TMJ Disorders & TMJ Arthroscopy
Diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment for jaw joint pain, clicking, locking, and restricted movement.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull and is one of the most complex joints in the body. TMJ disorders can affect your ability to chew, speak, and open your mouth comfortably.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Limited mouth opening
- Locking of the jaw
- Ear pain or fullness
- Headaches or facial pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Jaw shifting to one side
TMJ problems may result from muscle tension, trauma, arthritis, structural changes, or internal joint derangements.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
TMJ dysfunction can develop due to:
- Joint inflammation
- Disc displacement
- Arthritis
- Jaw clenching or grinding
- Jaw misalignment
- Previous injury or trauma
- Bite abnormalities
- Stress-related muscle tension
A thorough clinical and imaging evaluation helps to determine the exact cause and guide treatment.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders
Conservative / Non-Surgical Management
Most TMJ problems improve with:
- Jaw rest and soft diet
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Muscle relaxants (as required)
- Occlusal splints (bite guards)
- Physiotherapy and jaw exercises
- Heat / cold therapy
- Behavioural and habit modification
These approaches aim to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and restore normal movement.
TMJ Arthroscopy — Minimally Invasive TMJ Surgery
TMJ arthroscopy is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure used for diagnosis and treatment of internal TMJ problems.
Through tiny incisions, a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint space, allowing direct visualization and treatment.
Conditions Treated with TMJ Arthroscopy:
- Disc displacement
- Joint inflammation
- Adhesions
- Limited mouth opening
- Clicking and locking
- Internal derangements
- Persistent pain not responding to conservative therapy
Benefits of TMJ Arthroscopy:
- Minimally invasive
- Faster recovery
- Small incisions with minimal scarring
- Less discomfort compared to open surgery
- Excellent diagnostic accuracy
- Ability to treat multiple issues within the joint simultaneously
Procedures Performed During Arthroscopy:
- Lavage (washing out inflammation)
- Lysis of adhesions
- Disc manipulation
- Injection of medications
- Smoothing irregular joint surfaces
TMJ arthroscopy helps restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve the long-term function of the joint.
When Is TMJ Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is considered when:
- Pain persists despite conservative treatments
- Mouth opening remains limited
- Jaw frequently locks
- Imaging shows disc displacement or structural abnormalities
- Arthroscopy is needed for diagnosis and treatment
Why Choose Dr. Thomas George Arayathinal for TMJ Care?
- Nearly 40 years of surgical experience
- Extensive expertise in TMJ disorders
- Skilled in minimally invasive TMJ arthroscopy
- Detailed examination and diagnosis
- Treatment plans tailored to each individual
- Strong long-term success rates
Book Your TMJ Evaluation
📞 Phone Numbers
- Phone 1: +971 54 792 6657
- Phone 2: +971 50 262 4958
- Phone 3: +800 23 ext. 4004 / 3953 / 3958
📧 Email Addresses
- WhatsApp 1: +971 54 792 6657
- WhatsApp 2: +971 50 262 4958
📍 Location
Burjeel Medical City
Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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