TMJ Injections & Arthrocentesis

Targeting the Root of Your TMJ Pain—Safely and Effectively

At Advanced TMJ Maxillofacial Pain & Sleep Center, we offer minimally -invasive in-office solutions for painful or restricted temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Two of the most effective options for joint-related TMJ symptoms are therapeutic joint injections and arthrocentesis, both of which are targeted, evidence-based procedures.

If you're dealing with chronic jaw pain, joint noises, or difficulty opening your mouth, you may benefit from these treatments.

What Are TMJ Joint Injections?

TMJ joint injections involve delivering medication directly into the joint space to reduce inflammation, improve lubrication, and restore comfort. These are commonly used for patients with TMJ disorders involving arthritis, joint overuse, or trauma.

We may use:

Corticosteroids to calm inflammation
Hyaluronic acid to restore synovial fluid balance
PRP injections
Botox® for chronic joint and muscle spasm conditions — learn more about Botox therapy

In many cases, TMJ joint injections are performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with other therapies like oral appliance therapy for long-term joint support.

What Is Arthrocentesis?

Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive lavage procedure used to:

Flush out inflammatory mediators from the joint space
Break down adhesions
Improve mouth opening and jaw mobility

It is commonly indicated for:

Disc displacement without reduction (closed lock)
Chronic inflammatory TMJ conditions
Failed response to conservative measures

This procedure is often combined with a medication injection afterward to prolong relief and aid healing.

Who May Benefit from These Treatments?

TMJ joint injections or arthrocentesis may be recommended for patients with:

Degenerative joint disease or arthritis of the TMJ
Joint clicking, popping, or locking
Limited mouth opening
Chronic pain associated with jaw movement
TMJ-related headaches — explore headache and migraine treatment

If you’ve tried night guards, medications, or physical therapy without lasting relief, these procedures may offer a next step toward recovery.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Performed in-office under sterile conditions
Local anesthesia ensures comfort
Ultrasound or anatomical guidance is used
Little to no downtime—most return to daily activities within 24–48 hours
You may receive follow-up instructions and supportive therapies like oral appliance therapy, Botox, cupping, ultrasound or physical rehabilitation

Why Choose Our Seattle TMJ Clinic?

Led by an Oral Surgeon & Board-Certified Orofacial Pain Specialist with strong understanding of head & neck anatomy
Focused on non-surgical, minimally invasive evidence-based care
Personalized approach using advanced diagnostics such as CBCT
Medical insurance-friendly
Located conveniently in downtown Seattle