Jaw Replacement Surgery
If you are suffering from TMJ disorder and other treatments have failed to relieve your symptoms, a total TMJ replacement could be the answer you’ve been looking for. Trust in our expertise to help you live a normal, pain-free life once more. Book your consultation today.
Why have a jaw joint replacement?
Significantly improve your ability to eat and speak.
Eliminate pain, clicking, and other TMJ problems.
A final option when other treatments have failed to work.
Can be used for a number of conditions, including osteoarthritis.
A full repair for a jaw that has been damaged by an accident or trauma.
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What is jaw replacement surgery?
Jaw replacement surgery is a cutting-edge procedure which uses innovative techniques to completely replace the joints between your lower jaw and the base of your skull. Custom-made titanium and ultra high density polyethylene prosthetic joints ensure outstanding results for a wide range of jaw defects.
We are proud to use our expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery to treat complex cases, offering a solution to people who have not seen results from other TMJ treatments. Luke Cascarini carried out the first total jaw replacement with a titanium implant in the UK, so you can be sure you are in safe hands.
What does jaw replacement surgery involve?
Consultation
At your consultation, we discuss your case, including the treatments that have failed to work for your jaw problems. We talk you through the TMJ replacement surgery in fine detail, making sure you understand the process and know what to expect. We also give you the chance to ask any questions you may have for us.
Planning
The planning and manufacture of your new jaw joint is a lengthy and complex process which takes around three months. We use a specialised CT scan to see a detailed picture inside your jaw, which is then used to create the first drafts of your replacement joint. The drafts are tweaked and changed until we are completely happy they are perfect for you. Your new jaw joint is then built over a period of six weeks.
Surgery
Your jaw replacement surgery is carried out by our expert consultant. You are under general anaesthetic for the duration of surgery, which takes approximately 1.5 hours per side.
Recovery
When your surgical procedure has been completed, you will remain in hospital for 2-4 nights, depending on the complexity of your case. After this, you will need to continue your recovery at home. We give you some tailored advice for your recovery, including when you will likely be able to return to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jaw replacement surgery is seen as a final treatment, used for those patients who have not had successful outcomes with other TMJ treatment options.
It is best suited for patients with the following conditions:
- Extreme osteoarthritis which is causing significant pain and restricted function
- Other forms of arthritis which is having a destructive effect on the jaw joint
- Severe TMJ disorder
- Complex bone infection
- A cancerous tumour which has forced the removal of part of the jaw joint and bone
- A damaged jaw following trauma or an accident
During surgery, anaesthetic is used to ensure you won’t feel any pain. During your recovery, you will experience pain and swelling for a few days, but we help you manage this with suitable medication.
Yes, general anaesthetic is used for jaw replacement surgery. You will be unconscious throughout.
Full recovery from jaw replacement surgery can take 6-12 months. However, most people feel pretty much back to normal in 2-3 months, with a jaw that is functioning significantly better than it was prior to surgery.
We are exceptionally careful and precise during surgery to ensure scarring is kept to a minimum. Just two cuts are needed for TMJ replacement. One is just in front of your ear, and leaves a virtually invisible scar. The other cut is made to your upper neck, and leaves a scar that is really only visible if you look closely or know it is there.
While TMJ replacement offers significant benefits, it’s important to understand the potential risks. Like any surgery, infection is a concern. You’ll also be tested for allergies to the implant materials, with full-titanium options available if needed. Specific TMJ replacement risks include facial swelling, temporary nerve weakness, abnormal nerve tissue growth, ear issues, and potential for continued pain in those with long-standing chronic pain (who may then be referred to a pain specialist).
