Collaborative Care for TMJ Disorders

Teams of different medical professionals often work together to ensure comprehensive treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs). This collaborative approach may include a variety of healthcare providers, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs), physical therapists and general dentists.

What is an OMS’s Role in Managing TMD?

OMS’s specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the jaw, face and mouth. An OMS’s role in the management of TMD can include:

• Diagnosis: An OMS will assess a patient’s TMD symptoms – such as pain, headaches and changes in bite – and perform a thorough examination. In some cases, they may use imaging (such as an MRI) to identify the underlying cause of the TMD.
• Treatment plan: The OMS will create a customized treatment plan based on the patient’s severity and type of TMD. Treatments may be non-invasive, such as exercises and splints (usually made by a dentist), or more invasive procedures such as arthroscopy, open joint procedures and even total joint replacement.
• Surgical intervention: If non-invasive treatments do not improve symptoms, the OMS may recommend surgery to correct the structural problem that causes TMD symptoms.

How Can Physical Therapists Help?

Some physical therapists, also known as physiotherapists, specialize in TMD and contribute to the comprehensive care of patients with TMD. Their duties can include:

• Evaluation: Physical therapists can evaluate people with temporomandibular disorders, examining jaw movement, posture and muscle function to identify imbalances or malfunctions.
• Exercise prescription: Based on the evaluation, a physical therapist can prescribe specific exercises and stretches to improve jaw mobility, strengthen muscles and improve overall function.
• Manual therapy: Physical therapists may use techniques such as manual manipulation, massage or mobilization to treat muscle tightness, joint stiffness or other physical disorders associated with TMD.
• Education and self-management: Physical therapists can educate individuals about TMD, correct posture and teach relaxation techniques and strategies to manage pain and stress. 

Benefits of Collaboration

By working together, an OMS and a physical therapist can create a comprehensive plan for a patient with TMD. Benefits of the collaboration may include:

• Comprehensive assessment: Both specialists bring a unique perspective to the assessment process and a complete understanding of TMD.
• Tailored treatment plan: With input from multiple disciplines, treatment plans can be tailored to meet a patient’s specific needs and preferences. 
• Multimodal approach: Combining surgical options with non-invasive procedures, such as exercises and splints, allows for a comprehensive and targeted approach to treating TMD.
• Holistic Care: Co-treatment recognizes the multifactorial nature of TMD and can address both structural and functional aspects of the condition.

If you have concerns about TMD, consult an OMS who can assess your condition and suggest the appropriate treatment plan.