Specialist care for jaw joint pain, clicking, and movement problems
TMJ Management and Surgery Sydney
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays an essential role in talking, chewing, and daily function. Problems with this joint often called temporomandibular disorders (TMD) can cause pain, stiffness, or restricted movement. For many patients, non-surgical options provide relief, while others may require surgery.
With more than 15 years of specialist practice, Dr Kristian van Mourik provides comprehensive TMJ management at clinics in Bondi Junction and Lindfield.
Our practice provides a wide scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery in Sydney, built on more than 15 years of specialist experience. With two established clinics and a patient-first approach, we focus on careful planning, clear communication, and safe surgical care. Learn more about our team and history in the link below
What Does TMJ Treatment Involve?
TMJ management starts with a thorough assessment using clinical examination and advanced imaging such as CT or MRI scans. These provide detailed insight into the joint, muscles, and surrounding structures, allowing treatment to be tailored to each patient.
Conservative management options include:
Lifestyle advice – avoiding hard foods, reducing stress, improving posture, and adopting techniques to reduce clenching.
Occlusal splints (bite splints) – custom devices worn at night to minimise the effects of teeth grinding or clenching.
Physiotherapy – exercises, massage, and manual therapy to improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
Medications – short-term use of anti-inflammatory or muscle-relaxant medications where clinically appropriate.
Surgical options may be considered if symptoms persist:
Arthrocentesis – a minimally invasive procedure flushing fluid through the joint to remove debris and reduce inflammation.
Arthroscopy – using a small camera and instruments to examine and treat joint problems with minimal trauma.
Open joint surgery – in rare or severe cases, the joint is accessed directly to repair or reposition structures.
How long does treatment take?
Minimally invasive treatments such as arthrocentesis are usually performed as day procedures, with recovery in just a few days. More complex surgeries, such as open joint surgery, require longer healing times and follow-up care.
Will I be awake during treatment?
Comfort is prioritised for every patient. Depending on the type of procedure, local anaesthetic, intravenous sedation, or general anaesthesia may be used.
Benefits of Specialist Oral Surgery
TMJ disorders often involve a combination of joint, muscle, and bite-related issues. Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons are uniquely trained in both medicine and dentistry, as well as specialist surgery, making them the best equipped to manage these complex conditions.
Benefits of specialist care include:
Precise diagnosis using advanced imaging and medical expertise.
Access to the full spectrum of treatments, from conservative care through to surgery.
Safer management of medical conditions and medications during treatment.
Reduced risk of complications compared to general dental approaches.
Comprehensive follow-up care to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed.
Why Is TMJ Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is generally only considered when non-surgical treatments have not relieved symptoms. It may be recommended when:
- Pain continues to interfere with daily activities despite conservative management.
- The jaw locks open or closed, restricting normal function.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding noises are associated with limited movement or discomfort.
- Imaging shows structural changes such as displaced discs or joint degeneration.
- TMJ problems are significantly impacting quality of life, such as eating, speaking, or sleeping.
Every case is assessed individually. Risks, benefits, and alternatives are discussed thoroughly so patients can make an informed decision.
Recovery After TMJ Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure:
- Day surgery – Minimally invasive procedures such as arthrocentesis or arthroscopy are often performed as day cases.
- Pain management – Most patients manage with common pain relief such as Panadol® or Nurofen®, with discomfort improving within days.
- Return to work – For minor procedures, patients may return to work within 2–3 days; more extensive surgery may require up to 2–3 weeks off.
- Diet – A soft diet is usually recommended in the early recovery period. Most patients gradually return to a normal diet within 1–2 weeks.
- Follow-up – Regular reviews with Dr van Mourik and the care team ensure healing is progressing as expected and symptoms are improving.
Clear post-operative instructions are provided at consultation, and following these carefully helps reduce the risk of complications and supports safe recovery.
Meet Dr Kristian van Mourik
Dr Kristian van Mourik is a fully qualified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with more than 15 years of specialist practice in Sydney. He holds dual degrees in medicine and dentistry, supported by extensive surgical training, making him one of the few surgeons in Australia with this level of expertise.
Academic background includes:
- Bachelor of Biomedicine – Monash University
- Bachelor of Dentistry with Honours – University of Sydney
- Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery – University of Sydney
His practice covers the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, including TMJ disorders, corrective jaw surgery, wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, trauma surgery, and oral pathology. Dr van Mourik is registered with both the Medical Board of Australia and the Dental Board of Australia as a specialist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Areas We Service for TMJ Management and Surgery
TMJ management and surgery available across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and North Shore.
TMJ FAQs Sydney
Do all TMJ problems require surgery?
No. Most TMJ conditions are managed with conservative care. Surgery is only recommended when symptoms persist and interfere with quality of life.
What is recovery like after TMJ surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure. Minimally invasive options often require only a few days of downtime, while open surgery involves a longer recovery period.
Are TMJ disorders common in Sydney?
Yes. Many adults across Sydney experience TMJ-related symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking, or stiffness, particularly those who grind or clench their teeth due to stress.
Can stress cause TMJ problems?
Yes. Stress-related clenching and grinding are among the most common causes of TMJ issues. Managing stress is often part of treatment.
Where is TMJ surgery performed?
Procedures are carried out in accredited private hospitals, supported by specialist anaesthetists and surgical teams.
Our Sydney Clinics
Bondi Junction
Located in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, our Bondi Junction clinic is easily accessible by train, bus, and nearby parking.
Lindfield
Conveniently positioned on the North Shore, our Lindfield clinic is close to public transport and offers parking options nearby.