How PRP Injections Heal TMJ Pain From the Inside Out

You've heard that PRP can help TMJ pain. Perhaps your dentist mentioned it, or you've read about it online. But how does drawing blood from your arm actually heal a damaged jaw joint?

This isn't a vague promise or marketing hype. PRP for temporomandibular disorders has been studied in randomised controlled trials, with research published in peer-reviewed medical journals demonstrating significant improvements in pain, jaw function and quality of life.

Understanding how this treatment works can help you decide whether it's right for your situation.

The Problem PRP Solves

Your temporomandibular joint contains several components that can become damaged. The articular disc, a piece of cartilage that cushions the joint, can wear down or slip out of position. The synovial membrane, which produces lubricating fluid, can become inflamed. The cartilage covering the bone surfaces can degenerate.

Unlike skin, which heals readily when cut, joint tissues have limited natural healing capacity. They receive relatively poor blood supply, which means fewer repair cells reach damaged areas. This explains why TMJ problems tend to worsen rather than improve over time.

Traditional treatments work around this limitation. Anti-inflammatory medications suppress the immune response that causes pain but don't repair tissue. Splints protect against further damage but can't undo existing wear. Surgery can remove damaged tissue or reposition the disc but carries significant risks and recovery time.

PRP takes a different approach entirely. It supercharges your body's natural repair mechanisms by delivering concentrated growth factors directly where healing needs to occur.

What Happens When PRP Enters Your TMJ

Platelet-rich plasma contains several hundred growth factors and signalling proteins that orchestrate tissue repair. When injected into your temporomandibular joint, these bioactive molecules trigger a cascade of healing responses.

Immediate Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Within hours of injection, growth factors including transforming growth factor beta begin modulating inflammation. Unlike cortisone, which suppresses all immune activity, PRP redirects the inflammatory response from tissue destruction toward repair. This means reduced pain without the tissue-weakening side effects associated with steroid injections.

Cartilage Cell Stimulation

Platelet-derived growth factor and insulin-like growth factor stimulate chondrocytes, the cells responsible for producing and maintaining cartilage. Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences showed that PRP promotes chondrocyte proliferation and increases production of cartilage matrix proteins.

Collagen Synthesis

Damaged joint tissues require new collagen for structural repair. Growth factors in PRP activate fibroblasts, which synthesise the collagen fibres that give cartilage and ligaments their strength. This process continues for weeks after injection.

Synovial Fluid Improvement

The synovial membrane responds to PRP by producing higher quality joint fluid with improved lubricating properties. This reduces friction within the joint, decreasing pain during movement and potentially slowing further wear.

What the Clinical Research Shows

The evidence base for PRP in TMJ treatment has grown substantially over the past decade.

A 2018 study published in Medicine compared PRP with another common treatment, arthrocentesis, which involves flushing the joint with saline. Researchers found that while both treatments reduced pain and joint sounds, PRP showed superior results for several outcomes including headache reduction, jaw mobility and pain during chewing.

A 2024 randomised controlled trial in Cureus examined 128 young adults with mild TMD. The PRP group showed statistically significant improvements in pain levels at both four and eight weeks compared to placebo. Researchers concluded that PRP represents a promising minimally invasive intervention for TMJ disorders.

A systematic review examining multiple studies found that PRP injections were effective in reducing pain and joint sounds while improving mandibular motion in follow-ups extending to 24 months.

These aren't isolated findings. The consistency across multiple research groups studying different patient populations suggests PRP provides genuine therapeutic benefit rather than placebo effect.

The Treatment Process Step by Step

Understanding what happens during PRP treatment helps set realistic expectations.

Blood Collection

The process begins with drawing approximately 10-20ml of blood from a vein in your arm, similar to a routine blood test. This sample contains all the components needed to create your personalised treatment.

Centrifugation

Your blood enters a centrifuge, a machine that spins at high speed to separate components by density. Red blood cells, which are heaviest, settle at the bottom. Plasma rises to the top. Between them sits a concentrated layer of platelets, the golden liquid that gives PRP its therapeutic properties.

Preparation

The platelet-rich layer is extracted and prepared for injection. Concentration matters significantly. Higher platelet concentrations correlate with better outcomes in clinical studies. Quality clinics use protocols that achieve 3-5 times baseline platelet concentration.

Injection

Using anatomical landmarks and palpation, the doctor identifies the optimal injection site. Local anaesthetic ensures comfort during the procedure. A fine needle delivers the PRP directly into the joint space, where growth factors can reach damaged tissues.

Total Time

The entire appointment typically takes 30-45 minutes, with the injection itself requiring only a few minutes.

What Happens After Treatment

PRP isn't an instant fix. The healing process it initiates unfolds over weeks and months.

Days 1-3

Some patients experience temporary increased soreness as the immune response activates. This is normal and typically manageable without medication. Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs during this period as they can interfere with the healing cascade PRP initiates.

Weeks 1-2

Initial inflammation subsides. Some patients notice early improvement in symptoms, though this varies considerably.

Weeks 4-6

This is when most patients begin experiencing meaningful symptom reduction. Pain decreases, jaw function improves and clicking often becomes less pronounced.

Weeks 8-12

Tissue regeneration continues. Many patients achieve maximum benefit during this window, though improvements can continue developing for several more months.

Long-term

Clinical studies show sustained benefits at 12 and 24 month follow-ups. Unlike cortisone, which provides temporary relief requiring repeated injections, PRP addresses underlying damage for more durable results.

Optimising Your Results

PRP provides the biological signals for healing, but your body does the actual repair work. Supporting that process improves outcomes.

Nutrition

Tissue repair requires protein for collagen synthesis, vitamin C for collagen cross-linking and omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation regulation. Adequate hydration supports synovial fluid quality.

Movement

Gentle jaw exercises during recovery maintain mobility without stressing healing tissues. Your practitioner can recommend appropriate exercises for your situation.

Stress Management

Teeth grinding and jaw clenching from stress can counteract treatment benefits. Addressing these patterns through awareness, relaxation techniques or appropriate night guards protects your investment in healing.

Avoiding Interference

Anti-inflammatory medications taken in the weeks following PRP can impair the healing response. Discuss any regular medications with your doctor before treatment.

Who Achieves the Best Results

PRP works well for many TMJ patients, but certain factors predict better outcomes.

Ideal Candidates

Patients with mild to moderate TMD typically respond best. Those with inflammatory conditions like synovitis often see dramatic improvement. Younger patients with intact healing capacity generally achieve stronger results. Those willing to follow post-treatment protocols maximise their outcomes.

Less Suitable Candidates

Severe joint deformity requiring surgical reconstruction may not respond adequately to PRP alone. Patients unable to stop anti-inflammatory medications may have impaired results. Those with blood disorders affecting platelet function require careful evaluation.

Assessment Matters

The best outcomes begin with proper diagnosis. TMJ disorders have multiple potential causes, and understanding your specific situation allows for appropriate treatment selection. A thorough evaluation should precede any intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ PRP

How many PRP injections are typically needed for TMJ?

Most treatment protocols involve two to three injections spaced four to six weeks apart. This allows each treatment to build on the previous one as tissue regeneration progresses. Some patients achieve satisfactory results with fewer sessions, while complex cases may benefit from additional treatment.

How long do results from TMJ PRP treatment last?

Clinical studies show sustained benefits at 12 and 24 month follow-ups. Unlike cortisone injections that typically last three to six months, PRP works by repairing tissue rather than suppressing symptoms, leading to more durable improvement. Some patients benefit from occasional maintenance treatments.

Can PRP completely cure TMJ disorder?

PRP can significantly improve symptoms and joint function, but describing it as a cure oversimplifies the situation. TMJ disorders often involve multiple factors including muscle tension, posture and stress patterns. PRP addresses joint damage effectively, but managing contributing factors remains important for long-term success.

Is TMJ PRP better than cortisone injections?

Each has different applications. Cortisone provides faster pain relief but temporary benefits, and research suggests repeated use can weaken joint tissues. PRP takes longer to show results but promotes actual tissue repair. For patients seeking lasting improvement rather than quick symptomatic relief, PRP offers advantages.

What should I avoid after TMJ PRP treatment?

Avoid anti-inflammatory medications including ibuprofen for at least two weeks as they can interfere with the healing response. Avoid hard or chewy foods for several days. Avoid excessive jaw movements like wide yawning. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your situation.

Does insurance cover PRP for TMJ?

Most NHS and private insurance plans do not currently cover PRP as it is considered an advanced regenerative treatment. Some healthcare spending accounts may apply. Treatment costs vary by clinic and protocol used.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing TMJ treatment involves weighing options against your specific situation. PRP offers several advantages including evidence-based results, minimal invasiveness, use of your body's own healing factors and no synthetic materials. However, it requires investment in both cost and patience as healing develops over weeks.

The best approach begins with a proper evaluation. Understanding the nature and extent of your TMJ condition allows for realistic expectations and appropriate treatment selection.

At The Wellness in Marylebone, our doctors specialise in regenerative medicine and have extensive experience with PRP for joint conditions. We provide thorough assessments to determine whether PRP would benefit your specific TMJ presentation.

Have questions about whether PRP could help your jaw pain?

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We're happy to discuss your situation, answer questions about the treatment process and help you understand what to expect. There's no pressure and no obligation.

The Wellness,
10 Portman Square, Marylebone, London

Doctor-led regenerative medicine for hair, skin and joints