Why Nonsurgical TMJ Treatment?

Surgery is generally considered a last resort option for TMD, as it carries a higher risk of complications and may not always be effective. It's important to note that surgery may be recommended in rare cases where conservative treatments have not been effective, and the patient is experiencing severe, debilitating pain that impacts their quality of life. In these cases, the decision to proceed with surgery should be made after careful consideration and discussion with a qualified healthcare professional, such as Dr. Ashley Smitherman with Nonsurgical TMJ Austin. 

There are a few reasons why surgery is not typically recommended as a first-line treatment for TMD:

• TMD is a complex condition with a variety of possible causes, and surgery may not address the underlying issue. In many cases, the root cause of TMD symptoms can be addressed with more conservative treatments such as oral appliance therapy, physical therapy, or medication.
• Surgery carries a risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. These risks are higher in surgical procedures that involve the temporomandibular joint, as the joint is located in a complex area of the face with many important nerves and blood vessels.
• Surgery can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
• Surgery may not be effective in all cases. Some studies have shown that the success rate of surgical procedures for TMD is relatively low, and many patients continue to experience symptoms after surgery.