Time to Reconsider Management of the Temporomandibular Joint in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Abstract

The temporomandibular joints are often affected by juvenile idiopathic arthritis, but few evidence-based management strategies exist. Intra-articular steroid injection (IASI) is a common intervention and is associated with pain reduction and improved mandibular function. Emerging evidence, however, suggests that IASI may actually impair rather than improve mandibular growth. It is therefore time to reconsider this practice.