Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can lead to jaw pain, stiffness, and difficulty with everyday movements. It affects the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull, often making simple actions like chewing, speaking, or yawning uncomfortable. Causes may include muscle tension, joint inflammation, or habits such as teeth grinding.
In some situations, where treatments like physiotherapy, bite splints, or medication haven’t provided relief, a healthcare professional may recommend injection therapy. These injections may be part of a broader management plan involving clinically approved substances, depending on your diagnosis and symptoms. Evidence suggests that injections may assist in reducing discomfort when used alongside other TMJ therapies, though results vary for each person.
In this blog, we’ll explore the common patient question: how is an injection done for TMJ? We’ll break down what happens during the procedure and share tips to help you prepare. Whether you’ve already booked your appointment or are still deciding on treatment, this guide offers practical information to support your journey.
Contents Navigation
- 1 Summary of the Content
- 2 Understanding When Injections May Be Considered for TMJ Disorders
- 3 Why Preparation Before Your Appointment Matters
- 4 Steps to Take Before TMJ Injections
- 5 What to Expect on the Day of Your TMJ Injection
- 6 Questions to Ask Your Dentist
- 7 When to Contact Your Dentist
- 8 Final Thoughts
- 9 Our Practitioners
Summary of the Content
- TMJ injections may be recommended as part of a broader management plan for some types of jaw joint discomfort.
- These injections can involve clinically approved substances, selected according to your individual needs.
- A qualified dental professional will assess your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals to determine if this approach is suitable for you.
- Preparing for your appointment supports effective and personalised treatment for TMJ-related pain and dysfunction.
- During your initial consultation, you’ll be asked to share any medications, allergies, or health conditions that may influence your care.
- On the day of your appointment, your dentist may advise you on eating, drinking, or medication use beforehand.
- Some patients choose to arrange for transport, particularly if they’re feeling nervous or are advised to avoid driving.
- After your appointment, it’s helpful to keep the rest of the day clear so you can rest and monitor how you’re feeling.
Understanding When Injections May Be Considered for TMJ Disorders
Injection therapy may be one of several clinical options that a registered dental or medical professional considers when managing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These conditions can involve muscle tension, inflammation, or joint irritation, all of which contribute to jaw muscle pain and restricted movement. Injectable treatments are sometimes used when other conservative measures — such as oral splints, physiotherapy, or medication prescribed during consultation — have not provided sufficient relief.
Importantly, specific prescription-only medicines or substances cannot be named or advertised to the public. The focus should remain on the overall care process, not on individual products. (Some injection therapies for TMJ involve prescription-only medicines, which cannot be advertised to the public under TGA regulations. Specific products will only be discussed during your consultation.)
What Injection Therapy Involves
- A qualified health professional will assess your medical and dental history, symptoms, and previous treatments before recommending any injectable procedure.
- The goal is to reduce local inflammation, relieve muscle tension, or improve jaw function as part of a broader TMJ management plan.
- The procedure usually involves targeting structures around the jaw joint that may contribute to discomfort.
- All procedures are performed using sterile techniques in a clinical setting.
- Your dentist will help you understand the benefits, risks, and alternatives before treatment.
Possible Benefits and Limitations
- Injections may be considered when other non-invasive treatments have not provided adequate relief.
- Some patients report improvement in jaw comfort, muscle relaxation, or range of motion, though outcomes vary between individuals.
- Results depend on several factors, including diagnosis, symptom severity, and medical history.
- TMJ injection therapy is usually combined with other management strategies — such as bite splints, jaw exercises, or stress reduction techniques — rather than used alone.
Risks and Considerations
All medical procedures carry some level of risk. Your healthcare professional will discuss these with you in detail, but they may include the following:
- Patients may experience temporary tenderness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site following treatment.
- Some people notice mild jaw stiffness or discomfort for a short period after the procedure, which generally settles naturally.
- The response to treatment can vary between individuals, and not all patients will experience an improvement in symptoms.
- Allergic or sensitivity reactions are uncommon but can occur, depending on each person’s medical history and individual factors.
- Following your healthcare professional’s instructions before and after the procedure will support comfort and recovery.
What Happens Next
- After the initial assessment, your healthcare professional will confirm whether an injectable treatment is suitable for your condition.
- You’ll receive individualised guidance on preparation, aftercare, and what to monitor following treatment.
- Your healthcare professional may recommend a follow-up review to evaluate your response and discuss any further care that may be appropriate.
Why Preparation Before Your Appointment Matters
Preparing ahead of your TMJ injection appointment can make the experience more comfortable and reduce the risk of issues during or after the procedure. It allows for clear communication, proper planning, and consideration of your medical history — all of which contribute to a smoother process. While outcomes vary between individuals, preparation can also help you feel more informed about your care.
Here are several reasons why preparation is important:
- Helps promote comfort:
Providing your complete medical history, including any medications, allergies, or conditions, gives your healthcare professional the information they need to plan treatment appropriately. - Minimises possible complications:
Following instructions around eating, drinking, or medication use may reduce the chance of swelling, bruising at the injection site, or temporary discomfort after the procedure. - Encourages better communication:
Bringing questions to your appointment can help clarify what to expect before, during, and after the injection. - May ease anxiety:
Knowing how an injection is done for TMJ and what to expect on the day of the procedure can help reduce uncertainty. - Allows for personalised planning:
Preparation gives your healthcare professional insight into your symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences, which may influence the TMJ treatment plan. - Helps align expectations:
Understanding that TMJ injections are one of many treatment options can lead to more realistic discussions about possible outcomes. - Makes the day more manageable:
Arranging transport, clearing your schedule, or planning quiet time afterwards can help reduce stress on the day of your appointment. - Improves aftercare readiness:
Knowing what to do post-procedure — such as avoiding certain movements or monitoring for side effects — may help you feel more at ease during recovery.
Steps to Take Before TMJ Injections
Preparing in the days leading up to your TMJ injection can help reduce stress, avoid delays, and make the experience more manageable. Every person’s situation is different, and these preparation steps are general guidelines. Your healthcare professional will provide personalised instructions during your consultation.
At Your Initial Consultation
This first appointment lays the groundwork for your treatment plan. Before injections are considered, your healthcare provider will need a complete picture of your health and past care.
Be prepared to discuss the following:
- Share your full medical history:
Include previous surgeries, jaw injuries, or medical conditions. These details help the healthcare professional understand how temporomandibular joint disorders are affecting your health. - List all medications and supplements:
Some medicines may interact with substances used in TMJ injections. Disclosing this helps reduce the risk of unwanted side effects, such as swelling or bruising. - Mention any allergies or sensitivities:
Allergies to anaesthetics or injectable agents need to be considered. This information helps your provider select an appropriate injection technique. - Talk about previous treatments:
If you’ve tried options like physical therapy, pain relievers, or oral splints, let your dentist know. Understanding what has or hasn’t helped in the past can inform the next steps in your treatment plan.
On the Day of Your Appointment
Being prepared on the day of your procedure can reduce uncertainty and help your appointment go more smoothly. These small steps can make a big difference to how you feel before and after treatment.
You may want to consider the following tips:
- Dress in comfortable clothing:
Choose loose-fitting clothes, especially around the jaw and neck area. This helps you stay relaxed during the procedure. - Bring a written list of questions:
Asking about the injection site, possible side effects, or aftercare can clarify what to expect. Preparing questions may help you feel more informed going in. - Arrive with extra time:
Giving yourself a little buffer before the appointment can make the experience less rushed. It also allows time to complete any remaining paperwork. - Keep the rest of your day light:
Avoid scheduling demanding activities right before or after your injection. A calm schedule may help reduce muscle tension in the jaw and neck.
What to Expect on the Day of Your TMJ Injection
Your healthcare professional may provide instructions on food or drink depending on the medication and type of injection used. Following these guidelines can help reduce discomfort and avoid any possible complications.
Ask your dentist if any of the following apply:
- Avoid heavy meals if advised:
A light meal may be recommended, especially if sedation or certain medications are involved. Your dentist will advise based on the planned treatment. - Drink water unless told otherwise:
Staying hydrated can help with general comfort. Always follow specific advice provided by your healthcare professional. - Follow time-based instructions:
You may be asked to avoid food or drink for a certain period before your appointment. This depends on the injection technique and any medication that may be administered.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist
Asking questions before receiving TMJ injections is an important part of preparing for care. It encourages open discussion about your condition, available treatment options, and what the procedure may involve. While each person’s situation is different, shared decision-making helps your healthcare provider tailor a plan that aligns with your individual needs.
Here are some helpful questions to ask during your consultation, along with why they matter:
- What are the possible benefits of TMJ injections for my condition?
Understanding why injections may be recommended can help you see how they fit into your overall treatment plan. In some cases, TMJ injections are considered when symptoms such as facial pain, muscle tension, or jaw discomfort are linked to conditions like temporomandibular joint disorders or myofascial pain.
Your healthcare provider may explain how different substances are used in injection therapy, depending on the suspected cause of your symptoms. This conversation can also highlight how injections compare with other treatment options. - What are the risks or side effects I should know about?
All treatments carry risks, and TMJ injections are no exception. Common side effects, when they occur, may include temporary discomfort, bruising at the injection site, or mild swelling, as reported in clinical studies.
In rare cases, patients may experience reactions depending on their medical history or sensitivity to certain substances. Your provider will discuss the likelihood of side effects and explain how different injection techniques are used to help reduce risk. - What aftercare instructions will I need to follow?
Your provider may give you specific guidance to follow after your procedure. This might include recommendations to rest the jaw, avoid vigorous jaw movement, or apply a cold compress around the affected area.
Aftercare may vary depending on the injection technique used and your individual response. Knowing what to expect ahead of time helps you plan for recovery and monitor for any concerns. - How long will it take to feel relief, and how long might the results last?
Some patients report a change in symptoms within a few days, but response times vary. Relief from symptoms like jaw tension or facial pain may depend on several factors, including the type of injection, the severity of the condition, and how the body responds.
Your provider can also discuss how long results usually last and whether follow-up appointments may be recommended. This helps set realistic expectations for your treatment plan. - Are there other treatment options I should consider?
Asking “How is an injection done for TMJ compared to other approaches?” is a valuable way to start a conversation about your options. Conservative treatments such as oral splints, physical therapy, jaw exercises, and lifestyle modifications may also be discussed depending on your symptoms.
Some patients benefit from using a combination of therapies for TMJ pain management and improved jaw function. Exploring alternatives with your provider can help guide a personalised treatment approach based on your diagnosis, preferences, and previous responses to care.
When to Contact Your Dentist
After TMJ injections, many patients return to their usual routines with little disruption. However, it’s helpful to know what signs may prompt a follow-up conversation with your healthcare provider. Monitoring your recovery and reaching out with questions can be part of effective TMJ management.
You may want to contact your dentist if you experience the following:
- Jaw pain that increases or persists longer than expected:
Some discomfort or tightness in the jaw area is typical after injections for TMJ disorders, especially around the injection site. If jaw pain continues for several days or starts to worsen instead of improving, it may be worth discussing with your provider. They can evaluate whether this relates to muscle tension, joint irritation, or another factor requiring attention. - Swelling or bruising that does not gradually subside:
Mild swelling or bruising at the injection site is a common side effect and usually fades within a few days. If the area appears more inflamed or changes noticeably, your healthcare professional can assess whether this is part of normal post-procedure recovery or requires monitoring. Individual reactions can vary depending on the injection technique and personal medical conditions. - Unusual sensations such as numbness or tightness in the jaw or facial muscles:
You may notice some changes in sensation after injection therapy, including temporary muscle tightness or mild numbness near the treatment site. If these feelings become uncomfortable, continue for longer than expected, or affect your daily jaw function, it’s reasonable to speak with your provider. Early feedback can help them determine whether these are temporary responses or related to your specific anatomy or muscle activity. - Restricted jaw movement or difficulty chewing:
It’s not uncommon to feel slight stiffness in the jaw joint after TMJ injections. However, if you experience limited jaw movement or difficulty opening your mouth or chewing that doesn’t improve within a few days, it may be helpful to follow up. Your provider can check for muscle spasms, jaw tension, or other contributing factors. - Concerns about how your symptoms are progressing:
Every person’s recovery experience is different, and it’s okay to reach out if anything feels unusual or unclear. Questions about facial pain, jaw tension, or the duration of symptom relief can be addressed during a review appointment. Open communication helps guide your treatment plan and supports appropriate care moving forward.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for TMJ injections can help patients feel more informed and involved in their care. Knowing what to expect — from your initial consultation to aftercare instructions — may help reduce anxiety and allow for more comfortable planning. These steps can help clarify expectations and support a smoother experience overall.
TMJ disorders vary widely between individuals, and treatment should be tailored accordingly. Some people may benefit from injection therapy when symptoms like jaw pain or muscle tension affect daily function. In contrast, others may explore options like physical therapy, oral splints, or other conservative approaches. A personalised approach considers your symptoms, medical history, and how your condition responds to various therapies.
If you’re asking, “How is an injection done for TMJ?” or wondering whether this treatment is right for your situation, seeking professional advice is a helpful next step. The team at My Dentist Blackwood can provide more information and discuss whether TMJ injections or other treatments are appropriate for your needs. To explore your options, you’re welcome to contact the clinic for a personalised consultation.
Our Practitioners
All TMJ consultations and injection procedures at My Dentist Blackwood are performed by registered dental practitioners with the Dental Board of Australia.
- Dr. Tina Le — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0001411332)
- Dr. Diana Castrillon — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0002170625)
- Dr. Emma Chin — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0002134625)
- Dr. Liesl Collins — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0001659430)
Each practitioner is registered under the National Law and provides care in accordance with AHPRA’s professional and advertising standards.
General Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Dental Implants
Clear Aligners
Emergency Dentist
Childrens Dentist