James R. Fricton, Principal Investigator

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research’s Implant Registry and Repository

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJs) are common disorders causing facial pain, headaches, and clicking, locking, and diminished functioning in the jaw. In some cases, there is degeneration of the temporomandibular joint structure (bone and articular cartilage) leading to pain, dysfunction, and destructive changes in the joint. TMJ implants have been used with surgery to treat these conditions. Further research is needed to explain the diverse outcomes associated with TMJ patients and to discover what characteristics of TMJ implants are best tolerated and most successful in these patients.

This project will develop a nationally recognized research registry and repository that is designed to collect clinical information and biological specimens on patients with TMJ disorders throughout the United States. This will stimulate more research in TMJ disorders and advance the understanding and success of treatment of patients with this painful condition.