My TMJ has gotten to the point where I am in pain 24/7. I am taking maximum doses of Vicodin and Voltaren (a prescription NSAID), as well as having regular acupuncture, all with very short-lasting results. I am following all the standard suggestions: meds, hot/cold packs, relaxation techniques... I cannot even eat anything that requires chewing! I also do have a splint, though I do not have bruxism, and am worried about it "ruining" my bite.
I have mandibular prognathism -- an elongated lower jaw -- resulting in an underbite that was fixed with orthodontia from age 8-13 (I'm currently 25). I have also been diagnosed with slipped disks in both TMJ joints. Despite these facts, I cannot find an Oral & Maxillofacial surgeon who will even REVIEW my case before requiring me to have spent months at a pain clinic, working on all the things that I have already done on my own! I am in pain NOW (and missing work) and I just don't know what to do...
ANY suggestions??
2007-10-26 12:22:46 · 2 answers · asked by nashgirl21 5 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Pain & Pain Management
Try a neuromuscular massage
2007-10-26 12:31:01 · answer #1 · answered by cadalac 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
THE ONLY CURE FOR TMJ IS TO KEEP YOU FROM BITING AT NIGHT WHILE YOU SLEEP.
A NIGHT GUARD WILL NOT DO THIS
WHY NOT?
IT ISN'T MADE FOR THIS.
SO, WHAT GOOD IS IT?
IT KEEPS YOU FROM CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE TEETH WHILE YOU STILL GRIND.
SO WHAT WILL STOP THE GRINDING AND TMJ SYPTOMS?
AN N.T.I. BRUXISM APPLIANCE.
SEE THE LINKS BELOW:
2007-10-26 12:37:39 · answer #2 · answered by Dr. Albert, DDS, (USA) 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋