Standalone Intra-Articular Injections for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Overview of Meta-Analytic Evidence

Background/Objectives: Intra-articular injections are used for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) resistant to conservative treatment. However, many reviews assess injectable agents combined with arthrocentesis or other co-interventions, limiting interpretation of their standalone effects. This overview aimed to summarize meta-analytic evidence on standalone intra-articular injections for temporomandibular joint disorders. Methods: MEDLINE, BASE, and Europe PMC were searched on 29 March 2026. Systematic reviews with quantitative meta-analyses evaluating standalone intra-articular TMJ injections were included. Data regarding injectable substances, clinical indications, and outcome domains were extracted and synthesized descriptively. Results: Three systematic reviews with meta-analyses were included. The evidence addressed platelet-rich plasma, corticosteroids, sodium hyaluronate, and physiological saline. Reported indications included degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis, internal derangement, and arthritis. All included agents were reported to be associated with pain reduction. Conclusions: Meta-analytic evidence on standalone intra-articular injections for TMDs remains limited and heterogeneous. Available data suggest potential benefits, mainly for pain reduction, but do not establish clear superiority of any agent. The potential therapeutic activity of physiological saline should be considered when designing future injection trials.