Dr. Sharan Naidoo
Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgeon
Suite 114, Mediclinic Midstream,
Cnr Midstream Drive & Midstream Hill Boulevard,
Midstream, 1692
Phone Number: 012 652 9466
https://www.docnaidoo.co.za/
The South African Society of Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgeons (SASMFOS) hosted its highly anticipated Annual Congress from 23–27 September 2025 at the prestigious Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West. The event brought together specialists, and professionals in the field of Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgery to share knowledge, explore innovations, and discuss the latest advancements in patient care.
This year’s congress centred around the theme of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders and Orofacial Pain, offering delegates an in-depth look at evolving treatment approaches and groundbreaking research shaping the future of the field. Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Sharan Naidoo (BChD, MBChB, MChD, FCMFOS, FIBCSOMS), a Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgeon at Cure Day Hospitals Midstream.
Dr. Sharan Naidoo’s presentation focussed on Bruxism and aimed to raise awareness among clinicians about the far-reaching consequences of untreated bruxism and the importance of early intervention in protecting both oral and overall health.
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often occurring during sleep. While it may seem harmless at first, it can have serious consequences for both oral and overall health, particularly through its impact on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its association with temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Excessive grinding places significant strain on the TMJ, which can lead to:
- Disc displacement
- Cartilage erosion
- Joint inflammation
These complications often manifest as pain, stiffness, and limited jaw movement.
Beyond the joint, bruxism contributes to dental wear, tooth fractures, and periodontal problems. Its effects can extend even further, causing chronic headaches, sleep disturbances, and are often linked to psychological stress and sleep apnoea. Studies have shown a strong connection between bruxism and joint dysfunction in patients with TMD.
Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach that may include:
- The use of occlusal splints
- Behavioural therapy to address contributing stress factors
- Physiotherapy to support joint and muscle function
Cure Day Hospitals proudly sponsored a networking opportunity and expressed their continued commitment to supporting excellence in Maxillo-Facial and Oral surgical education and healthcare innovation. The SASMFOS Annual Congress 2025 once again demonstrated the power of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and passion for advancing oral and Maxillo-Facial surgery in South Africa.
