Jakstat H1, Ahlers MO2, Lamparter U3, Danner H4, Soyka M4.
(1Prosthetic Dentistry and Dental Materials, 2Restorative Dentistry and Periodontology, Dental School, University of Hamburg, 3Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Medical School, University of Hamburg, 4Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Rheumaklinik Bad Bramstedt)
Interdisciplinary cooperation in diagnosis of functional disorders is often proclaimed, yet a systematic approach for general dentistry is still pending. Therefore, in the TMJ-Conference at the University of Hamburg's Dental School a concept for interdisciplinary cooperation with osteopathy-oriented orthopedics and behavioral sciences was chartered.
The concept is based on the fact that conference-type examination of patients is desirable, though rarely feasible. Instead, the general dental practitioner has to decide upon interdisciplinary treatment needs, based on personal judgment. To permit more unbyast evaluation, tools for routine screening tests and documentation were developed. A modified questionnaire concerning dental history provides detailed information on symptoms as well as on previous treatments. A second questionnaire modified from HOLMES and RAHE permits the evaluation of personal stress. A third form modified from SCHULTE monitors and records the circadian level of discomfort or pain for up to six weeks. All together these tools help the dentist to decide if psychological counsel should be obtained. For the initial examination of posture and function of the cervical spine orthopedic tests are included in the clinical dental examination. In case of positive findings simultaneous dental and orthopedic treatment is employed. The current interdisciplinary concept for communication and treatment shall be presented.