April General Membership Meeting

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a frequent source of orofacial pain, altered occlusion, and functional limitations in dental patients. Yet many signs and symptoms arise from musculoskeletal contributors outside the dentition. This evidence-informed course bridges the gap between dentistry and physical therapy to improve recognition, diagnosis, and clinical management of TMD in real-world practice.

Co-taught by TMD specialist Melissa Stack, PT and manual physical therapist Sarah Eads, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT, the session explores how head-on-neck alignment, mandibular mechanics, parafunctional behaviors, and appliance design influence occlusal loading, symptom severity, and long-term outcomes. Focus is placed on practical strategies that dentists and team members can implement immediately—including appliance calibration concepts, postural retraining strategies, upper cervical manual therapy considerations, and patient education frameworks that reduce recurrence and improve function.

Attendees will leave with actionable pearls for multidisciplinary TMD management and clear guidelines for when physical therapy collaboration is indicated. Designed for dentists, hygienists, assistants, and dental students seeking a deeper understanding of TMD beyond the teeth.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher The San Antonio District Dental Society