Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) can cause pain and dysfunction in the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. Issues may include limited mouth opening, jaw locking, joint clicking, and a number of arthritic conditions.

A diagnosis is based on a clinical examination and review of the patient’s history. In some cases, an X-ray, MRI scan, or CT scan may be required. For the majority of people, treatments will include simple medications, physiotherapy, or bite splint therapy. 

A small percentage of patients with TMD may benefit from treatment by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMFS). 

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive (hospital or out-patient) procedure where a tiny operating telescope (2.3 mm in diameter) is inserted into the joint to examine it, and a variety of miniaturized surgical instruments can be inserted to perform clean-out and repair procedures. 

Patients who have had their jaw joints affected by severe or destructive disease might require open surgery on the joint for repair or replacement of the disc, bone grafts, or artificial total joint replacements.