Arthrocentesis is a diagnostic and treatment method for oral, dental, and jaw joint diseases. The term “arthrocentesis” is a combination of the Greek words “arthron” (joint) and “centesis” (to puncture), referring to the procedure of extracting and analyzing fluid from the joints. It is a commonly used technique in oral and maxillofacial surgery, particularly for diagnosing and treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Why Is Arthrocentesis Performed in Jaw Joint Disorders?

  • Diagnosis: Joint fluid is examined to determine the cause of symptoms such as pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the jaw joint area.
  • Treatment: Draining the inflammatory fluid that has accumulated in the joint can reduce pain and swelling.
  • Medication Injection: Injecting anti-inflammatory medications, such as cortisone, directly into the joint can alleviate pain and inflammation.

How Is Arthrocentesis Performed?

Arthrocentesis is typically a simple procedure performed under local anesthesia. Once the jaw joint area is numbed, a thin needle is inserted into the joint to extract fluid. During the procedure, patients may feel slight pressure.

Benefits of Arthrocentesis

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Analyzing the joint fluid allows for a definitive identification of the cause of the jaw joint disease.
  • Rapid Pain Relief: Draining the inflammatory fluid from the joint quickly reduces pain and swelling.
  • Guidance for Treatment: The findings obtained from arthrocentesis help determine the appropriate treatment method.

Are There Risks Associated with Arthrocentesis?

While arthrocentesis is generally a safe procedure, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage; however, these risks are quite low.

Arthrocentesis Treatment at A1 Dent

At A1 Dent, we utilize the latest technologies in diagnosing and treating jaw joint diseases. Our expert team provides quick and effective solutions through arthrocentesis procedures.

Arthrocentesis plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating jaw joint disorders. At A1 Dent, we aim to enhance our patients’ quality of life by performing this procedure safely and comfortably.