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Total Jaw Joint Replacement

STATE OF THE ART FACILITY

Problems with the jaw are not at all uncommon, and they affect a large number of people around the world. However, we know that this knowledge doesn’t make the issue any easier to deal with. Issues or dysfunction of the TMJ, of the joints between the jaw and the skull, can be debilitating for those experiencing this. It can make simple tasks like eating and talking incredibly painful. At TruForm Surgery, we’re proud to offer a range of procedures to address this, including the impressive and modern total jaw joint replacement surgery. If you’d like to learn more and determine if this is a good fit for you, keep reading.

What Is Total Jaw Joint Replacement?

Other procedures are focused on repairing or moving discs in the jaw to provide relief to patients. Total jaw joint replacement, however, takes this a step further by allowing us to replace the knuckles of your TMJ joints entirely in favor of a new prosthetic joint that is custom-made to work with the structure of your face and skull. This might be a good option for people who have suffered significant injury to the area, or who have had to have bone removed from the jaw during past procedures.

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.

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Who Is a Candidate for Total Jaw Joint Replacement?

Unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for total jaw joint replacement. This is an intense procedure, and it’s most beneficial for people who are experiencing significant issues of the jaw that cannot be treated using other methods. Ideal patients are healthy and either don’t smoke or are willing to stop smoking so their bodies can heal properly during the recovery period. Ideal patients are aware that this procedure will require a significant recovery period. Candidates should also be ready to be open with our team about medical history and expectations so we can make sure that this is the best next step for you and your journey toward a better life.

What to Expect During a Total Jaw Joint Replacement Procedure

Before the procedure starts, we’ll have given you detailed instructions on how to prepare. Don’t worry–we’ll make sure you’re ready and feeling comfortable before we get started. It takes some time for custom joint replacements to be made–sometimes several months–so we’ll proceed with the procedure when they’re ready for you. We’ll ask you to stop using certain medications to prevent problems like excessive bleeding. You should also make sure that someone you trust is ready to drive you home and take care of you when you’re released.

After you’ve been given anesthetic, we’ll begin the surgery, which usually takes less than 2 hours to complete. We’ll remove the knuckle of your TMJ joint and install the replacement.

Total Jaw Joint Replacement Aftercare

You may need to remain for several days to make sure that you’re being properly cared for and recovering smoothly. When you return home, plan to take it easy for a few weeks by avoiding exercise or other heavy movement. Make sure that you keep your head elevated, even during periods when you’re resting or sleeping. Some pain and swelling is normal, and we may give you an antibiotic and/or pain medication to make sure any issues can resolve themselves. We’ll give you a detailed plan for how to care for yourself at home between check-up appointments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the risks of jaw joint replacement?

This procedure involves surgical side effects, including facial swelling, redness, and bruising. In very few cases, some patients may experience facial nerve weakness, abnormal nerve tissue growth, or ear problems.

How long does jaw joint replacement last?

This surgery typically lasts two decades or longer. The longevity of your new jaw joint will vary from one patient to another.

How long does the surgery take?

Surgery usually takes 1.5 hours for each side of the jaw. Patients are typically taken care of inpatient for one week.

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Total jaw joint replacement is an exciting, relatively new option for patients who are experiencing continued and intense issues with the TMJ. Our team at TrueForm is highly trained, and we specialize in helping people improve their lives through procedures like this. To learn more about this procedure, contact us today at our office in Brighton, MI.

What Our Patients Say

“IT WAS OVERALL A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE.”

From the first encounter with the secretary at the desk, to the surgical assistant, who got me to relax, everyone was wonderful. The Dr spent time talking to me and explaining what he had to do. Practically pain free experience! Very nice and calming people. Just what I needed for my extraction. I hope other dentists see this and send their patients to TruForm. Kindness is so important and this practice adds knowledge to make an extraction of a molar an easy experience.

-Ellen G

My son had his 4 impacted wisdom teeth removed by Dr. Adam Eidson and his caring team. He was anxious about the surgery, but they made him feel very safe and comfortable. Today he has minimal soreness and minor swelling. The entire process was a very positive experience for him. I would highly recommend Truform Surgery to any of my friends or family.

-David A

My son had all 4 wisdom teeth taken out and was nervous. They made him feel very comfortable and that helped him immensely! They also called to follow up to see how he was doing. I would highly recommend going to TruForm Surgery for wisdom teeth!

-Krystal S

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