Arthritis of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

Treatment for TMJ arthritis depends on its form and is determined by the doctor following a thorough examination and identification of the underlying causes.

Acute TMJ arthritis is managed first and foremost by immobilizing the joint — using a sling-type bandage and an interocclusal splint. During this phase, only liquid food is permitted. The goal of treating traumatic arthritis is to relieve pain and promote the resorption of blood within the joint, ultimately restoring full joint function. To achieve this, analgesics and local cryotherapy (cold application) are used for the first few days, followed by approximately six days of regular UHF (ultra-high frequency) therapy. At the doctor’s discretion, compresses, mud therapy, and ozocerite therapy may also be prescribed.

When traumatic arthritis progresses to a chronic form, the treatment approach shifts to ultrasound therapy, massage of the masticatory muscles, ozocerite therapy, paraffin therapy, and myogymnastics (targeted jaw muscle exercises).

Rheumatic and rheumatoid arthritis are successfully managed using conservative methods, including steroidal and non-steroidal medications as well as antibacterial agents. Oral cavity rehabilitation and dental prosthetics are also required as part of the treatment.

Purulent (septic) TMJ arthritis most commonly develops as a complication of a neglected case and requires immediate surgical intervention — incision and drainage of the affected joint. At the conclusion of treatment, physiotherapy is prescribed, including UHF therapy, compresses, diathermy, and electrophoresis.

TMJ arthritis can progress rapidly and demands prompt medical attention. Treating advanced-stage cases requires significantly more effort and time, and is considerably harder on the patient. Med-Deo strongly recommends not putting off a visit to your doctor.