Temporomandibular Joint Replacement
Explainer Video
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Overview of Temporomandibular Joint Replacement
Anesthesia
Local
Duration
1-2 Weeks
Work Leave
1-2 Weeks
Complete Recovery
Multiple Days
Success Rate
99%
Number of Stages
3 Stages
Materials Used
Teeth Shells
What Is Temporomandibular Joint Replacement?
Total temporomandibular joint replacement surgery is a novel surgical procedure that aims to address issues concerning the joints connecting the lower jaw to the base of the skull by utilizing specially crafted prosthetic joints.
Unlike other joints in the body, the TMJ operates in conjunction with its counterpart on the opposite side, establishing a distinctive functional synergy. Jaw replacement surgery isn’t universally necessary for all types of jaw complications.
However, certain TMJ conditions and pathological cases require reconstruction through the implementation of a complete joint prosthesis.
Over the past decade, TMJ joint replacement surgery has emerged as a mainstream treatment option. However, its journey to success wasn't without challenges.
In the early stages, there were notable difficulties with the prosthetic joints, resulting in a relatively high failure rate. Nonetheless, advancements in technology and techniques have paved the way for improved outcomes in recent years.
Individuals requiring TMJ replacement often fall into specific categories, such as those who have endured severe facial trauma resulting in jaw fractures or situations where the joint itself has been damaged due to malignancies like cancerous tumors or other diseases such as bone infections and joint diseases.
Why Choose Temporomandibular Joint Replacement in Turkey?
The prospect of choosing Turkey as a destination for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement surgery is certainly worth considering. The reasons behind this include:
Affordable TMJ Replacement
Turkey presents a bouquet of cost-effective options for those who seek cheaper joint replacement procedures. The treasure trove of affordability and excellence of care has ignited the interest of many international patients from all parts of the world. International Clinics in Istanbul, for instance, grants patients a gateway to comprehensive treatment without an exorbitant price tag.
World-Class Dental Centers
It’s not easy to find clinics that use technology that harmonizes with unrivaled expertise as in Turkey. In fact, there are Turkish prestigious clinics that offer a level of quality that rivals dental clinics in other developed countries, including Germany and Canada. Of course, such quality is needed to perform safe and effective TMJ replacement procedures.
Surgical Excellence
Many Turkish surgeons are described as “masters” in the domain of TMJ replacement surgery. Thanks to their rigorous training and practical experience, they orchestrate medical interventions with precise, harmonious outcomes for their patients, reaching a new milestone of surgical excellence.
Joyful Recovery
The ethos of compassionate care thrives inside Turkish clinics. The intricate dance between technical prowess and a heartfelt touch ensures that patients are not merely recipients of surgical expertise, but beneficiaries of a holistic healing experience. Additionally, patients will have the opportunity to enjoy Turkish hospitality and cuisine during their recovery.
Facilitated Process
The process of having TMJ replacement surgery in Turkey is easy and quite straightforward. After the initial consultation, you will be presented with different packages carefully designed to meet all your needs during your stay in the country. The packages cover different aspects of the treatment process and provide more value.
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Benefits of Temporomandibular Joint Replacement
There are manifold benefits associated with the surgery. We can explore them as follows:
- Enhanced jaw functionality: Patients can experience a remarkable improvement in the functioning of their jaws as the custom-made prosthetic joints facilitate smoother movement and enable proper alignment between the lower jaw and the base of the skull.
- Alleviation of pain and discomfort: One of the primary goals of TMJ replacement surgery is to alleviate the persistent pain and discomfort that patients may have been enduring.
- Enhanced quality of life: The transformation brought about by TMJ replacement surgery extends beyond physical improvements. Indeed, patients often experience an enhanced overall quality of life as they can enjoy a wider range of food options and enjoy better appearance.
- Long-term solution: One of the notable advantages of TMJ replacement surgery is that it provides a permanent solution to underlying jaw issues. After all, custom-made prosthetic joints are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
The Procedure of Temporomandibular Joint Replacement
The actual surgical procedure itself typically takes around 1.5 hours per side, considering that both sides of the jaw may require attention. During this time, the orthopedic surgeon replaces the damaged joint with a titanium counterpart, aiming to restore optimal functionality. The steps of the procedure include:
1. Custom manufacturing
Planning and custom manufacturing of the joint components are essential steps. This stage involves a comprehensive process that spans approximately three months. It begins with the patient undergoing a specialized CT scan, which captures precise, fine-slice images of the jaw joint. These scans serve as the foundation for the implant manufacturer to create initial draft designs.
2. Surgical procedure
In TMJ joint replacement surgery, the knuckle of the joint is surgically removed, and a titanium replacement is inserted instead. In some cases, a small portion of the base of the skull may also be excised and substituted with a high-density plastic material. This plastic component is securely affixed to the side of the skull. The titanium knuckle fits into the plastic, restoring the jaw's full range of motion.
3. Post-operative care
Following the surgery, the patient typically remains in the hospital for about a week. This period allows for close monitoring and appropriate post-operative care. Some patients, particularly those with chronic pain, may require extended hospital stays to ensure comprehensive management and healing.
Risks of Temporomandibular Joint Replacement
There are potential complications and risks associated with the procedure:
- TMJ-specific risks, such as facial swelling and facial nerve weakness
- Ear problems, such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or changes in hearing
- Joint dislocation
- Allergic reaction
- Teeth misalignment
- Persistent pain
- Infection
Cost of Temporomandibular Joint Replacement in Turkey
Temporomandibular joint replacement is one of the most expensive procedures. In Turkey, the surgery costs between 4000-6000 US dollars. In other countries, the surgery costs up to a staggering 50000 US dollars, especially in The United States and Germany. Apparently, Turkey occupies the cost ladder by a huge margin compared to other countries.
How Can International Clinics Help You?
International Clinics helps international patients access affordable, high-quality medical and aesthetic procedures in Turkey. Our team of consultants is here to answer your questions and provide guidance throughout your treatment journey.
Our partner hospitals and clinics have successfully performed thousands of procedures for patients from Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East.
Use the contact forms on our website to request a free consultation with our team. We’re ready to help you get the care you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Jaw joint replacement is supposed to last more than 20-30 years. However, there is still a lot of ambiguity regarding this matter due to limited studies.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be replaced by implants or custom-made prosthetic materials.
Many people experienced full recovery after treating their TMJ disorders. Others recover without treating the condition, but this isn’t always the case.
Jaw surgery can fix TMJ disorders, especially if the surgery targets the joints and the surrounding muscles.
TMJ replacement surgery is often a successful procedure with around a 90% success rate according to many sources.
Jaw surgery is worth it for treating TMJ disorders, but it doesn’t always work as intended.
Testimonials
Procedure Results
Hollywood Smile
Name: Shaima
Age: 25
Nationality: UAE
Date: 22-01-2022
Additional procedures: None
Seamless Treatment Journey
In addition to the medical services that we provide at the International Clinics, we also provide a range of supportive services to ensure patient comfort and safety, including:
Reception &
Transportation
We provide airport pickup and drop-off, transport between hotels, hospital, and other sites
Premium
Hospitality
A medical advisor will ensure an appropriate and comfortable treatment plan that meets all your needs
24/7 Support
We provide access to dental consultants who can answer questions, address concerns, and coordinate care
Premium
Hospitality
Accommodation will not be a problem at all, because our team will help you in booking the most suitable place during your stay in Turkey
High Quality
Service
The quality team communicates with patients after procedures to ensure that they received the care they deserve