Pioneer in TMJ Management: How Dr. Lolita Flores-Fandialan revolutionized dental care in the Philippines
The management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) in the Philippines traces its roots to the personal experience of Dr. Lolita Flores-Fandialan in the 1980s. Struggling with severe low back pain and dizziness, Dr. Fandialan was initially advised to undergo surgery. However, she discovered a journal that linked TMJ issues to her symptoms. Opting to correct her bite, also known as occlusion, and address her temporomandibular joint instead of surgery, she successfully recovered. This pivotal experience propelled her to delve deeper into TMJ and cranio-cervical disorders, becoming a trailblazer in this field in the Philippines.
Who is Dr. Lolita Flores-Fandialan?
Dr. Lolita Flores-Fandialan earned her dental degree from the University of the East College of Dentistry in 1970. She then pursued postgraduate studies in oral surgery at U.P PGH in 1971 and studied Orthodontics under Dr. Luz Macapanpan at U.P Los Baños. From 1977 to 1988, she practiced the Lightwire Begg’s technique.
Her international education includes attending the first Singapore International Orthodontic Congress in 1985 and the American Orthodontic Congress in Dallas, Texas in 1986. Dr. Fandialan further specialized in TMJ dysfunction through Basic and Advanced courses under Dr. Harold Gelb from New York in 1988 and 1990. She also studied under Dr. John Witzig, an orthodontic clinician known for teaching European orthodontics in the United States.
Dr. Fandialan’s quest for knowledge took her to various global destinations, including Singapore, South Korea, Hong Kong, Australia, Texas, and Washington D.C., for advanced courses in orthopedics, orthodontics, and TMJ. She completed postgraduate studies at the TMJ Institute of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 1996, she published her first book detailing the rationale behind TMJ Disorder and her extensive clinical experience.
In 1998, she participated in a chirodontic course in Sydney, Australia. Dr. Fandialan is the founder of the Philippine Chapter of the Asian American Association of Functional Orthodontic and TMJ. She serves as a resource speaker for the Philippine Dental Association, addressing topics such as TMD, craniomandibular disorders related to headaches, and the connection of TMD to neck, shoulder, and back pain.
Her contributions to dental literature include articles in publications like Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, and Men’s Health Magazine. Currently, Dr. Fandialan continues to mentor over 800 dentists through her teaching at Hop Inn Alabang.
Dentists interested in the CranioMandibular TMD Course can follow her Facebook page for inquiries at https://tinyurl.com/mwr748xm.
Dr. Jeffrey Montoya Sumague, DMD
Dr. Jeffrey Montoya Sumague, DMD, FPFA, a distinguished Doctor of Dental Medicine, combines clinical excellence with a passion for community engagement. A graduate of Centro Escolar University in Manila, Dr. Sumague specializes in Orthodontics, Cosmetic Dentistry, and Craniocervical Craniosacral TMJ. His leadership is evident through his role as past President of the Philippine Dental Association San Pablo City Chapter and as a dedicated member of JCI 7 Lakes.
Beyond his dental practice, Dr. Sumague is a multifaceted individual. As a Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy and a Professor at Centro Escolar University, he remains committed to advancing the field of dentistry. His ability to connect with audiences is showcased through his work as a social media influencer, radio DJ/anchor for J101.5 FM Big Radio, and former correspondent for Isyu Balita. He now contributes to Tutubi News Magazine, sharing his diverse perspectives with a wider audience.
