Good Atlanta TMJ Docs? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

TMJ_Veteran · 04-11-2006, 10:37 AM

Hi

I am new to this board, but not new to TMJ. I am one of the unfortunate people who received a VITEK TMJ implant back in the early 80's. The FDA recalled the implant - I had the explant in '91 - and am so sick of going to doctors that don't understand my situation.

anyone know of a good tmj doc in the atlanta area? The one's I have gone to want to treat me as though I am a new tmj patient. I am far beyond all the tmj 101 procedures. I am in constant pain and really need to see someone who understands the aftermath of the vitek disaster.

thanks much for any advice you can give!

navymid · 04-11-2006, 11:32 AM

I am from the Atlanta area but an currently stationed in MD, but I saw a doctor in Athens that is fanatastic. I am not sure how far from Athens you are, but it is definately worth the drive to see this guy. His name is Stephen Fennell and he is an oral surgeon but has extensive training in the TMJ. He is very knowledgable and knew exactly what I was going throuh. I got the impression that he has TMJ because of how so well he knew what I was going through. He also gave me some great success stories from some of his patients. I would highly reccommend him. Also, he has been treating patients with TMJ problems for over 20 years, so I am sure he knows about your situation. I can give you more information if you'd like...

Also, I have never seen any doctors at Emory, but I know they have a great reputation. You might want to look into them also.

But, I would definately see Dr. Fennell if possible. He's a super nice guy and very knowledgable as I mentioned earlier... good luck!

kayte04 · 04-12-2006, 06:55 AM

This dr isn't in Atlanta, and would be quite a trip for you, but he deals daily with patients with failed TMJ surgeries. His name is Mark Piper, in St. Petersburg, FL (just outside Tampa). I had had 3 surgeries before seeing him and could no longer function because of the pain - literally, I just layed on the couch and cried. He did #4 and it should have worked, but I was T-boned in a car wreck less than 3 months after the surgery. 2 years later I had to have the same thing re-done, unfortunately. The last one was 18 months ago and I am pain free, even after I was rear-ended at the 9 month post-op mark. Goodluck!