Surgical remedies for TMJ disorders vary widely in terms of complexity and invasiveness, and they also vary widely in cost. Naturally, more complicated treatments can be expected to cost more, and it’s important to remember that surgical treatments are rarely considered a first line of treatment for TMJ disorders. In fact, surgical treatments won’t do much to affect inflamed muscle or irritated nerves that surround and support the temporomandibular joint and should be reserved for structural issues with the bone and cartilage in the joint itself. Depending on the cause of the pain, complexity of treatment, and expertise and location of the doctor, TMJ surgeries can range in cost from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.

Non-surgical treatments for TMJ disorder range from free stress-management methods to custom night guards that cost a few hundred dollars. Arthrocentesis, which uses hypodermic needles to flush out the jaw joint and manipulate minor disc displacements or fused tissues, can cost as little as $1,000, and treatments may need to be repeated. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, takes longer than arthrocentesis and relies on a general anesthetic, bringing the cost of the procedure into the $3,000-8,000 range. Open jaw surgeries like arthrotomy and full jaw replacement range in price from $10,000 to $25,000 or more for each side, depending on the complexity of the procedure. In addition to each case’s complexity, the cost represents the duration of each procedure, the number of people needed on the medical team, the type and amount of anesthesia used, the cost of any prosthetic materials, and the duration of the hospital stay. As you can see, with so many factors to consider, it’s difficult to pinpoint a specific price range for TMJ surgery, but you should definitely talk to your dentist if you’re curious about your own possibilities for relieving TMJ disorder and nothing else is working for you.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery offices work closely with patients to work out the finances related to any procedure. Some offer in-house financing plans, while others can provide information about third-party platforms like Care Credit. Patients with dental insurance or medical insurance may find that surgical treatments are covered, at least in part, by their insurance policy, and excess costs may also be eligible for other financing options. While TMJ surgery can be expensive, it’s unlikely that a reputable oral surgeon would recommend more extensive TMJ surgeries unless they were absolutely necessary to restore the comfort and quality of life of the patient. The chronic headaches and earaches, lockjaw, jaw pain, and myriad discomforts of TMJ disorders can be eliminated with surgery when all else fails. While it may seem overwhelming to think about potential costs, gathering information can help alleviate your anxiety. Ask about the factors that influence cost and weigh the options presented to you, taking into consideration your own desires and needs as a patient, and ask about payment plans or other financial arrangements that might meet these needs. You may find a manageable way to address your own chronic TMJ disorder and look toward a more comfortable, pain-free future.

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