Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) Therpay

New, Noninvasive Approach for Successfully Treating Pain and Inflammation of TMJ Disorders

A topical gel containing 18% potassium complex, 10% dimethylisosorbide, and 72% aqueous hydroxyethyl cellulose gel was applied and gently rubbed onto the facial skin over the painful TMJ, muscles of mastication, and myofacial area. Complete pain relief occurred in 45 of 54 patients in this study within 5 minutes of the first application of the gel, and in all 54 patients after the third day of twice daily application of the treatment gel.

J Oral Implantol. 2007;33(6):365-70.
A new, noninvasive approach for successfully treating the pain and inflammation of TMJ disorders.
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Transdermal application of NSAIDs such as ketoprofen results in significantly higher tissue levels beneath the site of application than are achieved with oral administration. Additionally, side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation are avoided.

The following article concludes: “Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are effective in relieving pain in acute and chronic conditions.”

BMJ. 1998 Jan 31;316(7128):333-8
Quantitative systematic review of topically applied non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Free full text article available at bmj.com: http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/316/7128/333


The following article reports “The systemic concentrations of ketoprofen have also been found to be 100 fold lower compared to tissue concentrations below the application… Topically applied ketoprofen thus provides high local concentration below the site of application but lower systemic exposure.”

Pharm Res. 1996 Jan;13(1):168-72
Percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen from different anatomical sites in man.
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Iontophoretic delivery of dexamethasone and lidocaine may be effective in improving mandibular function in patients with temporo-mandibular disorders who have concurrent temporo-mandibular joint capsulitis and disc displacement without reduction.

J Orofac Pain 1996 Spring;10(2):157-65
Temporomandibular joint iontophoresis: a double-blind randomized clinical trial.
Click here to access the PubMed abstract of this article.