TMJ Forum - repeat bilateral arthrocentesis ?

Conditions and Diseases > TMJ Forum > repeat bilateral arthrocentesis ?

Q: repeat bilateral arthrocentesis ?

asked by: MelanieV on February 18th, 2008

New User

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to this forum, but not to TMJ.
I had my wisdom teeth removed in 2000, and have been living with a semi-dislocated jaw since.
I saw an oral surgeon in 2006 who performed a bilateral arthrocentesis on me in that same year. It was tender for a few months, but then I had no problems during 2007. Unfortunately it's now starting to act up again. I'm thinking it's almost about time to visit my oral surgeon again and see if he thinks its appropriate to perform another arthrocentesis.

I'm just not sure if I should bother yet. The muscles in my face are getting sore as well as the jaw itself, but I'm experiencing no locking this time, and I still have full range of motion.

Would anyone have any suggestions for me? I'm also due for a trip to the dentist, but I've been putting it off because I know I can't handle having my mouth open for that length of time.

Thanks
Mel.

Replies(5)

TMJWorld

replied on February 19th, 2008

Extremely eHealthy

I think you could put it off for a while. id get in to the dentist but let him know that you need a break every so often and then remind him when you need a break

have you been being treated for tmd during this good time at all?

MelanieV

replied on February 24th, 2008

New User

No, I haven't been treated during the good time. My OMS suggested a new splint (which I agree with), but I just could not afford it at the time. Now I still can't afford it, but I know that there is no point in going back to see him unless I'm ready and prepared for the arthrocentesis or the splint. Also, from what he was saying to me last year, it sounds like the splint will cost more than the procedure.

I guess I can hold out a bit longer, and yes, I know I really have to get myself to the dentist.

TMJWorld

replied on February 25th, 2008

Extremely eHealthy

Well dont push your self to put it off for too long. hang in there. and let me k now if i can do anyting for you.

15412

replied on October 20th, 2009

New User

I am wating to have arthiosentesis on my jaw in Halifax is there any sideeffects to the cortersteriods they inject in you and I am very worried it will cause weight gain is this a sideeffect? please help me to understand what the procedure is about ,how long it takes ,will I have general anthestic

MelanieV

replied on October 20th, 2009

New User

My problems this time around weren't actually to do with the joint, it was all muscular, and still is.

The procedure takes around 15 minutes (per joint) so half hour if you have both done. They'll put you under with "twilight sleep", so your not technically under, you're just asleep. I didn't really have any side effects with mine. I was groggy from the twilight sleep, and in a bit of pain, but that only lasted for a few days.

From what I understand, they insert the needles into the joint to clear out the scar tissue and then manipulate your jaw to unlock it and help you get a greater range of motion. This isn't successful for everyone, but it was for me.

Good luck.

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