The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Community Network aims to advance understanding and treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders through collaborative research, education, and advocacy.

TMJ Community Network Goals:

  1. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and patients from diverse backgrounds such as dentistry, orthopedics, bioengineering, and regenerative medicine.
  2. Knowledge Exchange:  Facilitate the sharing of scientific discoveries, best practices, and clinical insights related to TMJ disorders to improve patient outcomes.
  3. Innovation and Translation: Support innovative research initiatives that translate basic science discoveries into clinical applications for TMJ disorder diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
  4. Education and Training: Provide educational resources and training opportunities for researchers and healthcare professionals to enhance their expertise in TMJ research and clinical care.
  5. Patient Advocacy: Advocate for patient-centered research and policies that promote better access to effective TMJ treatments and support patient well-being. Orthopaedic researchers should be exposed to TMJ for several reasons: a) Similarities in Mechanisms: TMJ disorders share pathophysiological mechanisms with other musculoskeletal conditions studied in orthopaedics, such as joint inflammation, cartilage degradation, and biomechanical abnormalities. b) Cross-disciplinary Insights:  Exposure to TMJ research can provide orthopaedic researchers with new perspectives, tools, and techniques that can be applied to their own research areas, leading to cross-disciplinary innovations. c) Clinical Relevance:  Many patients with TMJ disorders also experience orthopedic issues, highlighting the interconnectedness of these fields and the importance of collaboration in improving overall patient care. d) Holistic Approach: Understanding TMJ disorders alongside orthopedic conditions promotes a holistic approach to musculoskeletal health, fostering comprehensive treatment strategies and better outcomes for patients.

By integrating TMJ research into the orthopaedic community, we can catalyze advancements in both fields and ultimately improve the quality of care for individuals with musculoskeletal disorders.

Community Networks give ORS members of all different backgrounds, career levels, and experiences a way to connect with each other. Community Networks are self-identified, organically established communities offering opportunities for members to connect with each other, share experiences, and form life-long friendships and collaborations.

Interested in creating your own network? Learn more.