# Auckland TMJ Centre — Full content export > A dedicated TMJ specialist practice co-located with Auckland's OMS Specialists clinic. Multidisciplinary management of TMJ care. Surgeons, physiotherapists, rheumatologists, oral medicine, neurologists and chronic pain teams contribute as required for each TMJ presentation. Last updated: 2026-06-23 Content authored and maintained by the specialist surgeon team at Auckland TMJ Centre. Contact: +64 9 477 0058 · info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz · https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz This file is the full-text companion to /llms.txt — it carries the substance of each procedure page (definition, key facts, indications, risks, and FAQ answers) for AI answer engines. Source: surgeon-authored content rendered live on the site. --- # TMJ Treatments ## Arthrocentesis – Joint Washout https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-treatments/arthrocentesis-joint-washout/ Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure that involves flushing the jaw joint with sterile saline, followed by the injection of hyaluronic acid. This helps to remove debris and reduce inflammation, providing pain relief and improving jaw movement. - Procedure: Minimally invasive joint washout - Stay: Day-stay - Recovery: 24–48 hours to light activity - Follow-up: Physiotherapy ### Arthrocentesis is often considered when: - TMJ arthroscopy is generally preferred, and arthrocentesis is the appropriate alternative - You are not a suitable candidate for surgery under anaesthesia - Financial constraints or access to health insurance is a consideration - You are seeking pain relief and improved jaw movement through a minimally invasive procedure ### What to expect after the procedure - Mild swelling or jaw stiffness: Mild swelling or jaw stiffness may occur but typically resolves quickly. ### Common questions about arthrocentesis Q: When is arthrocentesis chosen over arthroscopy? A: TMJ arthroscopy is generally preferred for its diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic benefits. Arthrocentesis remains a useful alternative for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery under anaesthesia, those with financial constraints, or individuals without access to health insurance. Q: When will I notice an improvement? A: Most patients return home the same day and can resume light activities within 24 to 48 hours. Many patients notice an improvement in jaw movement within a few days. Q: Why is physiotherapy important afterwards? A: Physiotherapy following arthrocentesis is essential to support functional joint remodelling, reduce stiffness, and restore normal jaw movement. ## Arthroscopy – Keyhole Surgery https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-treatments/arthroscopy-keyhole-surgery/ TMJ arthroscopy is internationally recognised as the gold standard for minimally invasive surgical management of many TMJ disorders. It combines diagnostic precision with targeted treatment via small incisions, enabling faster recovery, fewer complications, and preservation of joint structures. - Procedure: Keyhole TMJ surgery - Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia - Stay: Day-stay - Recovery: 1–2 weeks to normal activity - Follow-up: Physiotherapy ### TMJ arthroscopy is often considered when: - Diagnostic precision is needed to assess inflammation, disc condition, and structural changes - Targeted treatment is required: removing debris, releasing adhesions, repositioning the disc, or smoothing the joint surface - A minimally invasive approach is preferred over open joint surgery - Faster recovery and preservation of joint structures are priorities ### What to expect after the procedure Swelling, stiffness, and mild discomfort are common after the procedure but manageable. - Swelling and stiffness: Swelling, stiffness, and mild discomfort are common but manageable. ### Common questions about TMJ arthroscopy Q: Why is TMJ arthroscopy considered the gold standard? A: TMJ arthroscopy is internationally recognised as the gold standard for minimally invasive surgical management of many TMJ disorders. It combines diagnostic precision with targeted treatment via small incisions, enabling faster recovery, fewer complications, and preservation of joint structures. Q: How are your surgeons trained for this procedure? A: All of our surgeons have completed TMJ arthroscopy training through advanced programmes in the United States. It is an option not widely available through most surgeons in New Zealand. Q: How long is recovery? A: Patients usually go home the same day. Swelling, stiffness, and mild discomfort are common but manageable. Most people return to normal activities within one to two weeks. Benefits often include improved jaw movement and reduced pain. ## Joint Replacement – Custom Prostheses https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-treatments/joint-replacement-custom-prostheses/ Joint replacement with a custom-made prosthesis is used in cases of severe joint damage or following unsuccessful previous surgeries. The procedure restores jaw movement, alignment, and comfort in complex or degenerative conditions, with the primary objectives of restoring long-term function, alleviating pain, and significantly improving quality of life. - Procedure: Total TMJ replacement with custom prosthesis - When: Severe damage or after failed prior surgery - Stay: Short hospital stay - Recovery: 3–4 weeks (guided rehabilitation) ### Joint replacement is typically considered when: - There is severe joint damage - Previous surgeries have been unsuccessful - Complex or degenerative conditions require full joint reconstruction - Restoring long-term jaw function, alleviating pain, and improving quality of life are the primary goals ### What to expect after the procedure - Guided rehabilitation: Jaw function generally improves gradually through guided rehabilitation. ### Common questions about TMJ joint replacement Q: When is a custom prosthesis joint replacement considered? A: In cases of severe joint damage or following unsuccessful previous surgeries, the entire jaw joint may be replaced with a custom-made prosthesis. This advanced procedure is designed to restore jaw movement, alignment, and comfort in complex or degenerative conditions. Q: What is the recovery like? A: Patients can expect a short hospital stay, followed by a recovery period of three to four weeks. Jaw function generally improves gradually through guided rehabilitation. Q: What outcomes can I expect long-term? A: The primary objectives are to restore long-term function, alleviate pain, and significantly improve quality of life. ## Open Joint Surgery – Disc Repositioning / Discectomy https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-treatments/open-joint-surgery/ Open joint surgery provides direct access to the TMJ through an incision near the ear, used to reposition or remove a damaged joint disc when other treatments have been unsuccessful. This procedure is often recommended for severe or long-standing joint disorders, with careful patient selection enabling excellent long-term outcomes. - Procedure: Direct access to TMJ via preauricular incision - When: When other treatments have been unsuccessful - Recovery: Several weeks - Diet: Soft diet during early healing - Follow-up: Physical therapy ### Open joint surgery is typically considered when: - There has been limited improvement following arthroscopy - A damaged joint disc needs to be repositioned or removed - You present with severe or long-standing TMJ disorders - End-stage TMJ disorders require more extensive intervention ### What to expect after the procedure - Swelling and bruising: Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and limited jaw movement during the early stages. ### Common questions about open joint surgery Q: When is open joint surgery recommended? A: Open joint surgery is typically reserved for patients who have had limited improvement following arthroscopy or those presenting with severe, end-stage TMJ disorders requiring more extensive intervention. The procedure is often recommended for severe or long-standing joint disorders. Q: How long is recovery? A: Recovery usually takes several weeks. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and limited jaw movement during the early stages. Physical therapy and a soft diet are commonly advised to support healing. Q: What can I expect as a long-term outcome? A: With careful patient selection, long-term outcomes can be excellent. ## Revision For Previous TMJ Treatments https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-treatments/revision-for-previous-tmj-treatments/ Revision (corrective) surgery is offered when prior TMJ treatments have not achieved the desired outcomes, including ongoing pain, restricted jaw movement, or mechanical issues within the joint. Treatment plans are matched to each patient's specific case. - Procedure: Revision / corrective TMJ surgery - Indication: Failed previous TMJ treatment - Approach: Tailored to each patient's case ### Symptoms that may indicate revision is needed: - Persistent jaw pain following surgery - Difficulty opening or closing the mouth - Clicking, locking, or joint instability - Scarring or joint damage visible on imaging - Frustration or a reduced quality of life ### What to expect from revision care This condition can be complex, but there are often ways to improve both function and comfort. - Treatment plans matched to your case: Revision (corrective) surgery may be necessary in some cases. Treatment plans are carefully tailored to address each patient's specific challenges. ### Common questions about revision TMJ surgery Q: What does revision TMJ surgery address? A: Occasionally, prior treatments or surgeries for TMJ disorders may not achieve the desired outcomes. This can result in ongoing pain, restricted jaw movement, or mechanical issues within the joint. Revision (corrective) surgery may be necessary in some cases. Q: What are the typical symptoms that lead to revision? A: Persistent jaw pain following surgery; difficulty opening or closing the mouth; clicking, locking, or joint instability; scarring or joint damage visible on imaging; and frustration or a reduced quality of life. Q: What outcomes are realistic for revision cases? A: This condition can be complex, but there are often ways to improve both function and comfort. Treatment plans are carefully tailored to address each patient's specific challenges. ## Specialist Referral https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-treatments/specialist-referral/ Specialist referral pathways at Auckland TMJ Centre include physiotherapy and rheumatology. Specialised jaw exercises help retrain the muscles, restore natural jaw movement, and encourage proper disc alignment. Where appropriate we may recommend blood tests or refer you to a rheumatologist for a thorough diagnosis and management plan. - Pathways: Physiotherapy · Rheumatology - Physiotherapy role: Recovery after TMJ surgery - Rheumatology role: Autoimmune / inflammatory assessment ### Specialist referral may be appropriate when: - You are recovering from TMJ surgery and need specialised jaw exercises to retrain the muscles - Restoring natural jaw movement and proper disc alignment is part of your rehabilitation - An underlying autoimmune or inflammatory condition may be contributing to your TMJ disorder - Blood tests or rheumatologist input is needed for a thorough diagnosis and management plan ### How specialist referral fits with your care - Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy plays a vital role in your recovery following TMJ surgery. Specialised jaw exercises help retrain the muscles, restore natural jaw movement, and encourage proper disc alignment. - Rheumatology: At Auckland TMJ Centre we carefully consider underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions as possible contributors to TMJ disorders. Where appropriate we may recommend blood tests or refer you to a rheumatologist for a thorough diagnosis and management plan. ### Common questions about specialist referral Q: Why is physiotherapy referred alongside TMJ surgery? A: Physiotherapy plays a vital role in your recovery following TMJ surgery. Specialised jaw exercises help retrain the muscles, restore natural jaw movement, and encourage proper disc alignment. Q: Why might rheumatology referral be recommended? A: At Auckland TMJ Centre we carefully consider underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions as possible contributors to TMJ disorders. Where appropriate we may recommend blood tests or refer you to a rheumatologist for a thorough diagnosis and management plan. --- # TMJ Conditions ## Arthralgia / Myalgia involving the TMJ https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/arthralgia-myalgia/ Surgeon-supplied clinical definition, presentation, and management pathway pending V3 review. - Status: SURGEON COPY PENDING ### Assessment may be appropriate when: - Detailed clinical criteria pending surgeon review ### Assessment and management Surgeon-supplied detail pending V3 review. - Surgeon copy pending: Clinical detail for this condition will be added on V3 surgeon review. ### Common questions Q: When will this page have detailed clinical content? A: Detailed surgeon-authored content for this condition is pending V3 review. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for specific clinical questions. ## Inflammatory Joint Disease affecting the TMJ https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/inflammatory-joint-disease/ Surgeon-supplied clinical definition, presentation, and management pathway pending V3 review. - Status: SURGEON COPY PENDING ### Assessment may be appropriate when: - Detailed clinical criteria pending surgeon review ### Assessment and management Surgeon-supplied detail pending V3 review. - Surgeon copy pending: Clinical detail for this condition will be added on V3 surgeon review. ### Common questions Q: When will this page have detailed clinical content? A: Detailed surgeon-authored content for this condition is pending V3 review. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for specific clinical questions. ## Symptomatic TMJ Disc Displacement https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/tmj-disc-displacement/ TMJ disc displacement is when the small cushioning disc inside the jaw joint slips out of its normal position. Common symptoms include clicking or popping with jaw movement, jaw locking, and jaw pain. Treatment usually begins with jaw exercises, bite splints, or medication. Surgical options follow if pain or locking becomes severe or persistent. - Anatomy: Disc between mandibular condyle and skull base - First-line care: Jaw exercises · bite splints · medications - When surgical: Severe or persistent pain or locking ### Common symptoms of disc displacement: - Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth - Jaw locking (either in an open or closed position) - Jaw pain or tenderness - Difficulty chewing or yawning - Occasional headaches or earaches ### Prognosis and treatment pathway - Conservative first: Treatment options may include jaw exercises, bite splints, or medications. - When surgical intervention is needed: If pain or locking becomes severe or persistent, surgical intervention may be recommended. ### Common questions about disc displacement Q: What is TMJ disc displacement? A: Within the jaw joint, there is a small disc that acts as a cushion between the bones. Sometimes this disc slips out of its normal position, a condition known as disc displacement. Q: What are the symptoms? A: Symptoms include clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, jaw locking (either in an open or closed position), jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty chewing or yawning, and occasional headaches or earaches. Q: How is it treated? A: Treatment options may include jaw exercises, bite splints, or medications. If pain or locking becomes severe or persistent, surgical intervention may be recommended. ## TMJ Ankylosis https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/tmj-ankylosis/ Surgeon-supplied clinical definition, presentation, and management pathway pending V3 review. - Status: SURGEON COPY PENDING ### Assessment may be appropriate when: - Detailed clinical criteria pending surgeon review ### Assessment and management Surgeon-supplied detail pending V3 review. - Surgeon copy pending: Clinical detail for this condition will be added on V3 surgeon review. ### Common questions Q: When will this page have detailed clinical content? A: Detailed surgeon-authored content for this condition is pending V3 review. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for specific clinical questions. ## TMJ Arthritis / Degenerative Joint Disease https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/tmj-arthritis-degeneration/ TMJ arthritis is the gradual wear or inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, similar to arthritis in the knees or hips. Symptoms include jaw pain, stiffness, joint noises, and difficulty opening the mouth fully. Early conservative care is usually effective; surgery is reserved for advanced cases where jaw function needs to be restored. - Onset: Typically gradual - First-line care: Physiotherapy · medication · bite splints - When surgical: Advanced cases requiring functional restoration ### Common symptoms of TMJ arthritis: - Jaw pain, particularly when chewing or speaking - Stiffness or restricted jaw movement - Clicking, popping, or grinding noises - Facial pain or headaches - Difficulty opening the mouth fully ### Prognosis and treatment pathway This condition typically progresses gradually. Care is matched to the stage of disease and the impact on jaw function. - Early stage: Early treatment options, such as physiotherapy, medication, or bite splints, can help manage symptoms effectively. - Advanced stage: In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to restore jaw function. ### Common questions about TMJ arthritis Q: What causes TMJ arthritis? A: Arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) occurs when the joint wears down or becomes inflamed. Similar to joints in the knees or hips, the TMJ can develop "wear and tear" over time. Q: What are the symptoms? A: Common symptoms include jaw pain (particularly when chewing or speaking), stiffness or restricted jaw movement, clicking, popping, or grinding noises, facial pain or headaches, and difficulty opening the mouth fully. Q: What is the prognosis? A: This condition typically progresses gradually. Early treatment options, such as physiotherapy, medication, or bite splints, can help manage symptoms effectively. In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to restore jaw function. ## TMJ Disease Summary https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/tmj-disease-summary/ TMJ disease covers disorders of the temporomandibular joint, including arthritis and degeneration, disc displacement, and TMJ pathology. At Auckland TMJ Centre we use the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to measure pain intensity, and the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-8) to evaluate your ability to eat, speak, and move your jaw. These scores assist us in accurately diagnosing your condition, tracking progress, and tailoring your treatment plan. - Pain assessment: Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) - Function assessment: Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-8) - Spectrum: Arthritis · disc displacement · pathology - Approach: Minimally invasive techniques where possible ### TMJ disease may present as: - Pain in the jaw joint - Jaw clicking or locking - Reduced mouth opening - Dietary changes due to symptoms ### How we approach TMJ disease During your initial assessment and follow-up appointments, we use standardised tools to monitor your pain and jaw function. - Standardised assessment: The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) measures pain intensity, while the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-8) evaluates your ability to eat, speak, and move your jaw. These scores assist us in accurately diagnosing your condition, tracking progress, and tailoring your treatment plan accordingly. - Minimally invasive techniques: At Auckland TMJ Centre we diagnose and treat all forms of TMJ disease, using minimally invasive techniques where possible. ### Common questions about TMJ disease Q: What is TMJ disease? A: TMJ disease refers to disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint, the small joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint becomes inflamed, damaged, or misaligned, it can lead to pain, jaw clicking or locking, headaches, and difficulties with eating or speaking. Q: How is TMJ disease diagnosed? A: During your initial assessment and follow-up appointments, we use standardised tools to monitor your pain and jaw function. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) measures pain intensity, while the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-8) evaluates your ability to eat, speak, and move your jaw. These scores assist us in accurately diagnosing your condition, tracking progress, and tailoring your treatment plan accordingly. Q: How is TMJ disease treated at Auckland TMJ Centre? A: At Auckland TMJ Centre we diagnose and treat all forms of TMJ disease, using minimally invasive techniques where possible. ## TMJ Pathology https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/tmj-pathology/ TMJ pathology covers benign growths, cysts, and (rarely) malignant tumours of the temporomandibular joint. These can arise from bone, cartilage, or surrounding soft tissues and may present as swelling or facial asymmetry, persistent jaw pain, limited jaw movement, or numbness in the face or jaw. At Auckland TMJ Centre our surgeons work with radiologists and pathologists to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate treatment. - Prevalence: Uncommon - Origin tissues: Bone · cartilage · soft tissue - Spectrum: Benign growths · cysts · malignant tumours - Multidisciplinary: Surgeons + radiologists + pathologists ### Common symptoms of TMJ pathology: - Localised swelling or facial asymmetry - Persistent or worsening jaw pain - Limited or uneven jaw movement - Numbness or tingling in the face or jaw ### Diagnosis and management Early detection and accurate diagnosis are essential. - Benign conditions: Most benign conditions can be managed with conservative surgery and regular monitoring. - Malignant tumours: Malignant tumours, though rare, require a coordinated multidisciplinary approach. - Multidisciplinary care: At Auckland TMJ Centre, our surgeons collaborate closely with radiologists and pathologists to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate treatment for every case. ### Common questions about TMJ pathology Q: How common is TMJ pathology? A: Although uncommon, the temporomandibular joint can be affected by various pathological conditions, including benign growths, cysts, and malignant tumours. These may develop from bone, cartilage, or surrounding soft tissues and can significantly affect jaw function, structure, and comfort. Q: What are the warning symptoms? A: Symptoms may include localised swelling or facial asymmetry, persistent or worsening jaw pain, limited or uneven jaw movement, and numbness or tingling in the face or jaw. Q: How is TMJ pathology diagnosed and treated? A: Early detection and accurate diagnosis are essential. Most benign conditions can be managed with conservative surgery and regular monitoring. Malignant tumours, though rare, require a coordinated multidisciplinary approach. At Auckland TMJ Centre, our surgeons collaborate closely with radiologists and pathologists to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate treatment for every case. ## TMJ Recurrent Dislocation https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/tmj-recurrent-dislocation/ Surgeon-supplied clinical definition, presentation, and management pathway pending V3 review. - Status: SURGEON COPY PENDING ### Assessment may be appropriate when: - Detailed clinical criteria pending surgeon review ### Assessment and management Surgeon-supplied detail pending V3 review. - Surgeon copy pending: Clinical detail for this condition will be added on V3 surgeon review. ### Common questions Q: When will this page have detailed clinical content? A: Detailed surgeon-authored content for this condition is pending V3 review. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for specific clinical questions. ## Traumatic Injuries involving the TMJ https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/tmj-conditions/traumatic-injuries/ Surgeon-supplied clinical definition, presentation, and management pathway pending V3 review. - Status: SURGEON COPY PENDING ### Assessment may be appropriate when: - Detailed clinical criteria pending surgeon review ### Assessment and management Surgeon-supplied detail pending V3 review. - Surgeon copy pending: Clinical detail for this condition will be added on V3 surgeon review. ### Common questions Q: When will this page have detailed clinical content? A: Detailed surgeon-authored content for this condition is pending V3 review. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for specific clinical questions. --- # Allied Health ## Our TMJ Physiotherapists https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/allied-health/physiotherapists/ Auckland TMJ Centre works with four named TMJ-focused physiotherapists: Nikki Tse (Director, About Faces Physiotherapy), Sasa Sajjavanich (About Faces), Sarah Talyancich (Director, Bodyreform), and Emma Whelen (Bodyreform). Nikki Tse is currently the only physiotherapist in New Zealand who is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Orofacial Pain (ANZAOP). - Practitioners: 4 named TMJ-focused physiotherapists - Clinics: About Faces Physiotherapy · Bodyreform - Specialty: Orofacial pain · jaw rehabilitation - ANZAOP membership: Nikki Tse (only NZ physiotherapist) ### Choose a TMJ physiotherapist for: - Orofacial pain assessment and treatment - Jaw rehabilitation before or after TMJ surgery - Cervical spine rehabilitation alongside TMJ care - Dry needling, acupuncture, or Pilates-based rehabilitation - Specialised expertise across head, neck, and shoulders ### How we work with these practitioners Auckland TMJ Centre refers all patients requiring TMJ-focused physiotherapy to one of these four named practitioners, chosen for their specialist expertise in jaw rehabilitation. - Specialist expertise: We work closely with TMJ-focused physiotherapists who have particular expertise in jaw rehabilitation. - Part of multidisciplinary care: TMJ-focused physiotherapy contributes alongside surgeons, rheumatologists, oral medicine, neurologists, and chronic pain teams as required for each patient's specific presentation. ### Common questions about our physiotherapists Q: Why does Nikki Tse's ANZAOP membership matter? A: Nikki is currently the only physiotherapist in New Zealand who is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Orofacial Pain (ANZAOP). She also serves on the Executive Committee of the Physiotherapy Acupuncture Association of New Zealand (PAANZ) and teaches needling techniques around the head and neck as part of the AUT Postgraduate Western Acupuncture programme. Q: How do I book an appointment with one of these physiotherapists? A: Request a physiotherapy appointment via the form on our Request Physiotherapy Appointment page. Our team will route your enquiry to the appropriate practitioner based on clinical fit. For direct contact, About Faces (Nikki Tse, Sasa Sajjavanich) and Bodyreform (Sarah Talyancich, Emma Whelen) both have their own clinic websites. ## Physiotherapy https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/allied-health/physiotherapy/ TMJ physiotherapy is specialist jaw rehabilitation delivered by TMJ-focused physiotherapists working alongside surgeons, rheumatologists, oral medicine, neurologists, and chronic pain teams as required. Specialised jaw exercises help retrain the muscles, restore natural jaw movement, and encourage proper disc alignment, a process known as functional remodelling. - Specialty: TMJ-focused physiotherapy - Role: One discipline within multidisciplinary care - Starts: Just days after surgery, where applicable - Continues: Throughout the healing process - Named practitioners: Nikki Tse · Sasa Sajjavanich · Sarah Talyancich · Emma Whelen ### TMJ physiotherapy may be appropriate when: - You are recovering from TMJ surgery and need specialised jaw exercises to retrain the muscles - Restoring natural jaw movement and proper disc alignment is part of your rehabilitation - Your TMJ presentation may respond to targeted physiotherapy alongside other specialist input - Your surgical team has identified physiotherapy as the right discipline for your presentation ### What physiotherapy involves We work closely with TMJ-focused physiotherapists who have particular expertise in jaw rehabilitation. Physiotherapy is engaged as part of multidisciplinary TMJ care, alongside surgeons, rheumatologists, oral medicine, neurologists, and chronic pain teams as required. - Functional remodelling: Specialised jaw exercises help retrain the muscles, restore natural jaw movement, and encourage proper disc alignment. This process, known as functional remodelling, significantly reduces the risk of symptoms recurring. - Starts just days after surgery: We refer our patients to physiotherapists throughout the healing process, starting in the days after surgery where applicable. - Part of multidisciplinary care: Physiotherapy contributes alongside other specialist disciplines. The combination is chosen for each patient's specific TMJ presentation. ### Common questions about TMJ physiotherapy Q: How does physiotherapy fit with TMJ surgery? A: Physiotherapy plays a key role in your recovery following TMJ surgery. Specialised jaw exercises help retrain the muscles, restore natural jaw movement, and encourage proper disc alignment. This process, known as functional remodelling, significantly reduces the risk of symptoms recurring. Q: When does physiotherapy start after TMJ surgery? A: We refer our patients to TMJ-focused physiotherapists throughout the healing process, starting in the days after surgery where applicable. Q: Where does physiotherapy sit within multidisciplinary care? A: At Auckland TMJ Centre, care is multidisciplinary. Surgeons, physiotherapists, rheumatologists, oral medicine, neurologists, and chronic pain teams contribute as required, ensuring each patient receives the right combination of specialist expertise. Physiotherapy is one of these disciplines. ## Radiologists https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/allied-health/radiologists/ Auckland TMJ Centre's surgeons work closely with radiologists and pathologists to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate treatment for every case, particularly where pathological conditions of the TMJ are suspected. Named imaging-partner clinics are pending surgeon confirmation. - Status: Practitioner roster pending. [needs surgeon roster] - Contact: info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz · (09) 477 0058 ### Radiology supports TMJ care when: - Imaging (CBCT, MRI) is required for diagnosis - Suspected TMJ pathology requires multidisciplinary investigation - Your surgeon needs detailed imaging to plan surgical care ### Roster coming soon The named radiology partner roster is pending surgeon confirmation. In the meantime, please contact the clinic for current imaging referral pathways. - Multidisciplinary investigation: At Auckland TMJ Centre our surgeons work closely with radiologists and pathologists to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate treatment for every case. - Contact the clinic: Phone (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz to ask about current radiology partners. ### Questions about radiology partners Q: Who are your radiology referral partners? A: Our radiology partner roster is pending surgeon confirmation. Our surgeons work closely with radiologists and pathologists to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate treatment for every case. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for current imaging referral pathways. ## Rheumatologists https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/allied-health/rheumatologists/ Auckland TMJ Centre's rheumatology partners support multidisciplinary assessment when autoimmune or inflammatory contributors to TMJ disorder are suspected. Named practitioner partners are pending surgeon confirmation. To request a rheumatology referral, contact the clinic. - Status: Practitioner roster pending. [needs surgeon roster] - Contact: info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz · (09) 477 0058 ### Contact us about rheumatology referral when: - Your TMJ surgeon has recommended specialist rheumatology input - You are awaiting confirmation of a referral pathway - You have questions about which rheumatologists we partner with ### Roster coming soon The named rheumatologist roster is pending surgeon confirmation. In the meantime, please contact the clinic to discuss referral pathways directly. - Contact the clinic: Phone (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz to ask about current rheumatology referral partners. ### Questions about rheumatology referral Q: Who are your rheumatology referral partners? A: Our rheumatology referral partner roster is pending surgeon confirmation. Please contact the clinic on (09) 477 0058 or email info@aucklandtmjcentre.nz for current referral pathways. ## Rheumatology https://aucklandtmjcentre.nz/allied-health/rheumatology/ Rheumatology referral at Auckland TMJ Centre is engaged when underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions are suspected as possible contributors to a TMJ disorder. Where appropriate we may recommend blood tests or refer you to a rheumatologist for a thorough diagnosis and management plan. - When: Suspected autoimmune / inflammatory contributor to TMJ - Tools: Blood tests · rheumatology referral - Aim: Thorough diagnosis and management plan ### Rheumatology assessment may be appropriate when: - An underlying autoimmune or inflammatory condition is suspected - Your TMJ symptoms do not respond to conservative or surgical care alone - Blood tests or rheumatologist input is needed for a thorough diagnosis - A management plan requires multidisciplinary input ### How rheumatology fits with your care Rheumatology is engaged as part of multidisciplinary TMJ care when autoimmune or inflammatory contributors are suspected. - Blood tests: Where appropriate, we may recommend blood tests to investigate underlying autoimmune or inflammatory contributors. - Rheumatologist referral: We may refer you to a rheumatologist for a thorough diagnosis and management plan. ### Common questions about rheumatology and TMJ Q: Why might rheumatology be involved in TMJ care? A: At Auckland TMJ Centre we carefully consider underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions as possible contributors to TMJ disorders. Where appropriate we may recommend blood tests or refer you to a rheumatologist for a thorough diagnosis and management plan. Q: What rheumatologic conditions can affect the TMJ? A: We carefully consider underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions as possible contributors to TMJ disorders. Specific named conditions and their assessment pathways will be added on surgeon review.