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ENT DOCTOR BLOG
Posts for: October, 2020
Jaw disorders, such as TMJ, can cause pain and discomfort, as well as other complications. When non-surgical treatment methods are not completely effective in providing relief from the symptoms of TMJ or another jaw disorder, surgery can help. At our office for otolaryngology in Washington, DC our experienced head and neck surgeon and otolaryngologist, Dr. William Bond, Jr., can discuss head and neck surgery options for treating your jaw disorder.
TMJ Disorder
TMJ is a jaw disorder that occurs when the temporomandibular joints on either side of the face become misaligned or irritated in some way. These are the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull. When the joints are aggravated or out of alignment, a person with TMJ disorder can experience extensive pain and discomfort. Some causes of TMJ disorder include chronic stress, a jaw injury, arthritis in the jaw joint, and frequent grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw. Symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- A locked jaw
- Difficulty chewing
- Tooth sensitivity
- The clicking of the jaw joints
In addition to experiencing pain in the jaw or head, TMJ disorder can cause discomfort in other areas as well. For example, stiffness or pain in the neck and shoulders can also accompany TMJ disorder. For some individuals, the disorder can result in a shooting sensation up the back of the head. Additionally, earaches, ringing, or buzzing not due to an ear infection can also occur in conjunction with TMJ disorder. At our otolaryngology practice in Washington, our skilled head and neck surgeon can recommend a specific approach for treating TMJ or another jaw disorder.
Surgery for TMJ Disorder
When non-surgical methods are not fully effective in treating TMJ disorder, surgery can provide long-lasting relief. Surgery can be performed to repair a dislocated jaw or realign the temporomandibular joints when they are out of place. Surgical treatment can restore normal functioning of the temporomandibular joints and eliminate problems with jaw pain, locked jaw, and clicking of the jaw joints.
There are several types of head and neck surgery that can be beneficial for treating TMJ or other jaw disorders. Types of surgery include arthroscopy, open-joint surgery, and arthrocentesis. Surgery for TMJ or another jaw disorder might be recommended if you cannot fully open or close your mouth, you have difficulty eating or drinking due to jaw problems, non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief, you experience extensive pain when opening or closing your mouth, or you have misalignment or other structural problems in the jaw joint.
Head and neck surgery can provide long-lasting relief from the pain and discomfort caused by TMJ and other jaw disorders. To discuss options for treating your jaw problems, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bond, Jr. by calling our otolaryngology practice in Washington, DC, at (202) 726-7770.
If you open your mouth, it’s fairly easy to see your tonsils, as they are the two soft-tissue organs that lie on either side of the back of the throat. These structures are great for being able to stop bacteria from getting into the body, and they even act as the body’s first line of defense against germs. Unfortunately, even tonsils can become inflamed and infected; however, if you are dealing with regular or recurring tonsillitis, severe infections, or bleeding of the tonsil, then your ENT doctor may recommend tonsil removal surgery.How long does a tonsillectomy take?
A tonsillectomy is performed as a simple outpatient procedure, which means that you will be able to go home the very same day. Surgery is done right in our ENT practice under general anesthesia. This means that you will be asleep throughout the entire procedure.
There are a variety of different methods that can be used to remove the tonsils and your doctor will talk to you about which method may be the best option for you. The surgery is quick, only taking approximately 20-30 minutes to remove the tonsils.
What is the recovery process like?
You may experience a sore throat for a few days after surgery so you will want to consume softer foods and more fluids to stay hydrated and to make sure that you are getting proper nutrients while your mouth heals. Resting is also very important, and you should avoid any physical activities for about two weeks.
You may need pain relievers to ease your symptoms during recovery. Your otolaryngologist will also let you know when you can return to work or when your child can return to school after surgery.
Could I benefit from tonsil removal surgery?
If you are having issues with your tonsils, you may benefit from removal surgery. Talk with your ENT doctor to find out whether a tonsillectomy is a right choice for you or your little one.
