(STATEN ISLAND) RCDS September 2026 General Membership Meeting | TMJ Disorders: Diagnosis, Referral and Surgical Treatment Options

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Venue:
Max's Es-Ca
1559 Richmond Road
Staten Island, NY 10304
(718) 980-5006


Essayist: Monika Patel, D.D.S.
Assistant Professor, Zucker School of Medicine, Hofstra University

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders represent a complex group of conditions that can significantly affect a patient's comfort, function and quality of life. While many cases can be managed conservatively, a subset of patients require surgical intervention to restore joint function and relieve pain. This lecture is designed to provide general dentists with a comprehensive understanding of the surgical management of TMJ disorders and the role of the restorative team in diagnosis, referral and postoperative care. 

Through an evidence-based and case-driven approach, Dr. Monika Patel will review the spectrum of TMJ pathology, from internal derangements and degenerative joint disease to ankylosis and developmental abnormalities. Participants will gain insight into the indications and treatment planning considerations for arthrocentesis, arthroscopy and open joint surgery, as well as emerging surgical techniques and adjunctive therapies. Upon successful completion of this lecture, the attendee will learn: 

• The etiology and pathophysiology of TMJ disorders and how they relate to functional and structural abnormalities.
• How to evaluate and diagnose TMJ disorders using a combination of clinical findings and imaging modalities.
• How to identify which patients may benefit from surgical versus non-surgical management.
• Postoperative management strategies, potential complications, and how to coordinate care with restorative providers for optimal functional rehabilitation.

MCEU - 1 HOUR
Member Rate: $45

MONIKA PATEL, D.D.S. is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon based in New York. She completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at New York University College of Dentistry and went on to complete extensive surgical training at Northwell Health Long Island Jewish Medical Center, where she developed a particular interest in orthognathic surgery, facial trauma and surgical treatment of TMJ disorders. She is an assistant professor at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra University. Dr. Patel also works in private practice on Staten Island, collaborating closely with general dentists and orthodontists to streamline surgical planning and optimize patient outcomes.