TMJ Injections in Cincinnati - APSI Wellness
Learn about TMJ injections for jaw pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and facial pain at APSI Wellness in Cincinnati.
TMJ Injections — TMJ injections deliver medication directly into the temporomandibular joint to reduce inflammation, relieve jaw pain, and improve jaw mobility for patients with TMJ disorders.
What Are TMJ Injections?
TMJ injections are minimally invasive procedures that deliver corticosteroid and local anesthetic directly into the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — the hinge joint on each side of the jaw that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. TMJ disorders affect millions of people and can cause significant jaw pain, difficulty chewing, clicking or locking of the jaw, and facial pain.
When conservative treatments like oral appliances, physical therapy, and medications don't provide adequate relief, TMJ injections can be an effective next step.
How Do They Work?
The TMJ is a complex joint with a fibrocartilaginous disc that can become displaced, inflamed, or degenerated. The injection delivers:
Corticosteroid to reduce inflammation within the joint capsule and surrounding tissues
Local anesthetic for immediate pain relief and diagnostic confirmation
Medication is placed directly into the joint space to address intra-articular pathology
Conditions Treated
TMJ osteoarthritis — degenerative joint disease of the TMJ
TMJ synovitis — inflammation of the joint lining
Internal derangement — disc displacement causing clicking, popping, or locking
TMJ capsulitis — inflammation of the joint capsule
Bruxism-related TMJ pain — from chronic teeth grinding or clenching
Myofascial pain — when combined with trigger point injections of the jaw muscles
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before: No fasting is required. You may need to stop blood-thinning medications.
During: You'll sit or lie on your back. The physician locates the TMJ by palpation as you open and close your mouth. The skin is cleaned and numbed. A thin needle is inserted into the joint space — sometimes with ultrasound guidance for accuracy. The medication is injected. The procedure takes 5-10 minutes per side.
After: You may notice immediate improvement from the local anesthetic. A soft diet is recommended for 24 hours. Avoid excessive jaw opening, chewing gum, or hard foods for several days. The steroid reaches peak effect in 5-7 days.
Benefits
Provides targeted anti-inflammatory treatment to the TMJ
Quick, in-office procedure
Immediate diagnostic value — confirms the TMJ as the pain source
Can significantly improve jaw mobility and reduce pain
Allows patients to participate more effectively in jaw physical therapy
Can provide weeks to months of relief
Risks and Side Effects
Temporary soreness in the jaw area
Temporary facial numbness near the injection site
Temporary difficulty fully opening the mouth (resolves in hours)
Infection (very rare)
Allergic reaction (rare)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does relief last from a TMJ injection?
Relief varies but typically lasts several weeks to several months. Some patients experience longer-lasting benefit, especially when the injection is combined with physical therapy and stress management.
Can both TMJs be injected at the same time?
Yes. If both joints are symptomatic, they can be treated in the same session.
How many injections can I have in my TMJ?
Most physicians recommend limiting corticosteroid injections to 2-3 per joint per year to avoid potential cartilage effects from repeated steroid exposure.
Will the injection affect my ability to eat?
The local anesthetic may temporarily numb part of your jaw, making chewing awkward for a few hours. A soft diet is recommended for the first 24 hours after the injection.
Should I continue wearing my mouth guard after the injection?
Yes. If you've been prescribed an oral appliance (night guard or splint), continue using it as directed. The injection treats inflammation, while the appliance addresses the mechanical factors contributing to your TMJ disorder.
What if injections don't help my TMJ pain?
If injections don't provide relief, your physician may recommend additional evaluation including advanced imaging, arthroscopy, or consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for more complex TMJ conditions.
APSI Wellness — Advanced Pain Solutions & Interventions
5405 DuPont Circle Suite A, Milford, OH 45150 | Phone: (513) 936-3050
https://apsiwellness.com/services/tmj-injections