TMJ Injections

Why is TMJ injection performed?

TMJ injections can be performed to reduce inflammation, relief pain, and temporarily reduce friction between joint surfaces. Varies medications can be injected to TMJ(s). The medications that are frequently used are corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, and local anesthetics.

What are indications of TMJ injection?

Indications of corticosteroid injection include:

  • Swelling and pain secondary to trauma
  • Acute osteoarthritis
  • Internal derangement of TMJs

Indications of Hyaluronic acid injection include:

  • Painful clicking
  • Acute osteoarthritis
  • Episodic locking of TMJ

Indication of local anesthetic injection include:

  • TMJ mobilization

What are contraindications of TMJ injections?

  • Jaw injury
  • Infected TMJ
  • Medication allergy

References

  1. Orofacial Pain: guidelines for assessment, diagnosis, and management. American Academy of orofacial pain. Fifth edition. Reny De Leeuw, DDS, PhD, MPH and Gary D. Klasser, DMD
  2. Bell’s oral and facial pain. 7th edition. Jeffrey P. Okeson, DMD
  3. American Association of Dental Sleep Medicine


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