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TMJ Injections Specialist

NY Neurology Associates -  - Neurologist

NY Neurology Associates

Neurologists & Pain Medicine located in Upper East Side, New York, NY & Upper West Side, New York, NY

Photo illustration of a senior woman experiencing mandibular pain

TMJ disorder affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain and dysfunction in the jaw as well as chronic headaches. TMJ injections help relieve painful symptoms in patients at New York Neurology Associates, with locations on Long Island, NY, and the Upper East Side, Upper West Side and Downtown neighborhoods of New York City.

TMJ Injections Q & A

What does TMJ stand for?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the joint located on either side of the jaw where the skull meets the lower jawbone or mandible. Sometimes, this joint can become irritated or inflamed, resulting in painful symptoms when chewing, talking or even yawning. People with TMJ disorder often have chronic jaw pain and headaches as a result of the inflammation, which can cause uneven and continual stress and strain on the joint. In some cases, normal range of motion in the joint can also be diminished.

What are TMJ joint blocks?

TMJ joint blocks are injections of medications designed to reduce inflammation and irritation in the temporomandibular joint. These injections can be performed right in the office in less than a half hour on an outpatient basis. TMJ injections can be very effective in relieving painful symptoms as well as relieving the underlying inflammation in the joint. Injections can be repeated to provide long-term relief when needed.

What happens during the procedure?

TMJ injections are performed in the office using a local anesthetic to numb the injection site, sometimes combined with mild sedation to help the patient relax and stay comfortable. During the procedure, the injection sites are cleansed and the medications are administered to each jaw joint. In addition to anti-inflammatory medications, BOTOX or other medications can also be used, depending on the patient’s specific symptoms. When BOTOX is used, it acts to block nerve signals that cause the jaw joints to spasm and contract so painful symptoms are relieved. Once the injections are complete, the patient will need to sit in an upright position for an hour to ensure the medication remains in the joint while it takes effect. Most patients find relief from symptoms within a day or two of the procedure, but in some patients, it may take up to a week to see the effects.

Accepted Health Insurance Plans

See our list of the insurances we accept. If you don't see yours, please call our office.

1199 National Benefit Fund
Aetna
BCBS
Cigna
EmblemHealth
MagnaCare
Medicare
Meritain Health
Oxford United Healthcare
The Empire Plan
United Healthcare
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