Arthrocentesis

Arthrocentesis Surgery

The jaw joint has cartilage between the two bones, sometimes from various causes, this gets pushed out of position. This results in inflammation and often pain.

Arthrocentesis is performed by an oral surgeon and flushes the jaw joint area between the bones with sterile water in an attempt to allow the cartilage to slip back into the correct position. There are two needles one pumping the water in under pressure the other removing it. This type of jaw surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic so you won’t experience any discomfort while the operation is taking place. Often your jaw surgeon will need to do some manipulating and repositioning of the jaw during the procedure to encourage the cartilage to slip back into place.

Jaw Joint Procedures

Recovery From Arthrocentesis

After your jaw procedure and for several days after there will be some discomfort, and it is likely that the area around the Jaw Joint will become swollen due to the movement and manipulation of the joint.

Your oral surgeon will discuss pain relief with you so you are in as little discomfort as possible, typically standard over the counter pain medication will be enough. If you are experiencing pain in between doses you can also use cold and heat packs to help with the stiffness you may be experiencing. The jaw will be stiff for a couple of weeks following your jaw surgery often people having trouble opening the jaw fully, this is very normal and it will need some time to heal.

Physiotherapy is recommended to further help with jaw rehabilitation and enhance the procedure. You will need to have a follow-up consultation with your oral surgeon a few weeks after your surgery.

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