Expert Witness Blog
In What to Look for in a TMJ or Orofacial/Craniofacial Pain Expert, dental expert witness Dr. John Van der Werff
Choosing an expert witness for TMJ disorders, or TMD (temporomandibular disorders), as it is officially titled, can be confusing because many medical practitioners try to treat these complex problems. So what should you look for in a TMJ expert?
The temporomandibular joint can be affected by misaligned teeth and the bite, therefore, a dentist makes the best expert witness when evaluating TMJ disorders. The American Dental Association does not currently recognize treatment of TMD as a specialty. Specialty training in a field such as oral surgery, orthodontics, and prosthodontics does not necessarily translate into specialty training in TMJ. Instead, look for a dentist who has extensive post-graduate training in TMD and orofacial/craniofacial pain. There are a number of private and university-based programs and courses available.