Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are described as a set of related pathologic changes that produce musculoskeletal symptoms in the jaw such as pain associated with jaw function, limited range of mandibular motion, masticatory muscle and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tenderness and TMJ sounds.

The clinic uses several basic models of treatment for TMDs.  The most common approach is the combination of a Pharmacologic Model and a Physical Medicine Model.  The Pharmacologic Model includes treatment mainly with no steroidal anti-inflammatory and / or muscle relaxant medications and occasionally steroid injections.  Physical therapy is partly done at home by the patient, mainly jaw tongue posture exercises and hinge exercises.  Our team's physical therapist gives treatment for range of motion, coordination and stretching procedures.

Physical Therapy is also given to patients after major Maxillofacial surgeries such as Orthognatic surgery, Oncologic resection or Reconstruction surgery, and after Maxillofacial Trauma surgery.

Occlusal appliances are also a component of Physical Therapy and are constructed and adjusted with the cooperation of our in house Dental Laboratory.

Other models of therapy which are used in the clinic include Arthrocentesis (TMJ Lavage) and Open Joint surgery.  The Open Joint surgery is performed for TMDs and for tumor resection or other pathologic conditions in which surgical intervention is needed.

Every year about 400 patients are treated in the clinic.