TMJ, short for a temporomandibular joint disorder, is a jaw joint disorder that causes considerable pain and difficulty while chewing and speaking. Dr. Fathimani is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in minimally invasive treatments to address the root cause of your joint disorders and restore optimal functionality.
Minimally Invasive Treatment for TMJ
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint. The disorder can be caused by several factors, including trauma, teeth grinding, and arthritis. Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive treatment for TMJ that can provide significant relief for patients. Unlike traditional surgeries, arthrocentesis is a simple, in-office procedure that involves injecting a sterile solution into the joint to reduce inflammation.
What is Arthrocentesis?
The temporomandibular joint is a small joint located in front of the ear where the lower jawbone (Mandible) meets the skull. The joint is responsible for the movement of the lower jaw and is used constantly throughout the day for chewing, talking, and other facial expressions. TMJ disorders can cause several symptoms, including pain, clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, and Limited ability to open the mouth.
Arthrocentesis is a relatively simple procedure that can be performed in a doctor’s office or outpatient center. The procedure involves inserting needles into the joint and delivering a sterile lactated Ringers solution to remove debris and inflammation. The surgeon also numbs the joint’s surrounding tissues and breaks down scar tissues to alleviate pain. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes and offers significant relief from TMJ pain.
Benefits of Arthrocentesis:
- Minimally invasive TMJ treatment
- Performed via small injections
- Removes debris and the source of inflammation
- Stimulates natural jaw regeneration and healing
- Negligible risk of complications
- Concludes within 30 minutes
The Complete Arthrocentesis Process
Dr. Kayvan Fathimani generally recommends arthrocentesis as the first surgical procedure for patients with displaced TMJ discs. After administering local anesthesia and intravenous sedation, the surgeon places needles into the joint and flushes it with a sterile lactated Ringers solution, which can remove tissue breakdown products and reduce inflammation. The surgeon also manipulates the jaw to remove scar tissues and injects a cocktail of growth factors to stimulate natural cellular regeneration. The treatment concludes within 30 minutes.
Arthrocentesis: Recovery & Downtime
Arthrocentesis is an outpatient procedure, so you can return home the same day. Your jaw joint and the surrounding areas will be numb for a few hours, and you can expect mild swelling for a few days. You may resume most of your daily activities and work within 2 to 3 days, but strenuous workouts should be avoided for a few weeks. You must also follow a soft food diet for a few weeks to avoid aggravating the joint.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Kayvan Fathimani is a triple-board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in cutting-edge minimally invasive and surgical techniques for TMJ disorders. He carefully evaluates your jaws, administers diagnostic tests, and curates a personalized treatment plan. Please schedule a consultation to explore your TMJ treatment options in Lone Tree.
