TMJ is not the flu. It doesn't come and go. If you have it, you have it forever. Sometimes, it won't bother you and other times it will flare up terribly -- like arthritis or some other joint disorder. If you have terrible headaches, it's probably the TMJ flaring up again. Obviously, headaches can be signs of other problems, too. If you are unsure, go to the doc. I have had ear-affect pain, headaches, sinus pain on one side. Sometimes I cannot open my mouth enough to eat a sandwich, or put down enough pressure to chew. You may need a bite splint. Even if you just wear it at night, it will realign things at night without medication. Good luck. Mine is terrible right now, so I literally feel your pain.
2006-07-13 12:57:41
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answer #1
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answered by Jen 1
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I had TMJ and even was fit with an expensive mouth guard that I was supposed to wear at night. (Also not covered by my dental insurance). I would always wake up in a complete panic like I was choking and have to pull it out ASAP even if it seemed like I was going to break some teeth off in the process. First I used two Nikken magnets taped to the ends of a cheap set of head phones from a radio while I did house cleaning at home. Then I got a Nikken pillow. (Which cost less than the mouth guard I might add). When I was sleeping on one side the other side of my neck felt much worse by comparison so I would turn over.
Not only has the use of the pillow gotten rid of all my TMJ symptoms, it also got rid of the cracking noise in my neck when I turn my neck reflecting increased mobility and less stress on my cervical spine. Its been years since I have had any problems with my TMJ. I contribute nightly use of the pillow to this. (Also I don't chew gum.)
2006-07-11 02:20:15
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answer #2
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answered by job_buster 2
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my tmj got so bad that if i yawn or open my mouth too wide it would lock open and then i would have to pop it back in place which hurts like a son of a *****. i finally said something to my dentist and he made me a mouth guard that i wear to bed at night. if you have dental insurance it will cover most of it. the night guard really helps me. when my jaw does lock open after i get it back i take motrin to help with any swelling that might occur.
i have notice that it gets worse when i am under a lot of stress. lately it has been fine, but the night guard has changed a lot. it also stops you from grinding your teeth which is the cause of the problem.
2006-07-10 21:46:48
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answer #3
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answered by awolves74 2
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I use to have TMJ. After my divorce it went away. This is true. Maybe you need to dump on some one.
Till tomorrow, try gently massaging your jaw and temples, I used pressure point massage. Like acupuncture with no needles. There are some great books out for this type of massage.
2006-07-10 20:58:51
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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Yes, there is a very simple solution: a bite-guard! It's soft plastic and keeps you from being able to grind your teeth at night when asleep (which will also wear down your teeth!). Finally, I found one that came with a tooth whitening kit. Your dentist might know where to get one....but it was cheaper to buy the kit.
This is the non-toxic, non-drug solution with no side-effects. They can ususally be cut with a scissors so you can custom fit it for comfort..... Good luck & good health!
2006-07-10 21:14:24
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answer #5
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answered by bjoybead 2
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Let your mouth hang slightly open. Push the heel of each palm into the joint of your jaw, and drag your hands down your jawbone to your chin, using medium pressure. It helps relax it. Also, heating pads are wonderful.
2006-07-10 21:05:50
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answer #6
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answered by Amy Y 1
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I used a mouth guard, available at any sporting goods store for about $3. Ya can't beat that!
2006-07-10 21:48:00
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answer #7
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answered by puz 3
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in my case i took aleve to help my head akes and the sore mussels in my jaw and i would take tylenol pm at night to help me relax and not have pain hope this helps you
2006-07-10 21:24:16
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answer #8
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answered by k c 1
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