment you receive. In most cases you are likely to feel sore and slightly swollen but should have no problem talking. It is important to follow your Doctor’s advice following your appointment, this may include speaking softly, using short phrases, and avoiding jaw movement during the recovery period.

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Our team are on hand to help answer any queries you might have about coming to KIMS Hospital or Sevenoaks Medical Centre. You can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch. Alternatively to speak to a member of our team, please call 01622 237 727.

Enquiry hours are Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm.

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If you would like to book an appointment, you can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch.

Alternatively to speak to a member of our friendly team, please call 01622 237 500 between Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm.

Please be aware, if you are requesting a diagnostic scan such as an MRI, or CT, you must have a referral from a relevant clinician or Allied Health professional such as a physiotherapist.

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