Why Women's Jaw Pain Has Been Overlooked for Far Too Long
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As a dentist and physical therapist, I've seen firsthand the devastating impact that temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) can have on women's lives. For too long, this debilitating condition has been overlooked, misunderstood, and dismissed by the medical community. But I'm on a mission to change that. My passion for TMD advocacy was ignited during my dual training in dentistry and physical therapy. I saw the disconnect between these two fields - dentists focused solely on the teeth and bite, while physical therapists often overlooked the crucial role of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in overall musculoskeletal health. This disconnect was leaving patients frustrated, in pain, and without the comprehensive care they desperately needed.
The TMD Collective
I knew I had to do something. That's why I founded TMD Collective®, a platform dedicated to educating healthcare providers and empowering patients to take control of their TMD journey. Through my work, I've had the privilege of connecting with women across the country who have shared their stories of struggle, resilience, and the urgent need for change.
How TMD Impacts Women
One of the most heartbreaking aspects of TMD is the way it disproportionately affects women. Studies show that up to 90% of TMD patients are female, and the reasons for this gender disparity are complex. Hormonal factors, connective tissue laxity, and even the way women's jaws develop can all contribute to an increased risk of TMD. But the real tragedy is how often these women are dismissed, told their pain is "all in their head," or subjected to ineffective, one-size-fits-all treatments.I'll never forget the 15-year-old patient I saw whose TM joints were already severely damaged, with her discs completely locked out of position. This young girl was facing a lifetime of pain and dysfunction, all because her condition had gone undiagnosed and untreated. Her story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for early intervention and a proactive approach to TMD.
My Passion for Education
That's why I'm so passionate about educating parents, teachers, and healthcare providers to recognize the early warning signs of TMD in young girls. Facial asymmetry, a recessed lower jaw, clicking or popping noises - these are all red flags that something may be amiss with the TMJs. And yet, so often, these signs are overlooked or dismissed as "normal." But I'm here to tell you that TMD is anything but normal. It's a complex, multifaceted condition that requires a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment. That's why I work tirelessly to bridge the gap between dentistry, physical therapy, and other medical specialties. By fostering collaboration and open communication, we can ensure that patients receive the tailored, evidence-based care they deserve.
Tools for TMD
One of the most powerful tools in our arsenal is advanced imaging, such as cone beam CT and MRI. These technologies allow us to visualize the intricate structures of the TMJs, identifying issues with the bones, discs, and soft tissues that may be contributing to a patient's symptoms. Armed with this information, we can then develop a targeted treatment plan that addresses the root cause of the problem, rather than just masking the symptoms. Of course, not every patient will require surgery or other invasive interventions. In fact, I believe that a conservative, non-surgical approach should almost always be the first line of defense. That's where my background in physical therapy comes in handy. By incorporating techniques like manual therapy, postural re-education, and therapeutic exercises, we can often help patients manage their TMD symptoms without the need for risky procedures. But make no mistake - I'm not afraid to advocate for surgical options when necessary. I've seen the life-changing impact that skilled TMJ surgeons can have, and I'm committed to educating more providers in this specialized field. After all, every patient deserves access to the full spectrum of care, tailored to their unique needs and goals.
“The Time For Change is Now”
My mission with TMD Collective is to be a catalyst for that change. I want to empower patients to advocate for themselves, to seek out providers who will listen to their stories and develop personalized treatment plans. And I want to inspire healthcare professionals - whether you're a dentist, physical therapist, or specialist in another field - to break down the silos, share knowledge, and work together for the greater good. Because when we put the needs of our patients first, there's no limit to what we can achieve. The time for change is now, and I'm honored to have you join me on this journey. You see, I firmly believe that when we come together as a healthcare community, magic happens. We have a unique perspective, a deep well of empathy, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in our patients' lives. By fostering collaboration and open communication across disciplines, we can harness our collective power and channel it into tangible change.
