If you're suffering from severe TMD symptoms and conservative treatments have proven ineffective, total joint replacement may be a viable solution. In this blog, we will delve into the procedure with Dr. Randy Sanovich, recovery, and potential benefits and risks, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
Understanding TMD and Its Impact
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects the jaw joint, causing pain, limited jaw movement, and discomfort. Factors contributing to TMD can include jaw injury, arthritis, or structural issues. Common symptoms include jaw pain, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds, and headaches. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, total joint replacement becomes an option to restore normal joint function.
Total Joint Replacement for TMD
A thorough preoperative evaluation is crucial before considering total joint replacement. This involves a comprehensive review of your medical history, a physical examination, imaging tests such as CBCT scans, and 3D imaging, and referrals for additional tests like an MRI. This process helps determine the extent of joint deterioration and assess your overall health.
The Procedure
Total joint replacement entails replacing the damaged temporomandibular joint with a prosthetic (artificial) joint. The surgery is performed by board-certified surgeon Dr. Randy Sanovich with general anesthesia and usually takes several hours. He will remove the damaged joints and replace them with prosthetic materials that will replicate the natural joint structure and function.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After the procedure, you will undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation. This includes a hospital stay for a few days for close monitoring, pain management, and assistance with initial jaw movements. Post-operative care instructions will be provided, including a modified soft food diet and exercises to gradually regain your joint and jaw function. Therapies may be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve mobility.
Potential Benefits and Risks of Total Joint Replacement
Total joint replacement offers significant benefits, such as reduced pain, improved jaw function, and an enhanced quality of life. At Dallas Surgical Arts, our success rate is overwhelming, as we are able to virtually plan the surgery in advance for maximum precision, and can test for metal allergies to understand the likelihood of the prosthetic joint integration. It's important to acknowledge the potential risks associated with any surgical procedure, including infection, blood clots, and nerve damage, and discussing these risks and benefits thoroughly with Dr. Randy Sanovich and the Dallas Surgical Arts team is crucial for informed decision-making.
Surgery with Dr. Randy Sanovich
Total joint replacement is a surgical option that can provide relief for individuals with severe temporomandibular joint disorders. Consult with Dr. Randy Sanovich to determine if this procedure is right for you. Prioritize your health and enjoy a better quality of life with TMJ replacement at Dallas Surgical Arts!
Curious about TMJ surgery in Dallas? Call us today at (972) 776-4888 to learn more!