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Donald R. Tanenbaum, DDS MPH


Board-Certified Specialist in Orofacial Pain

Few parts of your body play as many roles in everyday life as your mouth, teeth, jaws, facial muscles, and other related structures. Daily acts of self-expression, such as talking, laughing, or smiling, use these structures to shape the sounds we make and help mold our appearance. They also work together to help us enjoy our favorite foods. As you can see, your face and jaw play a vital role in some of the most important aspects of your life.

If, however, you suffer from facial pain or problems with your temporomandibular joints (TMJs), your whole world can change. These painful conditions can disrupt nearly every aspect of your daily life. In addition to causing physical discomfort and facial pain, TMD can significantly alter your diet, lead to medication overuse, limit intimacy, and ultimately be responsible for emotional suffering and frustration.

That’s where Dr. Tanenbaum can help.

Dr. Tanenbaum is a board-certified specialist in Orofacial Pain. His extensive training and over three decades of experience make him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat facial pain, TMJ/TMD, muscle pain disorders, nerve pain disorders, tension headaches, snoring, and sleep apnea. Equally important, he treats every patient with the compassion, understanding, and personal attention they want and deserve.

Dr. Tanenbaum has helped improve the quality of life of thousands of people who suffered from painful facial conditions, and he can do the same for you.

History

Dr. Tanenbaum did his undergraduate work at The University of Pennsylvania where he majored in biology. While attending Columbia University School of Dental Medicine in New York City, Dr. Tanenbaum envisioned having a practice that focused on Temporomandibular Disorders (TMJ/TMD) and facial pain. His interest in understanding the ever-growing epidemic of chronic pain problems in the U.S. prompted him to obtain a master’s degree in public health during his four years in dental school. His master’s thesis focused on the Epidemiology of Facial Pain and gave him insights that began to shape his philosophy of care.

Over the last 38 years of practice, Dr. Tanenbaum has watched this highly specialized area of dentistry evolve and mature, prompting him to additionally focus on sleep disorders to address the concerns his patients brought to his attention relating to sleep apnea and insomnia.

His continual pursuit of education and teaching has enhanced his knowledge and ability to communicate with patients and other professionals with whom he must collaborate when they seek answers for complex pain problems.

Most importantly, from early in his career, Dr. Tanenbaum has placed importance on being an influencer to spread the word about TMJ and Orofacial Pain problems. As a result of this professional focus, he assumed leadership positions within the  American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP) and is a past president. He remains involved in AAOPs mentorship programs.

Working Closely with Referring Physicians

Treating facial pain, TMD, and sleep disorders effectively means taking into account all the aspects of your health. That’s why Dr. Tanenbaum takes a multidisciplinary approach to your care. He will work closely with other doctors and health care professionals through consultations and continual updates about your treatment and your progress. This collaboration is essential to provide you with the care that meets your unique needs.

Dr. Tanenbaum is trusted by medical and dental specialists in nearly every discipline to care for their patients with Orofacial Pain, TMD, and sleep disorders

Academic Appointments and Teaching Responsibilities

Northwell Health System, Department of Dental Medicine November 2010 – Present Section Head, Associate Attending Orofacial Pain/TMD Dental Sleep Medicine Section
Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine -Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery January 2004 – Present Course Director of Orofacial Pain/TMD Education to the Third-Year Dental Students
Northwell Health System Department of Dental Medicine May 1994 – Present Associate Attending and TMD/Orofacial Pain Lecturer to General Practice and Pediatric Dental Residents

Leadership Positions, Society Memberships & Awards

American Board of Orofacial Pain Diplomate
American Academy of Orofacial Pain Fellow Past President Mentor
New York County Dental Society Member Recipient of Henry Spenadel Award
American Dental Association Member
New York Academy of Dentistry Member
American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Member
New York Dental Study Club Member
American Headache Society Member
International Association for the Study of Pain Member

Recent Authorship & Publications

Doctor, Why Does My Face Still Hurt? (Book) Lead Author
The Orofacial Pain Newsletter (International) Regular Contributor
Masticatory/Temporomandibular Disorders: Practical Assessment & Care Concepts for the Otolaryngologist, Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America, Comprehensive Management of the Headache for the Otolaryngologist Lead Author
Unlocking the mysteries of TMJ and Orofacial pain Article contribution to NY Smiles Publication

Ongoing Commitment to Education & To Spread The Word About TMJ/Orofacial Pain Problems

Dr Tanenbaum continues to lecture at national Orofacial Pain conferences, medical grand rounds, dental societies, and study clubs. He has also provided yearly Orofacial Pain lectures for the New York County Dental Society’s online continuing education program.