This Japanese proverb succinctly identifies the role of integration in health care.
Members of ICCMO recognize the essential role for some of our patients that may be required by other healthcare providers through diagnostic and possibly therapeutic care. Recognizing this synergy and need for shared knowledge, the College created Associate Membership for those providers who do not hold DDS, DMD, MD, DO or PhD degrees. Throughout the world ICCMO Sections invite as Associate Members healthcare providers in the field of physical therapy, massage therapy, myofunctional therapy, chiropractic therapy as well as nurses and dental laboratory technicians.
TMD is often referred to as the "great imposter" because it consists of multiple signs and symptoms that can present in any combination and many degrees of severity and chronicity. The experienced neuromuscular dentist can scientifically test, diagnose and treat the jaw position and bite related problems central to TMD. However, the experienced dental practitioner also recognizes the necessity to work as a team with other health care professionals to address other pathologies that overlay the bite problem. Postural musculo-skeletal problems at any level of the body, myofascial trigger points, allergies, airway obstruction, sleep disorders, compromised immune system, physical and mental stress require expert and specialized health care providers.
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMJ or TMD) are multifaceted and can be multi-causal. Members of the International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics recognize the role we as dentists play in providing effective therapy for patients suffering from the various manifestations of temporomandibular disorders through science based conservative measures.
The masticatory system consists of the teeth and their supporting structures in the mandible and maxilla, the bilateral temporomandibular joints, the masticatory musculature and their associated neural system. This most complex anatomical and functional area, which is essential in nutrition, respiration and communication is totally interrelated with other body parts and systems. Dysfunction in the stomathognathic system, as it is also called, can cause descending dysfunction in structures and systems below the jaw beginning in the cervical spine as well as above in the central nervous system. Conversely, musculoskeletal dysfunction in the lower parts of the body extending through the cervical spine and from above can affect dysfunction in the craniomandibular system. This complex interrelationship should be recognized by health care providers in various disciplines as it often presents in patients who seek our care.
Collaborative collateral or sequential care is frequently necessary to obtain optimal therapeutic results for our patients. We welcome you to read other parts of this website in order to obtain additional information about our approach to the management of patients with TMD. We invite you to attend our scientific meetings and read our publications.
