Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of arthrocentesis in the treatment of intra-articular temporomandibular pain and functional improvement of mandibular movements.

Material and methods: Uncontrolled trial in 30 patients with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint pain, 24 women and 6 men, mean age 27.4 ± 10.9 years. Maximum mouth opening was quantified with and without pain in millimeters, the presence or absence of pain in protrusion and lateral movements using visual analogue scale before and after the procedure. Arthrocentesis was performed using 100 ml of 0.9% saline and intravenous sedation.

Results: The average mouth opening with and without pain before and after arthrocentesis, as well as protrusion and lateral movements were statistically significant improvement ( p < 0.001) with Student t and for pain improvement was statistically significant Wilcoxon test ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion: arthrocentesis of the TMJ is a safe and effective for the treatment of temporomandibular joint pain.

Conflict of interest: None declared.