TMJ Prolotherapy
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are complex and dynamic synovial orthopedic hinges containing bone, cartilage, ligaments, blood vessels and nerves. In perfect health, the cartilagenous disc rests tightly atop the condylar head of the mandible via intact ligamentous structures contained within a joint capsule. Rather commonly, traumatic damage to the ligaments can create dysfunction within the joints. In the scientific literature, there exists a plethora papers supporting the usage of prolotherapy and its effectiveness to treat TMJ pathology. Ideally, MRI and CBCT diagnostic imaging precedes the decision to initiate this treatment. At Dr. Nick's, we regularly order and interpret TMJ MRI and CBCT prior to initiating TMJ prolotherapy injections using concentrated platelet rich fibrin (PRF) combined with procaine, a local anesthetic. Med grade ozone gas is also introduced into the joints being treated when our practice initiates prolotherapy. Though not a cure-all, TMJ prolotherapy can provide many patients with TMJ pathology relief.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Nick Yiannios
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Dr. Nick Yiannios was the firstborn of a Greek immigrant who traveled to the U.S. to seek his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. Sharing his father’s passion for the arts and sciences, after high school, Nick Yiannios traveled to Texas seeking an education in microbiology, that branch of science that deals with microorganisms. After obtaining his B.S. in microbiology from Texas A&M University, his passions naturally led him into the dental profession. In 1993, Dr. Nick Yiannios graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio ...