CherylLynn24
06-15-2003, 03:05 AM
I hope everyone has a good day!
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 06-15-2003).]
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 06-15-2003).]
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
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Cymy Sue
06-15-2003, 05:55 AM
Cheryl,
I couldn't be happier for you & Mike.
I am always very impressed when a Care Provider consults with others in regard to treatment.
My Dentist regularly consults with other Dental Groups to compare what they are doing with patients in similiar conditions.
This (to me) shows a great deal of humility, caring and a desire to truly help the patient.
We've all been victims of too much arrogance...... Doctors who believe they know everything and their way is the only way. With this attitude, if the treatment doesn't work, it's the patients fault.
We are living with a disorder;
Which has no set standard of treatment, even theories on surgical procedures vary widely.
An infinite number of theories on Splint Therapy.
No long term Case History Compilations for providers to use as reference.
Very few long term Contolled Studies of "Before & After's" on different therapies used.
No reliable sources of successes & failures.
The National Health Inst. is trying to remedy this. It will take time.
In the 26 years I have lived in this world of TMJD, there has been very little progress.
There are a few Dentists, TMJ Specialists, etc., who have realized that "WE" have to have help. "WE" can't wait any longer.
These Professionals who combine their knowledge, consult and share experiences with patient responses to different treatments, (successes & failures) are those who are beginning to understand the complexities of the disease and also have realized that each patient is different.
Assembly Line Treatment for TMJD is obsolete and hopefully will soon be recognized as such.
We may all fall under the category of TMJD.
We are all very different and experience different symtoms & problems. We know what works wonders for one, may cause damage to another.
I believe "TMJD Disorder or Disease" is slowly being recognized as a very unique, complicated, and for the most part, a totally misunderstood problem in the Dental and Medical Professions.
My personal opinion is that the "TIME" involved to treat each person individually has been the main factor in failed treatments and treatments that have caused further problems or damage.
I believe we are on the verge of seeing a New Breed (so to speak) of Professionals who will be willing to take the "TIME" to learn about the disease and more importantly, take the "TIME" to treat appropriately.
I believe you have found one of these "Professionals" (as I have) and my hopes, as always, are for all to find the "One" who will help them.
Cymy Sue
I couldn't be happier for you & Mike.
I am always very impressed when a Care Provider consults with others in regard to treatment.
My Dentist regularly consults with other Dental Groups to compare what they are doing with patients in similiar conditions.
This (to me) shows a great deal of humility, caring and a desire to truly help the patient.
We've all been victims of too much arrogance...... Doctors who believe they know everything and their way is the only way. With this attitude, if the treatment doesn't work, it's the patients fault.
We are living with a disorder;
Which has no set standard of treatment, even theories on surgical procedures vary widely.
An infinite number of theories on Splint Therapy.
No long term Case History Compilations for providers to use as reference.
Very few long term Contolled Studies of "Before & After's" on different therapies used.
No reliable sources of successes & failures.
The National Health Inst. is trying to remedy this. It will take time.
In the 26 years I have lived in this world of TMJD, there has been very little progress.
There are a few Dentists, TMJ Specialists, etc., who have realized that "WE" have to have help. "WE" can't wait any longer.
These Professionals who combine their knowledge, consult and share experiences with patient responses to different treatments, (successes & failures) are those who are beginning to understand the complexities of the disease and also have realized that each patient is different.
Assembly Line Treatment for TMJD is obsolete and hopefully will soon be recognized as such.
We may all fall under the category of TMJD.
We are all very different and experience different symtoms & problems. We know what works wonders for one, may cause damage to another.
I believe "TMJD Disorder or Disease" is slowly being recognized as a very unique, complicated, and for the most part, a totally misunderstood problem in the Dental and Medical Professions.
My personal opinion is that the "TIME" involved to treat each person individually has been the main factor in failed treatments and treatments that have caused further problems or damage.
I believe we are on the verge of seeing a New Breed (so to speak) of Professionals who will be willing to take the "TIME" to learn about the disease and more importantly, take the "TIME" to treat appropriately.
I believe you have found one of these "Professionals" (as I have) and my hopes, as always, are for all to find the "One" who will help them.
Cymy Sue
Jill J
06-15-2003, 09:23 AM
Cheryl, I am so happy for you and Mike. How wonderful to have hope again. That's what gets alot of us down is no hope. This is soooooooo wonderful maybe I'll have to take a trip to Ohio.....lol NJ not too far away :)
Best of luck and tell Mike I'm pulling for him, Jill
Best of luck and tell Mike I'm pulling for him, Jill
DianeTMJ
06-15-2003, 12:12 PM
Good morning CHeryl!
Cheryl! This guy! Oh my goodness! You know what, he is training like my guy! He didn't feel that LVI was enough and also goes to Pittsburgh and West Virginia for training. He called you from Las Vegas! Cheryl, this is so cool. He really, really, really cares and more importantly... he is HONEST! He is letting you know everything up front, he realizes that Mike's case is complicated and isn't SO FULL OF HIMSELF, he realizes that to get Mike better, he is going to need help from others to do it. Cheryl, that is really, really something else. He is not all puffed up with self pride, to the point that he endangers his patients. He cares Cheryl, he really, really cares. We are so happy for you!
Now how did the tens go last night for Mike? Any better?
Cheryl, I know that you are real concerned about the chiro doing any big adjustments on Mike but see about the adjustment of the 1st rib. It pulls on that muscle your dentist was talking about. Now, not all chiros can adjust the first rib. It really, really, helped. I wish I could remember how she did it on me. It was not popping the neck, that I do know.
Cymy Sue -
Wow, that was a wonderful post. Humbleness, is so important. TIME is vital. Caring, listening, patients, when treating TMJD is a must.
Life is good, sometimes it throws things our way to test us. I had told a customer/friend of ours, the attorney from Texas about my ordeal with TMJD and that I now had someone to help me, she thought it was cool that instead of just laying down and letting it control my life, I was doing whatever I could to find a positive out of it... you know what my positive is?
The tens unit I use every night... well... it is my little "fountain of youth".... wrinkles are disappearing off the right side of my face everyday! Tee hee hee!
I love this board, I love caring of all, the sharing.
THank you everyone.
Life truly is good.
Later
Diane
Cheryl! This guy! Oh my goodness! You know what, he is training like my guy! He didn't feel that LVI was enough and also goes to Pittsburgh and West Virginia for training. He called you from Las Vegas! Cheryl, this is so cool. He really, really, really cares and more importantly... he is HONEST! He is letting you know everything up front, he realizes that Mike's case is complicated and isn't SO FULL OF HIMSELF, he realizes that to get Mike better, he is going to need help from others to do it. Cheryl, that is really, really something else. He is not all puffed up with self pride, to the point that he endangers his patients. He cares Cheryl, he really, really cares. We are so happy for you!
Now how did the tens go last night for Mike? Any better?
Cheryl, I know that you are real concerned about the chiro doing any big adjustments on Mike but see about the adjustment of the 1st rib. It pulls on that muscle your dentist was talking about. Now, not all chiros can adjust the first rib. It really, really, helped. I wish I could remember how she did it on me. It was not popping the neck, that I do know.
Cymy Sue -
Wow, that was a wonderful post. Humbleness, is so important. TIME is vital. Caring, listening, patients, when treating TMJD is a must.
Life is good, sometimes it throws things our way to test us. I had told a customer/friend of ours, the attorney from Texas about my ordeal with TMJD and that I now had someone to help me, she thought it was cool that instead of just laying down and letting it control my life, I was doing whatever I could to find a positive out of it... you know what my positive is?
The tens unit I use every night... well... it is my little "fountain of youth".... wrinkles are disappearing off the right side of my face everyday! Tee hee hee!
I love this board, I love caring of all, the sharing.
THank you everyone.
Life truly is good.
Later
Diane
totallyconfused
06-15-2003, 01:33 PM
Cheryl,
This dentist sounds truly wonderful. It makes me wish I lived in where you do!! I could be wrong, but I don't think my dentist is one of those who will take his cases to others for their opinions. I wish he were. Maybe this guy will be able to help you, too. Keep us updated and thanks for offering to ask about that info for me. If he does the listening (doppler whatever it is) make sure he explains what the numbers mean and what levels of degeneration,inflammation, etc he thinks they correlate to. Also, if they can change so much from one opening to the next how you can get an accurate diagnosis. Maybe your guys machine is better.
I am so excited for you :bouncing: ,
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-16-2003).]
This dentist sounds truly wonderful. It makes me wish I lived in where you do!! I could be wrong, but I don't think my dentist is one of those who will take his cases to others for their opinions. I wish he were. Maybe this guy will be able to help you, too. Keep us updated and thanks for offering to ask about that info for me. If he does the listening (doppler whatever it is) make sure he explains what the numbers mean and what levels of degeneration,inflammation, etc he thinks they correlate to. Also, if they can change so much from one opening to the next how you can get an accurate diagnosis. Maybe your guys machine is better.
I am so excited for you :bouncing: ,
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-16-2003).]
Eric1
06-15-2003, 01:53 PM
Hi Cheryl, I was reading how you mentioned he consulted with some doctor in Pittsburgh. I've seen a few here and maybe you could ask him who he spoke with. I drive 3 hours to Erie to see my doctor and he just doesn't talk. He's in and out of the room in a blink of an eye and convinced me this splint was going to help so much. I'm going to keep giving it a shot and see how it goes but so far not awhole lot. I really think he should've tried to get my jaw more relaxed first before making it because I was tight and bit into the mold crooked I thought. Anyway the bite splint needed serious adjustments cause it barely fit in my mouth at one spot.
I think with all the posts we've seen about failed treatment plans from our doctors, like Diane said they need a more varying approach to each patient. I've seen the head of Pitt medical center and he referred me to another doctor who was also supposed to be a teacher there. Well he made the oddest bite splint you have ever seen. It would pull my uvula (I think I spelled that right) aways from the back of my throat. First of all it clipped on my upper teeth with metal clips and was extremely uncomfortable. He also would never even speak to me and as far as the tests you're describing they did nothing at all. Not even an xray and this was 6 years ago sure but it just shows how many doctors are not current with the latest techniquest at all. I can just imagine how many people go through what I have so I'm making my own website to educate people. Anyway drop me a line Cherylynn if you find out the name of that doctor. Take care and stay strong. Eric
[This message has been edited by Eric1 (edited 06-15-2003).]
I think with all the posts we've seen about failed treatment plans from our doctors, like Diane said they need a more varying approach to each patient. I've seen the head of Pitt medical center and he referred me to another doctor who was also supposed to be a teacher there. Well he made the oddest bite splint you have ever seen. It would pull my uvula (I think I spelled that right) aways from the back of my throat. First of all it clipped on my upper teeth with metal clips and was extremely uncomfortable. He also would never even speak to me and as far as the tests you're describing they did nothing at all. Not even an xray and this was 6 years ago sure but it just shows how many doctors are not current with the latest techniquest at all. I can just imagine how many people go through what I have so I'm making my own website to educate people. Anyway drop me a line Cherylynn if you find out the name of that doctor. Take care and stay strong. Eric
[This message has been edited by Eric1 (edited 06-15-2003).]
shell389
06-15-2003, 05:15 PM
Cheryl,
That news is so great!!! How wonderful that guy is! Mike is in the best hands possible now. Just wait and see, he will be feeling better soon. This was definitely the answer to all the prayers that have been going out for Mike.
How is Mike feeling today after using the tens again? I hope it brought his pain level down again.
Keep me up to date about what is going on. Take care, Michelle
That news is so great!!! How wonderful that guy is! Mike is in the best hands possible now. Just wait and see, he will be feeling better soon. This was definitely the answer to all the prayers that have been going out for Mike.
How is Mike feeling today after using the tens again? I hope it brought his pain level down again.
Keep me up to date about what is going on. Take care, Michelle
CherylLynn24
06-15-2003, 06:48 PM
Cymy Sue,
Thank you. What you have written is so true. I think that people can find relief through a dentist, tmjd specialist, neuromuscular dentist, or even an OS who truly takes the time through splint therapy. Just because a certain type of splint has worked with little Suzie, or little Danny, doesn't mean that it's going to work with little Mike. We are all different, our bites, our teeth, our symptoms, out history, our whole make-up for that matter. That's where time and good listening skills come into the picture. Professionals need to 'listen' to us, and take the time to create the 'correct' splint, and to consult. with others when necessary. I've noticed this seems to be quite a problem, going by what other board members have said here, and of course, through my own experience.
You speak of 'Assembly Line Treatment for TMJD'. Through my own experience with my son, this seems to be how a large number operate. I found a 'TMJD Specialist' for Mike, months ago. I was thrilled initially, to find his name on the American Academy site, and even more excited that his practice was 100% TMJD-related. He had many initials after his name, so at the time, I thought that this man was it! Boy, what a let-down. I'm begining to realize that all those initials after you're name don't necessarily mean that much. Upon seeing this man, he promised him that he wouldn't leave him this way, within a months time, he was talking of pain management clinics. He tried 2 different splints on him. He told me, that was it. Now, I know there are more than 2 different types of splints, He's already on his 4th, with a soon-to-be 5th! This man had a big, open office, so it was easy to look around you at everyone else being treated. (this was inside the office, not in the waiting room) I would look around when we were inside, at everyone sitting in their dental chairs with splints in hand. Honest, Cymy Sue, everyone had nearly the same type of splint!!! The same kind DOESN'T work for everyone, we're all DIFFERENT! I always had questions and concerns, he usually made me feel as though I were interrupting his 'system', and that I shouldn't question what he does, for he is the specialist, not me, right? I have learned that we have to be a part of treatment, through questions and knowledge. (through our own research) I do believe that a regular dentist may help us, over a 'specialist', at times, if he has the 'drive' to do so.
I feel that I've gotten him into many dentists, ortho.'s, ENT's, Neurologists, TMJD specialists, pediatricians, Neuromuscular dentists, and an OS, etc., in a record amount of time, due to the fact that I am home during the day, and I have had 'friends' in the medical community 'pull strings' to get him into certain offices, sooner. For all this, I'm grateful. How many people have tried 4 splints in about 5 months time? I truly believe, like you've said, it's finding the 'right' person who is going to take the time to handle our 'individual needs'. The 'specialists' need to realize, as we have, what works for one, may not work for another.
I do hope that his 'right person' has been found, but if he's not 'the one', I feel confident that he'll point us in the right direction, and for that, and his effort, I'm grateful. I'm sorry to ramble.
I hope you're having a good day. I understand you should be finding out your results soon, please do let us know what your test results show, and what your treatment will be.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
Thank you. What you have written is so true. I think that people can find relief through a dentist, tmjd specialist, neuromuscular dentist, or even an OS who truly takes the time through splint therapy. Just because a certain type of splint has worked with little Suzie, or little Danny, doesn't mean that it's going to work with little Mike. We are all different, our bites, our teeth, our symptoms, out history, our whole make-up for that matter. That's where time and good listening skills come into the picture. Professionals need to 'listen' to us, and take the time to create the 'correct' splint, and to consult. with others when necessary. I've noticed this seems to be quite a problem, going by what other board members have said here, and of course, through my own experience.
You speak of 'Assembly Line Treatment for TMJD'. Through my own experience with my son, this seems to be how a large number operate. I found a 'TMJD Specialist' for Mike, months ago. I was thrilled initially, to find his name on the American Academy site, and even more excited that his practice was 100% TMJD-related. He had many initials after his name, so at the time, I thought that this man was it! Boy, what a let-down. I'm begining to realize that all those initials after you're name don't necessarily mean that much. Upon seeing this man, he promised him that he wouldn't leave him this way, within a months time, he was talking of pain management clinics. He tried 2 different splints on him. He told me, that was it. Now, I know there are more than 2 different types of splints, He's already on his 4th, with a soon-to-be 5th! This man had a big, open office, so it was easy to look around you at everyone else being treated. (this was inside the office, not in the waiting room) I would look around when we were inside, at everyone sitting in their dental chairs with splints in hand. Honest, Cymy Sue, everyone had nearly the same type of splint!!! The same kind DOESN'T work for everyone, we're all DIFFERENT! I always had questions and concerns, he usually made me feel as though I were interrupting his 'system', and that I shouldn't question what he does, for he is the specialist, not me, right? I have learned that we have to be a part of treatment, through questions and knowledge. (through our own research) I do believe that a regular dentist may help us, over a 'specialist', at times, if he has the 'drive' to do so.
I feel that I've gotten him into many dentists, ortho.'s, ENT's, Neurologists, TMJD specialists, pediatricians, Neuromuscular dentists, and an OS, etc., in a record amount of time, due to the fact that I am home during the day, and I have had 'friends' in the medical community 'pull strings' to get him into certain offices, sooner. For all this, I'm grateful. How many people have tried 4 splints in about 5 months time? I truly believe, like you've said, it's finding the 'right' person who is going to take the time to handle our 'individual needs'. The 'specialists' need to realize, as we have, what works for one, may not work for another.
I do hope that his 'right person' has been found, but if he's not 'the one', I feel confident that he'll point us in the right direction, and for that, and his effort, I'm grateful. I'm sorry to ramble.
I hope you're having a good day. I understand you should be finding out your results soon, please do let us know what your test results show, and what your treatment will be.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
CherylLynn24
06-15-2003, 07:18 PM
Jill,
Thanks for your warm wishes. It is nice to have hope, it's what keeps us going and trying. There is a 'right' person for each of us out there, we just have to find them!
Diane,
A few heads are always better than one!
As for the tens unit, he used it again last night, same thing. It took the pain level down to a 5 again. So, it's giving him a bit of a break from feeling so lousy, a definite plus! He usually wakes up feeling the same as usual, though. I'm going to continue to have him use it at night, and maybe eventually try it in the morning. The dentist told me yesterday that you can't over-tens him.
As for the first-rib, I'm not too familiar with that, I'll ask the chiro. about this when we go tomorrow. I do want all the chiro.'s work to be 'simple' at this point, though.
I hope that you're having a very nice day, and I hope that you continue to be pain-free!
TC,
Thanks for your response. I will pay attention and ask questions as to all that's done on Thursday. There's just so much, that it's hard to consume all of it, and understand what it all means. His dentist has explained quite a bit to me, although I have to say with some things, when I leave, I sometimes forget. I will let you know what I find out, though.
Eric,
Thanks for writing. Wow! 3 hours is a long drive. I've never heard of the type of splint that you've described, it sounds awful! I will work it into the conversation when I speak to him, about the dentist in Pittsburgh. Maybe it'll be someone that's been right under your nose!
Michelle,
He got the same response as the first night, his pain level came down a few notches, which is good. It provides for a much needed break. Hopefully, within time, his muscles will take a bit of a break from harrassing him so much!
How are you feeling today? I hope that you're having a better day today, than yesterday. Hang in there!
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
Thanks for your warm wishes. It is nice to have hope, it's what keeps us going and trying. There is a 'right' person for each of us out there, we just have to find them!
Diane,
A few heads are always better than one!
As for the tens unit, he used it again last night, same thing. It took the pain level down to a 5 again. So, it's giving him a bit of a break from feeling so lousy, a definite plus! He usually wakes up feeling the same as usual, though. I'm going to continue to have him use it at night, and maybe eventually try it in the morning. The dentist told me yesterday that you can't over-tens him.
As for the first-rib, I'm not too familiar with that, I'll ask the chiro. about this when we go tomorrow. I do want all the chiro.'s work to be 'simple' at this point, though.
I hope that you're having a very nice day, and I hope that you continue to be pain-free!
TC,
Thanks for your response. I will pay attention and ask questions as to all that's done on Thursday. There's just so much, that it's hard to consume all of it, and understand what it all means. His dentist has explained quite a bit to me, although I have to say with some things, when I leave, I sometimes forget. I will let you know what I find out, though.
Eric,
Thanks for writing. Wow! 3 hours is a long drive. I've never heard of the type of splint that you've described, it sounds awful! I will work it into the conversation when I speak to him, about the dentist in Pittsburgh. Maybe it'll be someone that's been right under your nose!
Michelle,
He got the same response as the first night, his pain level came down a few notches, which is good. It provides for a much needed break. Hopefully, within time, his muscles will take a bit of a break from harrassing him so much!
How are you feeling today? I hope that you're having a better day today, than yesterday. Hang in there!
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
Arleen
06-16-2003, 12:00 AM
Hi Cheryl:
This dentist sounds amazing!!! I can't believe he even called you long distance. Sounds like he is dedicated to his work, and to you and Mike. You don't run into many people, in whatever field, who really love their work and are enthusiastic about it. I think it also says something for you and Mike, that you both must be special people, that he's going so much overboard to try and help. I'm really hoping he can help.
I'd thought he was some kind of fancy specialist, but you mentioned transferring the rest of your family over. So, is he a regular dentist who just so happens to have a neuromuscular approach? Also, what is an OS - I've seen that on the board a couple of times.
How's Mike doing with the tens? When you mention his pain level, is that a subjective number, for example, just pick where you are a scale from 1-10? Or is it something that is measured by the tens?
I hope you guys had a great weekend. Can't wait to hear about your appointment on Thursday.
Arleen
This dentist sounds amazing!!! I can't believe he even called you long distance. Sounds like he is dedicated to his work, and to you and Mike. You don't run into many people, in whatever field, who really love their work and are enthusiastic about it. I think it also says something for you and Mike, that you both must be special people, that he's going so much overboard to try and help. I'm really hoping he can help.
I'd thought he was some kind of fancy specialist, but you mentioned transferring the rest of your family over. So, is he a regular dentist who just so happens to have a neuromuscular approach? Also, what is an OS - I've seen that on the board a couple of times.
How's Mike doing with the tens? When you mention his pain level, is that a subjective number, for example, just pick where you are a scale from 1-10? Or is it something that is measured by the tens?
I hope you guys had a great weekend. Can't wait to hear about your appointment on Thursday.
Arleen
CherylLynn24
06-16-2003, 12:20 AM
Hi Arleen,
How are you doing? My Husband and I were talking of your visit to the specialist the other day. He couldn't get over the 60 dollar charge for the crash course in yawning!
He's been doing pretty good with the tens. Hopefully, after using it for a while, we'll see a little less pain. The whole number system came about while we were visiting a surgeon. He asked him to rate his pain from 1 to 10, with 10 being your leg half cut off. (that's exactly how he described it!) He has always said that his is a 7 or 8. It has nothing to do with the tens, just an idea to see how bad he really feels.
He saw an OS. Oral Surgeon, or Orofacial Surgeon. The current dentist that he sees does do general dentistry, too. He graduated from LVI, and is also a Neuromuscular Dentist. He seems to do quite a bit of work with people with TMJ dysfunctions. I'd much rather him work on me than the old dentist!
So, how was your weekend? Did you decide whether or not you're going to this new specialist? Let me know.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
How are you doing? My Husband and I were talking of your visit to the specialist the other day. He couldn't get over the 60 dollar charge for the crash course in yawning!
He's been doing pretty good with the tens. Hopefully, after using it for a while, we'll see a little less pain. The whole number system came about while we were visiting a surgeon. He asked him to rate his pain from 1 to 10, with 10 being your leg half cut off. (that's exactly how he described it!) He has always said that his is a 7 or 8. It has nothing to do with the tens, just an idea to see how bad he really feels.
He saw an OS. Oral Surgeon, or Orofacial Surgeon. The current dentist that he sees does do general dentistry, too. He graduated from LVI, and is also a Neuromuscular Dentist. He seems to do quite a bit of work with people with TMJ dysfunctions. I'd much rather him work on me than the old dentist!
So, how was your weekend? Did you decide whether or not you're going to this new specialist? Let me know.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
Arleen
06-16-2003, 12:50 AM
Hi Cheryl:
Thanks for answering my questions and clarifying the pain numbers. At one point, I was sent to a oral pathologist. She treated me like a subject for her research and anytime I said I was experiencing pain, she stuck a piece of paper in front of me with the numbers 1-10 on it. I was to select the appropriate number, which she'd then circle. She also dictated and wrote up each session. That's why I wondered how you were ranking pain. Hopefully soon the numbers will be veeeeery low.
I had a down weekend. Guess a lot of feeling sorry for myself. I'm upset and annoyed about my last appointment. Annoyed (and slightly amused) that this grown man could act like such a 2 year old - you wouldn't have believed it. Upset because I was hoping to have found "the" dentist. Here I am just starting with him and he had all this bad attitude. How would he be once I was already committed to his treatment plan?
I never did learn how to yawn "correctly." When he heard I didn't have pain when yawning, he didn't bother to show me. My $60 advice was not to wear my purse on my shoulder!
I left a message for a TMJ only physio on Friday. I'll give her another call tomorrow. Hopefully she can direct me to a good dentist. She follows a neuromuscular approach, so I'm hoping she'll know someone. Otherwise, I don't know what I'll do. Maybe Diane's dentist will know someone here (it's a long shot).
I also thought my problem would be with the muscles. But he said my condyles are very retruded. He didn't explain what this means, and I don't really know, but it doesn't sound good. The right side of my face hurt more than usual this weekend, and the longer I go without help, I think the worse it's going to get.
So, all in all, I felt down this weekend. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.
I'm glad things are looking up for you and Mike.
Hugs,
Arleen
Thanks for answering my questions and clarifying the pain numbers. At one point, I was sent to a oral pathologist. She treated me like a subject for her research and anytime I said I was experiencing pain, she stuck a piece of paper in front of me with the numbers 1-10 on it. I was to select the appropriate number, which she'd then circle. She also dictated and wrote up each session. That's why I wondered how you were ranking pain. Hopefully soon the numbers will be veeeeery low.
I had a down weekend. Guess a lot of feeling sorry for myself. I'm upset and annoyed about my last appointment. Annoyed (and slightly amused) that this grown man could act like such a 2 year old - you wouldn't have believed it. Upset because I was hoping to have found "the" dentist. Here I am just starting with him and he had all this bad attitude. How would he be once I was already committed to his treatment plan?
I never did learn how to yawn "correctly." When he heard I didn't have pain when yawning, he didn't bother to show me. My $60 advice was not to wear my purse on my shoulder!
I left a message for a TMJ only physio on Friday. I'll give her another call tomorrow. Hopefully she can direct me to a good dentist. She follows a neuromuscular approach, so I'm hoping she'll know someone. Otherwise, I don't know what I'll do. Maybe Diane's dentist will know someone here (it's a long shot).
I also thought my problem would be with the muscles. But he said my condyles are very retruded. He didn't explain what this means, and I don't really know, but it doesn't sound good. The right side of my face hurt more than usual this weekend, and the longer I go without help, I think the worse it's going to get.
So, all in all, I felt down this weekend. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.
I'm glad things are looking up for you and Mike.
Hugs,
Arleen
CherylLynn24
06-16-2003, 01:24 AM
Arleen,
I'm sorry to hear that you've been down. You'll find someone good, just keep looking. The appt. you had with the most recent 'candidate' didn't sound like it went that good. I would be concerned, too, if I chose to go with his treatment plan, would I ever be able to ask anything, would he truly try to help me, etc... We all want someone that we can talk to, and who'll take the time to answer our questions. The sad thing is, no matter who we chose, it's a gamble. We don't know if they're good or not, just what they tell us. (and they surely aren't going to tell us if they're NOT very good at what they do!)
Geez....$60 to tell you not to carry your purse on your shoulder, that's robbery!
I know that you're in Toronto. Have you checked LVI's site, if you're looking for someone with a Neuro. background? If you do an alumni search, Canada is listed there, too. Maybe there is someone by you, and you just didn't know.
The dentist that he's seeing is wonderful, like I told everyone else, he may NOT be the person to help, but his efforts have been remarkable. It's nice to see a professional give their 'all'. Time will tell.
It is a good idea, however, to find out if your friend knows of anyone. Sometimes word-of-mouth is far better than guessing.
How have those noisy neighbors been treating you?
It's already after 12, and he still hasn't used his tens, yet. Looks like it's going to be a late night. He's more of a night owl, like his mother here. He's got a chiro. appt. tomorrow, in addition to a massotherapy appt. Boy, it seems as though most days are spent in doctor/dentist's offices! Hopefully, things begin to tame down soon, and he has at least part of a decent summer.
Hang in there, Arleen, you will find the 'right' person to help you. It's wise not to jump into anyone's care without thinking first, like you're doing. Unfortunately, I've 'jumped' before, and it was a waste of money, and more importantly....time.
You have a good night. :)
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
I'm sorry to hear that you've been down. You'll find someone good, just keep looking. The appt. you had with the most recent 'candidate' didn't sound like it went that good. I would be concerned, too, if I chose to go with his treatment plan, would I ever be able to ask anything, would he truly try to help me, etc... We all want someone that we can talk to, and who'll take the time to answer our questions. The sad thing is, no matter who we chose, it's a gamble. We don't know if they're good or not, just what they tell us. (and they surely aren't going to tell us if they're NOT very good at what they do!)
Geez....$60 to tell you not to carry your purse on your shoulder, that's robbery!
I know that you're in Toronto. Have you checked LVI's site, if you're looking for someone with a Neuro. background? If you do an alumni search, Canada is listed there, too. Maybe there is someone by you, and you just didn't know.
The dentist that he's seeing is wonderful, like I told everyone else, he may NOT be the person to help, but his efforts have been remarkable. It's nice to see a professional give their 'all'. Time will tell.
It is a good idea, however, to find out if your friend knows of anyone. Sometimes word-of-mouth is far better than guessing.
How have those noisy neighbors been treating you?
It's already after 12, and he still hasn't used his tens, yet. Looks like it's going to be a late night. He's more of a night owl, like his mother here. He's got a chiro. appt. tomorrow, in addition to a massotherapy appt. Boy, it seems as though most days are spent in doctor/dentist's offices! Hopefully, things begin to tame down soon, and he has at least part of a decent summer.
Hang in there, Arleen, you will find the 'right' person to help you. It's wise not to jump into anyone's care without thinking first, like you're doing. Unfortunately, I've 'jumped' before, and it was a waste of money, and more importantly....time.
You have a good night. :)
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
Arleen
06-16-2003, 05:51 PM
Hi Cheryl:
How are you and Mike doing today? Hopefully very well.
Last week I checked the LVI site. There are several dentists listed in Ontario. I've called a couple of them, and even though they went to LVI, they don't do neuromuscular testing. Based on websites, some appear much more into cosmetic dentistry than TMJ. One is 2 hours away and booking appointments for the end of July!! Also, only 10% of his patients are TMJ. The receptionist said he does neuromuscular testing, but 10% is very low. Another, who is an hour away, is an orthodontist, so that would likely be his treatment focus. Also, I can't remember if he does neuromuscular testing.
I've tried to reach the TMJ physio several times today and all I get is an answering machine. So, at the moment it looks like I'm at a dead end. Think I'll go try again. I've already left 2 messages.
Arleen
How are you and Mike doing today? Hopefully very well.
Last week I checked the LVI site. There are several dentists listed in Ontario. I've called a couple of them, and even though they went to LVI, they don't do neuromuscular testing. Based on websites, some appear much more into cosmetic dentistry than TMJ. One is 2 hours away and booking appointments for the end of July!! Also, only 10% of his patients are TMJ. The receptionist said he does neuromuscular testing, but 10% is very low. Another, who is an hour away, is an orthodontist, so that would likely be his treatment focus. Also, I can't remember if he does neuromuscular testing.
I've tried to reach the TMJ physio several times today and all I get is an answering machine. So, at the moment it looks like I'm at a dead end. Think I'll go try again. I've already left 2 messages.
Arleen
CherylLynn24
06-16-2003, 08:22 PM
Hi Arleen,
How have you been? I'm really surprised to hear that the Neuromuscular dentists that you called don't do Neuro. testing. That just doesn't make sense. I think Diane's dentist also does some type of ortho., too. (Hey Diane, pipe in here and let us know if your dentist does more than TMJD!) I know that my son's dentist does more, other than TMJD. Keep trying to get a hold of your friend, maybe she can offer some advice on who to see.
He's hanging in there. Tonight's going to be an earlier night. Last night, he didn't get the tens on until around 1, so we were up until 3! (and let me tell you, Sunday night television is for the birds!)
Hope you're having a good night, and let me know what you come up with.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
How have you been? I'm really surprised to hear that the Neuromuscular dentists that you called don't do Neuro. testing. That just doesn't make sense. I think Diane's dentist also does some type of ortho., too. (Hey Diane, pipe in here and let us know if your dentist does more than TMJD!) I know that my son's dentist does more, other than TMJD. Keep trying to get a hold of your friend, maybe she can offer some advice on who to see.
He's hanging in there. Tonight's going to be an earlier night. Last night, he didn't get the tens on until around 1, so we were up until 3! (and let me tell you, Sunday night television is for the birds!)
Hope you're having a good night, and let me know what you come up with.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]