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      TMJ Arthrocentesis

      Minimally invasive treatment to TMJ Disorders

      TMJ Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat problems in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). By flushing the joint with a sterile solution, the procedure helps reduce inflammation, improve jaw mobility, and alleviate pain caused by TMJ disorders.

      At SameDay Dental Clinic, we may recommend this treatment to patients experiencing jaw stiffness or locking, chronic pain associated with TMJ disorders, limited mouth opening, or persistent inflammation that has not improved with medications or other therapies.

      TMJ Arthrocentesis

      Process of TMJ Arthrocentesis at SameDay

      Consultation and Diagnosis

      The process begins with a thorough consultation with one of our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMS). During this session, your surgeon will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and X-rays to confirm that arthrocentesis is the most appropriate treatment for you.

      Preparation and Anesthesia

      On the day of the procedure, the surgical area is cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the joint area, but general anesthesia may be offered for patients who require deeper sedation or have significant anxiety. This ensures the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure.

      TMJ Arthrocentesis Procedure

      The surgeon inserts two small needles into the joint, allowing a sterile fluid to flush out debris and reduce inflammation. In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), or hyaluronic acid may be introduced to enhance pain relief and improve joint function.

      Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

      You will be provided with aftercare instructions, including prescribed exercises to restore joint mobility, pain management guidelines, and follow-up schedules. Most patients experience noticeable improvements in joint function and reduced pain shortly after the procedure.

      Benefits of TMJ Arthrocentesis

      Relief from TMJ pain

      TMJ arthrocentesis effectively reduces pain by flushing out inflammatory substances and relieving joint pressure.

      Improved jaw mobility

      By removing debris and adhesions, this procedure helps restore smooth and functional jaw movement.

      Enhanced quality of life

      Patients often experience significant improvement in daily activities, such as eating and speaking, without discomfort.

      Quick recovery time

      As a minimally invasive procedure, TMJ arthrocentesis allows for faster recovery compared to open joint surgery.

      Recovery and Post-Operative Care Tips

      Following your treatment, it's crucial to take specific steps to ensure a smooth recovery. If general anesthesia was used during the procedure, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in strenuous activities for at least 48 hours.

      Applying cold packs to the treated area can help reduce swelling and provide comfort in the initial recovery phase. Adopting a soft diet for the first few days minimizes strain on the jaw and supports healing. To avoid complications, limit jaw overuse, follow your surgeon's recommendations diligently, and attend follow-up appointments for monitoring and potential supplementary therapies to optimize recovery.

      Our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

      Dr. Costa Nicolopoulos

      BDS cum laude, FFD (SA) MFOS
      Specialist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
      View Profile

      Dr. Indraniil Roy

      BDS, MDS, MSc (Germany)
      Specialist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
      View Profile

      Frequently Asked Questions

      TMJ arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat problems in the temporomandibular joint. It works by flushing the joint with a sterile solution to remove inflammatory substances and debris, reducing pain and restoring jaw mobility. It is a step up from non-surgical therapies such as splint treatment, but significantly less involved than open joint surgery.

      It may be recommended for patients experiencing jaw stiffness or locking, limited mouth opening, chronic TMJ pain, or persistent inflammation that has not improved with medication or other non-surgical therapies. The decision is made following a thorough consultation and assessment with one of SameDay's Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.

      The joint area is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthesia. The surgeon then inserts two small needles into the joint, allowing a sterile fluid to flush through it. In some cases, additional medications — such as corticosteroids, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), or hyaluronic acid — may be introduced at the same time to further reduce pain and improve joint function. The procedure is minimally invasive and does not involve open surgery.

      The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during it. General anaesthesia is also available for patients who require deeper sedation or have significant anxiety. Some tenderness or swelling in the area afterwards is normal and typically resolves within a few days.

      Recovery is generally straightforward. Cold packs can help with any swelling in the first day or two, and a soft diet for the first few days minimises strain on the joint. You will be given specific exercises to help restore jaw mobility, along with pain management guidance and a follow-up schedule. Most patients notice an improvement in jaw function and pain levels shortly after the procedure. If general anaesthesia was used, you should avoid driving or strenuous activity for at least 48 hours.

      Arthrocentesis is minimally invasive — it involves two small needle insertions rather than a surgical incision into the joint. This means less tissue disruption, a faster recovery, and lower procedural risk. It is typically considered before open joint surgery, which is reserved for more complex structural problems that cannot be addressed through less invasive means.

      The procedure is carried out by SameDay's Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons — Dr. Costa Nicolopoulos and Dr. Indraniil Roy — who conduct a full assessment beforehand to confirm that arthrocentesis is the most appropriate treatment for each individual patient.