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What Is Cartilage Disc Repair and Repositioning?
For multiple reasons, including injury, the articular disc in the jaw can be damaged or displaced, causing a range of issues, including intense pain. Cartilage disc repair and repositioning is a surgical procedure that allows us to work with the damaged or displaced cartilage, restoring functionality in the area. It is a surgical procedure, so downtime should be expected as you recover, but the results should help you resume a normal, happier life without the constant presence of pain in the jaw.
Who Is a Candidate for Cartilage Disc Repair and Repositioning?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for cartilage disc repair and repositioning. Candidates who can benefit from this procedure are those struggling with intense pain and frustration due to displacement or damage of their articular disc. Ideal candidates are generally healthy and either do not smoke or are willing to stop both before the procedure and during the recovery process. During your consultation, we’ll also go over your medical history to make sure that you don’t have any conditions that could hinder the healing process or present risk to you.
Adam Eidson, DDS, FACS
Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
As a top Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, he’s board-certified and a Fellow of leading surgical associations. Co-founder of TruForm Surgery, Dr. Eidson, a Grand Haven, Michigan native, served as a Major in the US Army, specializing in jaw disorders and trauma cases. With a Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan, he brings a simple, compassionate approach to oral and maxillofacial health.
Learn MoreWhat to Expect During a Cartilage Disc Repair and Repositioning Procedure
Before the day of the procedure, we’ll make sure you’re well-prepared by giving you a list of preparation necessities. This procedure usually requires general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep, and we’ll talk to you about when you should stop eating or drinking before the procedure. We’ll also likely ask you to stop taking certain medications, especially ones that could increase your risk for bleeding.
Once the anesthesia has started to work, we’ll begin the procedure by making a precise incision in the area. By doing this, we’re able to access the disc and reposition it, pinning it in place. This method also allows us to make necessary repairs.
Cartilage Disc Repair and Repositioning Aftercare
You’ll be able to return home the day of the surgery, but make sure someone is ready to drive you and be with you during the first couple nights of recovery. We’ll likely give you a small tube to drain extra fluid and prevent buildup. We’ll remove this at a later point. You’ll need to refrain from eating solid food for several days, and stick to soft food for around one month. You should try to keep from stretching your mouth for around 6 weeks to make sure that the area heals properly. We’ll give you a highly detailed care plan so you can feel confident in your recovery at home. It takes patience, but the results are worth it.
Schedule a Consultation
We’re proud to offer cartilage disc repair and repositioning as one of our specialties. Using this procedure, we’re dedicated to improving the lives of our patients. If this sounds like something that could benefit you, contact us at our office in Brighton, MI.