Temporomandibular disorder s (TMD) are not uncommon and have various symptoms. Patients often complain of ear pain, headache and limited jaw movement. Research has shown that patients complain of these same symptoms after a recent car accident or a motor-vehicle collision. Whiplash-associated disorders and TMD symptoms should be examined for and oral health care providers should be aware of the relationship between these symptoms. Dr. Stan Farrell, who is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain and is one of the best-qualified doctors in the country for treating head pain, treats such cases at his AZ-TMJ practice, located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Farrell focuses on non-surgical treatment methods that include splint therapy, trigger point injections and physical therapy modalities. If you have experienced face pain, neck pain, headaches, or whiplash-associated pain, schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Farrell at 480-945-3629. www.headpaininstitute.com
Epstein JB, Klasser GD.
Abstract: Recent research has shown that temporomandibular symptoms may be associated with or occur independently of whiplash-associated disorders related to motor-vehicle collisions. A PubMed/Medline search was conducted using the terms “temporomandibular disorders,” “orofacial pain,” “temporomandibular joint,” “whiplash,” and “whiplash-associated disorders and motor-vehicle accidents and motor-vehicle collisions” for the years 1995 to 2009. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical studies were included if they addressed temporomandibular disorders, whiplash epidemiology, diagnosis, and prognosis. References in the selected articles were also reviewed (including those prior to 1995) if the articles specifically addressed the topic. An evidence base was established for general outcomes using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence. Temporomandibular symptoms may develop following motor-vehicle collisions and be more complex, representing a component of a symptom cluster of potentially regional and widespread pain impacted by psychosocial factors. Oral health care providers must be aware of the relationship between temporomandibular symptoms, whiplash-associated disorders, and trauma and the more complex nature of the symptoms for appropriate diagnosis and management.
