jafc
06-11-2003, 04:49 PM
Wow am I glad I found this board! I have had TMJ for 14 years am now on my third appliance (this one made by a neuromuscular dentist). So far the NMD approach seems to be helping me but it's going to be a long road.
When my childhood dentist made my first nightguard, I wore it for a few years without any pain relief, but my teeth were protected. Then a little piece at one end broke off so I brought it back to him. He filed down the rough edge and gave it back to me to wear. Idiotically, I followed his instruction and wore it. Not too much time passed before the tooth no longer covered by the guard erupted out of my gum from the pressure of my clenching, causing my teeth to only touch in one place.
I changed dentists promptly and began seeing a TMJ specialist. She brought me to Tufts Dental School to see the head of the school for a consultation. They agreed that the only option was to file/shave down (don't know the technical term) my teeth to attempt to restore my bite. She made me a new nightguard, put me on elavil, and attempted to restore my bite.
She got me to a certain point with my bite but then it was time to try to conceive so I weaned myself off the elavil. Then DH and I moved to the burbs and I started with a new (non-TMJ) dentist. I figured that while TTC/pregnant/nursing, I couldn't be on medication so why pursue the TMJ now? Unfortunately, during these past 4.5 years, my bite worsened.
I had my new dentist check my nightguard at regular visits to make sure it fit properly. I was talking about my TMJ with him and he said that I should speak with a colleague who had recently come (or come back, I'm not sure) to his practice who specialized in a new, highly effective, drug-free TMJ treatment, NMD.
I made an appt. for a consultation. This (NM)dentist examined me first standing, then walking and basically diagnosed my chronic pain just from examining my posture and forward head position. He then examined my mouth -- teeth and tongue and showed me that I have ridges on my tongue b/c there isn't enough room in my lower jaw for it to rest so it pushes up against my palate and out toward my teeth. He asked if I have headaches (yes), tinnitus (yes), sore neck & upper back (yes), snoring (I think I have sleep apnea maybe caused by the tongue issue), nasal polyps (seems I do from a recent x-ray) and deviated septum, these last two from the tongue pressing up. I've never before had anyone be able to tell me so much about the state of my health so quickly. It was so overwhelming I almost started crying.
He also referred me to a chiropractor who performs a brutal myofacial release on my masseter and terragoid (sp?) muscles. It's excruciating but afterwards I feel loose and great. He also helps me with my other problem areas.
I've been in my "orthotic" for about 3 weeks and am having reduced jaw pain and clicking. After 2.5 or more months with the orthotic, I'll probably need braces to move my teeth back to where they're supposed to be. Not psyched about that -- I dislike wearing my orthotic 24/7, but not as much as I feared. I do take it out when I eat though (my NMD knows this). Yesterday I noticed that I have bitten two small holes through the acrylic. Message back from dentist said to keep wearing til my next appt. (9 days).
I'm curious -- has anyone been fully through NMD and could fill me and everyone in on the results? Also, has anyone ever had any success reducing clenching while sleeping? And how do you get it covered by insurance -- my dental ins. pays nothing for TMJ and health partially covers "treatment" but not the "appliance."
Thanks for making it through this long post!
------------------
Judy
When my childhood dentist made my first nightguard, I wore it for a few years without any pain relief, but my teeth were protected. Then a little piece at one end broke off so I brought it back to him. He filed down the rough edge and gave it back to me to wear. Idiotically, I followed his instruction and wore it. Not too much time passed before the tooth no longer covered by the guard erupted out of my gum from the pressure of my clenching, causing my teeth to only touch in one place.
I changed dentists promptly and began seeing a TMJ specialist. She brought me to Tufts Dental School to see the head of the school for a consultation. They agreed that the only option was to file/shave down (don't know the technical term) my teeth to attempt to restore my bite. She made me a new nightguard, put me on elavil, and attempted to restore my bite.
She got me to a certain point with my bite but then it was time to try to conceive so I weaned myself off the elavil. Then DH and I moved to the burbs and I started with a new (non-TMJ) dentist. I figured that while TTC/pregnant/nursing, I couldn't be on medication so why pursue the TMJ now? Unfortunately, during these past 4.5 years, my bite worsened.
I had my new dentist check my nightguard at regular visits to make sure it fit properly. I was talking about my TMJ with him and he said that I should speak with a colleague who had recently come (or come back, I'm not sure) to his practice who specialized in a new, highly effective, drug-free TMJ treatment, NMD.
I made an appt. for a consultation. This (NM)dentist examined me first standing, then walking and basically diagnosed my chronic pain just from examining my posture and forward head position. He then examined my mouth -- teeth and tongue and showed me that I have ridges on my tongue b/c there isn't enough room in my lower jaw for it to rest so it pushes up against my palate and out toward my teeth. He asked if I have headaches (yes), tinnitus (yes), sore neck & upper back (yes), snoring (I think I have sleep apnea maybe caused by the tongue issue), nasal polyps (seems I do from a recent x-ray) and deviated septum, these last two from the tongue pressing up. I've never before had anyone be able to tell me so much about the state of my health so quickly. It was so overwhelming I almost started crying.
He also referred me to a chiropractor who performs a brutal myofacial release on my masseter and terragoid (sp?) muscles. It's excruciating but afterwards I feel loose and great. He also helps me with my other problem areas.
I've been in my "orthotic" for about 3 weeks and am having reduced jaw pain and clicking. After 2.5 or more months with the orthotic, I'll probably need braces to move my teeth back to where they're supposed to be. Not psyched about that -- I dislike wearing my orthotic 24/7, but not as much as I feared. I do take it out when I eat though (my NMD knows this). Yesterday I noticed that I have bitten two small holes through the acrylic. Message back from dentist said to keep wearing til my next appt. (9 days).
I'm curious -- has anyone been fully through NMD and could fill me and everyone in on the results? Also, has anyone ever had any success reducing clenching while sleeping? And how do you get it covered by insurance -- my dental ins. pays nothing for TMJ and health partially covers "treatment" but not the "appliance."
Thanks for making it through this long post!
------------------
Judy
Sponsor
Arleen
06-11-2003, 09:11 PM
Hi Judy:
Wedome to the board. There are great people and lots of useful information here.
I can't answer your questions, unfortunately, because I've just started with a TMJ dentist, but there are several people here following a NMD approach. If you don't get a response, have a look at the fairly recent posts, under a number of thread topics. Some of those detail what others have been through.
I appreciate all the detail in your post because I'm still exploring what is the best option for me, so it's always informative to hear what others are doing, or have been through.
Good luck, and take care,
Arleen
Wedome to the board. There are great people and lots of useful information here.
I can't answer your questions, unfortunately, because I've just started with a TMJ dentist, but there are several people here following a NMD approach. If you don't get a response, have a look at the fairly recent posts, under a number of thread topics. Some of those detail what others have been through.
I appreciate all the detail in your post because I'm still exploring what is the best option for me, so it's always informative to hear what others are doing, or have been through.
Good luck, and take care,
Arleen
TiffanyAnn
06-11-2003, 09:30 PM
Hi Judy, :wave:, Welcome to the board:
What type of orthotic are you using now? I just saw a new orthodontist last week and he will be taking impressions to fit me with a occlusal orthotic device. On the insurance...some people on this board have gotten their insurance to pay for some of their TMJ treatment by their dentist listing their diagnosis as MPD rather than TMJ. Just a thought.
Tiffany
[This message has been edited by TiffanyAnn (edited 06-11-2003).]
What type of orthotic are you using now? I just saw a new orthodontist last week and he will be taking impressions to fit me with a occlusal orthotic device. On the insurance...some people on this board have gotten their insurance to pay for some of their TMJ treatment by their dentist listing their diagnosis as MPD rather than TMJ. Just a thought.
Tiffany
[This message has been edited by TiffanyAnn (edited 06-11-2003).]
CherylLynn24
06-11-2003, 11:36 PM
Hi Judy, and Welcome :wave:
I'm currently taking my son to a Neuromuscular Dentist. He seems to be by far, the best yet. He's got many of the same problems and symptoms as you. Hanging the head forward, neck pain, headaches, tinnitus, bite problems, etc...
Right now, I take him to a chiropractor twice a week, followed by a massotherapist. This has helped his forward head position and neck pain tremendously! He rarely complains of his neck hurting lately. With the NMD, he's waiting for his new splint to be made.
You might want to check out recent topics concerning NMD, there seems to be quite a few lately. Diane is also seeing one, and is experiencing relief!
As for insurance, we get my Son's filed under Myofacial Pain Dysfunction, and most of it gets paid for, due to MPD being a medical condition.
You'll learn a lot from everyone here. These are a great group of people. Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
I'm currently taking my son to a Neuromuscular Dentist. He seems to be by far, the best yet. He's got many of the same problems and symptoms as you. Hanging the head forward, neck pain, headaches, tinnitus, bite problems, etc...
Right now, I take him to a chiropractor twice a week, followed by a massotherapist. This has helped his forward head position and neck pain tremendously! He rarely complains of his neck hurting lately. With the NMD, he's waiting for his new splint to be made.
You might want to check out recent topics concerning NMD, there seems to be quite a few lately. Diane is also seeing one, and is experiencing relief!
As for insurance, we get my Son's filed under Myofacial Pain Dysfunction, and most of it gets paid for, due to MPD being a medical condition.
You'll learn a lot from everyone here. These are a great group of people. Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
jafc
06-20-2003, 05:41 PM
Thanks for the warm welcome! I was fascinated to read everyone's posts when I first came across the board but then I messed up and posted a link with links to advertising so I lost my posting privileges for a week. I felt so cut-off even though I had just found all of you! :(
It has been about a month since I was fitted with a neuromuscular orthotic (forgot to ask him for technical name of it) and I saw my dentist today to have adjustments. My front teeth were touching the orthotic, causing some headaches from my nighttime grinding, and I had actually ground two holes through the acrylic.
He put me on the TENS unit for 45 minutes, made the adjustments and repairs and sent me on my merry way. Before I left, he told me that he was very pleased with the way my muscles were responding to the treatment so far. I definitely do feel better and am pleasantly surprised b/c I was sort of skeptical at first about the treatment even though intellectually I understood why it made sense.
------------------
Judy
[This message has been edited by jafc (edited 06-20-2003).]
It has been about a month since I was fitted with a neuromuscular orthotic (forgot to ask him for technical name of it) and I saw my dentist today to have adjustments. My front teeth were touching the orthotic, causing some headaches from my nighttime grinding, and I had actually ground two holes through the acrylic.
He put me on the TENS unit for 45 minutes, made the adjustments and repairs and sent me on my merry way. Before I left, he told me that he was very pleased with the way my muscles were responding to the treatment so far. I definitely do feel better and am pleasantly surprised b/c I was sort of skeptical at first about the treatment even though intellectually I understood why it made sense.
------------------
Judy
[This message has been edited by jafc (edited 06-20-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-20-2003, 06:09 PM
Judy,
Hi!! I'm glad you are getting some relief. Did the dentist say what would help with the tongue thing? I also have ridges on my tongue, but no one has ever said I didn't have enough room for it. Will the orthodontics fix that, or will you have to have some other device? It is good that your dentist did the tens again for your adjustment. I have had my splint over a month and 3 adjustment visits--with 1 actual adjustment and no tens (except to make the splint in the first place).
Please keep us informed of your progress,
TC
Hi!! I'm glad you are getting some relief. Did the dentist say what would help with the tongue thing? I also have ridges on my tongue, but no one has ever said I didn't have enough room for it. Will the orthodontics fix that, or will you have to have some other device? It is good that your dentist did the tens again for your adjustment. I have had my splint over a month and 3 adjustment visits--with 1 actual adjustment and no tens (except to make the splint in the first place).
Please keep us informed of your progress,
TC
jafc
06-20-2003, 06:19 PM
Hi TC,
Apparently I will have to wait for braces to move my teeth in such a way as to open up some more space for my tongue to rest on the floor of my mouth. This could take two years, and won't begin until I'm done with the splint/orthotic (at least two more months).
Next time you see your dentist or GP, ask about the tongue thing. Having your tongue press against the roof of your mouth can cause a number of problems, according to my NMD. In my case, nasal polyps and possibly sleep apnea (I have appts. later this month to get diagnosed and treated).
------------------
Judy
Apparently I will have to wait for braces to move my teeth in such a way as to open up some more space for my tongue to rest on the floor of my mouth. This could take two years, and won't begin until I'm done with the splint/orthotic (at least two more months).
Next time you see your dentist or GP, ask about the tongue thing. Having your tongue press against the roof of your mouth can cause a number of problems, according to my NMD. In my case, nasal polyps and possibly sleep apnea (I have appts. later this month to get diagnosed and treated).
------------------
Judy
totallyconfused
06-20-2003, 07:48 PM
Judy,
Thanks for the reply. As for as I know I don't have nasal polyps or sleep apnea. I thought I read somewhere that ridges or scars on the side of your tongue and the cheeks could be due to clenching. That's what I assumed mine was from. I'll check into it, though.
Thanks,
TC
Thanks for the reply. As for as I know I don't have nasal polyps or sleep apnea. I thought I read somewhere that ridges or scars on the side of your tongue and the cheeks could be due to clenching. That's what I assumed mine was from. I'll check into it, though.
Thanks,
TC
DianeTMJ
06-20-2003, 08:03 PM
Hi Judy !
Welcome to the board! :wave:
Okay, I have been wearing my nm splint for what you guys, a little over a month, and oh boy, DO I FEEL GOOD! It is so nice to smile again, it is so nice to suck through a straw again, it is so nice to not hear the screaming whistle in my ear. I have a long way to go though, he told me at least 6 months before I am stablized and then we will need to figure out where we go from there. I also see a chiro, she adjusted my first rib and ahhhhhhh that felt so good. No more dizzeness, no more vertigo, it was so good.
It will be interesting to follow each other as we progress!
I am so sorry though that you have TMJD, it is such a painful dysfunction, but it sounds like you have the same type of caring nm dentist that I have and Cheryls son has.
I hope you have a good evening..... you do need to know that there are delivery problems with the moneytree right now, so I think in the future we will need to disguse the trees as what, giraffes? None of us received our moneytrees today, I know mine is in Las Vegas, Cheryl's is flying over Ohio with no where to land and TC's.... well... varrrooommmmm! :-)
Take care!
DIane
[This message has been edited by DianeTMJ (edited 06-20-2003).]
Welcome to the board! :wave:
Okay, I have been wearing my nm splint for what you guys, a little over a month, and oh boy, DO I FEEL GOOD! It is so nice to smile again, it is so nice to suck through a straw again, it is so nice to not hear the screaming whistle in my ear. I have a long way to go though, he told me at least 6 months before I am stablized and then we will need to figure out where we go from there. I also see a chiro, she adjusted my first rib and ahhhhhhh that felt so good. No more dizzeness, no more vertigo, it was so good.
It will be interesting to follow each other as we progress!
I am so sorry though that you have TMJD, it is such a painful dysfunction, but it sounds like you have the same type of caring nm dentist that I have and Cheryls son has.
I hope you have a good evening..... you do need to know that there are delivery problems with the moneytree right now, so I think in the future we will need to disguse the trees as what, giraffes? None of us received our moneytrees today, I know mine is in Las Vegas, Cheryl's is flying over Ohio with no where to land and TC's.... well... varrrooommmmm! :-)
Take care!
DIane
[This message has been edited by DianeTMJ (edited 06-20-2003).]
navy2
06-21-2003, 03:54 AM
Hi everyone!
OK, I'm really confused now ...Maybe I should change my name to NC (Navy Confused), ha! Anyway what's all this about the tongue? I always rest mine on the roof of my mouth. I was rold be a TMJ specialist that I should always keep my lips closed and teeth apart with my tongue resting on the roof of my mouth. Apparently that's supposed to be the right way to walk around during the day. That way your jaw is rested & you're not clenching. I've been told that the only time your teeth should contact each other is when you are eating or speaking, My tongue does not just sit on the bottom of my mouth, It is too long for that. I thought that's the way everyone's is. YIKES! I'm starting to think I need body part transfers, or I'll never make it to 50!! To think I was going blissfully through life without a TMJ care in the world until 18 months ago! This is not how I intended to spend my golden years. I surely hope I am not going to have to deal with TMJ in my 50's or beyond!
Also, I am starting to wear the nightguard that my dentist made me to go over my top teeth. Can this cause my teeth to go crooked? It feels like one of my front teeth is turning a little when I run my finger over my teeth. I don't really know anything about my teeth anymore. I never paid really close attention before I had TMJ problems and my disc acted up. People always told me I had beautiful teeth and I wasn't even aware of any problems. Suddenly I have a bad bite, TMJ and everything else. Even when I took my son for his consultation for his wisdom teeth removal, the girls in the office complimented my teeth. When I went to the Ortho, his receptionist said the same thing. So, why is it that I need to have my jaw broken and teeth in braces to get a perfect bite in order to solve my tmj problems? I would think that I would have some problems healing at my age. I would love to be back to the way I felt before the crown was put in, I truly believe that the bad dental work has caused my disc to displace. Well it's very late, maybe I can go get some sleep soon. Hysterectomy AND TMJ, what a year this has been! Talk to you all soon!
Love,
Navy
OK, I'm really confused now ...Maybe I should change my name to NC (Navy Confused), ha! Anyway what's all this about the tongue? I always rest mine on the roof of my mouth. I was rold be a TMJ specialist that I should always keep my lips closed and teeth apart with my tongue resting on the roof of my mouth. Apparently that's supposed to be the right way to walk around during the day. That way your jaw is rested & you're not clenching. I've been told that the only time your teeth should contact each other is when you are eating or speaking, My tongue does not just sit on the bottom of my mouth, It is too long for that. I thought that's the way everyone's is. YIKES! I'm starting to think I need body part transfers, or I'll never make it to 50!! To think I was going blissfully through life without a TMJ care in the world until 18 months ago! This is not how I intended to spend my golden years. I surely hope I am not going to have to deal with TMJ in my 50's or beyond!
Also, I am starting to wear the nightguard that my dentist made me to go over my top teeth. Can this cause my teeth to go crooked? It feels like one of my front teeth is turning a little when I run my finger over my teeth. I don't really know anything about my teeth anymore. I never paid really close attention before I had TMJ problems and my disc acted up. People always told me I had beautiful teeth and I wasn't even aware of any problems. Suddenly I have a bad bite, TMJ and everything else. Even when I took my son for his consultation for his wisdom teeth removal, the girls in the office complimented my teeth. When I went to the Ortho, his receptionist said the same thing. So, why is it that I need to have my jaw broken and teeth in braces to get a perfect bite in order to solve my tmj problems? I would think that I would have some problems healing at my age. I would love to be back to the way I felt before the crown was put in, I truly believe that the bad dental work has caused my disc to displace. Well it's very late, maybe I can go get some sleep soon. Hysterectomy AND TMJ, what a year this has been! Talk to you all soon!
Love,
Navy
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 11:37 AM
Hi Navy!!
I am sorry you are having to deal with so much this year. I can definitely relate. If you are clenching or grinding, you may have like a long scar or ridge running down the side of your tongue or on your cheeks. I have both. You are correct about the relaxed position for your jaw, you don't need to change that. When we sleep, though, I think our tongues fall to the bottom of our mouths and back a little--at least mine does.
Hope you have a good day today,
TC
I am sorry you are having to deal with so much this year. I can definitely relate. If you are clenching or grinding, you may have like a long scar or ridge running down the side of your tongue or on your cheeks. I have both. You are correct about the relaxed position for your jaw, you don't need to change that. When we sleep, though, I think our tongues fall to the bottom of our mouths and back a little--at least mine does.
Hope you have a good day today,
TC
navy2
06-21-2003, 04:08 PM
Thanks TC!
I'm trying to have a good day. I haven't been sleeping much and my 12 year old son said that I need to get some sleep because I have bags under my eyes. He didn't say it to be mean. He's just a truly loving, compassionate child. My angel from heaven. Since all this stuff with my jaw, etc. I'm really starting to look like I'm run down. I think what that specialist said about my pano's really put me over the edge. I went to my chiropractor this morning and had my neck and back adjusted. He said that my TMJ was straight, range of motion good (can do the 3 fingers in the mouth thing) and he went into an explanation of how the tmj works. I love him to death, he's a family friend now, but, every time I bring up TMJ to a doctor/dentist/specialist they go into an explanation of how the tmj works. I am so tired of hearing about it ...lol ..I really only want to know if mine is working correctly or not. He said he could adjust my tmj and put the disc in (I declined bacause when I had it adjusted during a flare up I suffered & the ortho I saw said to be careful about adjusting the tmj because it may displace permanently??) My chiropractor also suggested that I get an MRI and find out what's going on with the soft tissue. He said there isn't much to the tmj joint at all, it's like a little hinge. But, you all know how much trouble it can cause! I wish my chiropractor could have ordered an MRI for me, but, he can't for the jaw. If it was my neck or back or something like that he could. I am getting fanatic about the noise in my left tmj. We went to Lowe's today and I was walking around listening to it click. I guess the best clicking to have is the one with reduction, right? That's the one that may not progress further. The other type of clicking is the one that can progress to jaw locking and other problems later on, right? That's what I read anyway. My left tmj only pops when I open it. I'm concerned because I thought the one with reduction was when it clicked opening and shutting your jaw. But, my range of motion is good. So, that's the only thing that my PT, Chiro, and Dentist care about. My Chiropractor clicks on both sides when he opens his mouth. He's not concerned because the tmj is straight and he opens fine, Maybe I should just get my teeth fixed and live with the clicking ..I might call Doctor Benoit's office on Monday. Maybe he can make some sense of this. All of a sudden it feels like I have a dull ache after I click, Today I'm having no other problems except that. Last night I was sore, but, I also had a PT treatment whereby they worked on trigger points outside and inside my face. The PT said that the trigger points were melting under her fingers. That's progress! I usually get hands on work, ultrasound, heat or ice, and electrical stem, then we do some stretching of the muscles. They also work on my neck which has helped with the spasms and hypermobility/crackling sounds. I have exercises to do for that too. I'm not having the ringing in my ears anymore which is great! Also, the blurry vision episodes are hardly ever happening anymore. Chirporactic is great, but, you still have to stretch the muscles. I've been going to this chiropractor for 8 years and he has helped me so much. The PT I'm seeing is the best I've ever gone too. She helped keep me out of surgery after a bad car accident 9 years ago and I've been seeing her since February for carpal tunnel (cured!), tendinitis/scar tissue in foot from prior surgeries (feels a whole lot better) and my TMJ (which is getting much better with her treatments). It's been working for me. I still have some clicking, but, it's not as loud as it used to be. I guess I'll feel better after I get a proper diagnosis. Most of the people I see, my chiropractor, PT, general dentist think my clicking is no big deal. They said to work on the symptoms and pain so my quality of life is better. My range of motion is great, deviation has been corrected through exercises, and pain is under control with PT and muscle trigger point maasage. I'm left with clicking in my left tmj and some popping. I do have minor problems sometimes. It is very clear that my jaw has to shift into the crown in order for my teeth to close. Maybe that's what's causing me not to be able to completely heal. Today I've been walking around keeping my teeth in the straight position where I would be if the crown was the right size. I'm also wearing the night guard when I can to keep the jaw rested and the teeth apart. I think I'll go to Dr. Benoit and get an opinion of how to proceed. Maybe he'll order the MRI or other tests. I hear he does not do dental work, so, maybe he can work with my general dentist. Anyway, I hope I don't sound like I'm venting too much. It's just so confusing TC!
I hope you have a good weekend and get some sleep too. I pray your headaches take a vacation soon. It's a beautiful, sunny day in Georgia today. I'm trying to smile for my family and not focus on my jaw. I just wish we could train our jaws to behave like we can our children (until they become teenagers anyway..ha!) I told my 16 year old son one day that I didn't know how I ever managed to get along for 48 years without him. This was after he corrected me about something, AGAIN ha ha! It's amazing how we raise them and teach them and then they grow up and think they know more than we do ..ha ha ...I do have great kids though, I so want to be the Mom I used to be for them. Take care TC. You have helped me more than words could ever express. The people on this board are just amazing and so compassionate ...and even though it hurts to laugh somedays, you all bring a smile to my heart.
Have a carefree weekend!
Love,
Navy (NC)
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
I'm trying to have a good day. I haven't been sleeping much and my 12 year old son said that I need to get some sleep because I have bags under my eyes. He didn't say it to be mean. He's just a truly loving, compassionate child. My angel from heaven. Since all this stuff with my jaw, etc. I'm really starting to look like I'm run down. I think what that specialist said about my pano's really put me over the edge. I went to my chiropractor this morning and had my neck and back adjusted. He said that my TMJ was straight, range of motion good (can do the 3 fingers in the mouth thing) and he went into an explanation of how the tmj works. I love him to death, he's a family friend now, but, every time I bring up TMJ to a doctor/dentist/specialist they go into an explanation of how the tmj works. I am so tired of hearing about it ...lol ..I really only want to know if mine is working correctly or not. He said he could adjust my tmj and put the disc in (I declined bacause when I had it adjusted during a flare up I suffered & the ortho I saw said to be careful about adjusting the tmj because it may displace permanently??) My chiropractor also suggested that I get an MRI and find out what's going on with the soft tissue. He said there isn't much to the tmj joint at all, it's like a little hinge. But, you all know how much trouble it can cause! I wish my chiropractor could have ordered an MRI for me, but, he can't for the jaw. If it was my neck or back or something like that he could. I am getting fanatic about the noise in my left tmj. We went to Lowe's today and I was walking around listening to it click. I guess the best clicking to have is the one with reduction, right? That's the one that may not progress further. The other type of clicking is the one that can progress to jaw locking and other problems later on, right? That's what I read anyway. My left tmj only pops when I open it. I'm concerned because I thought the one with reduction was when it clicked opening and shutting your jaw. But, my range of motion is good. So, that's the only thing that my PT, Chiro, and Dentist care about. My Chiropractor clicks on both sides when he opens his mouth. He's not concerned because the tmj is straight and he opens fine, Maybe I should just get my teeth fixed and live with the clicking ..I might call Doctor Benoit's office on Monday. Maybe he can make some sense of this. All of a sudden it feels like I have a dull ache after I click, Today I'm having no other problems except that. Last night I was sore, but, I also had a PT treatment whereby they worked on trigger points outside and inside my face. The PT said that the trigger points were melting under her fingers. That's progress! I usually get hands on work, ultrasound, heat or ice, and electrical stem, then we do some stretching of the muscles. They also work on my neck which has helped with the spasms and hypermobility/crackling sounds. I have exercises to do for that too. I'm not having the ringing in my ears anymore which is great! Also, the blurry vision episodes are hardly ever happening anymore. Chirporactic is great, but, you still have to stretch the muscles. I've been going to this chiropractor for 8 years and he has helped me so much. The PT I'm seeing is the best I've ever gone too. She helped keep me out of surgery after a bad car accident 9 years ago and I've been seeing her since February for carpal tunnel (cured!), tendinitis/scar tissue in foot from prior surgeries (feels a whole lot better) and my TMJ (which is getting much better with her treatments). It's been working for me. I still have some clicking, but, it's not as loud as it used to be. I guess I'll feel better after I get a proper diagnosis. Most of the people I see, my chiropractor, PT, general dentist think my clicking is no big deal. They said to work on the symptoms and pain so my quality of life is better. My range of motion is great, deviation has been corrected through exercises, and pain is under control with PT and muscle trigger point maasage. I'm left with clicking in my left tmj and some popping. I do have minor problems sometimes. It is very clear that my jaw has to shift into the crown in order for my teeth to close. Maybe that's what's causing me not to be able to completely heal. Today I've been walking around keeping my teeth in the straight position where I would be if the crown was the right size. I'm also wearing the night guard when I can to keep the jaw rested and the teeth apart. I think I'll go to Dr. Benoit and get an opinion of how to proceed. Maybe he'll order the MRI or other tests. I hear he does not do dental work, so, maybe he can work with my general dentist. Anyway, I hope I don't sound like I'm venting too much. It's just so confusing TC!
I hope you have a good weekend and get some sleep too. I pray your headaches take a vacation soon. It's a beautiful, sunny day in Georgia today. I'm trying to smile for my family and not focus on my jaw. I just wish we could train our jaws to behave like we can our children (until they become teenagers anyway..ha!) I told my 16 year old son one day that I didn't know how I ever managed to get along for 48 years without him. This was after he corrected me about something, AGAIN ha ha! It's amazing how we raise them and teach them and then they grow up and think they know more than we do ..ha ha ...I do have great kids though, I so want to be the Mom I used to be for them. Take care TC. You have helped me more than words could ever express. The people on this board are just amazing and so compassionate ...and even though it hurts to laugh somedays, you all bring a smile to my heart.
Have a carefree weekend!
Love,
Navy (NC)
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
jafc
06-21-2003, 04:11 PM
Hi Navy,
Hope we didn't open up a new can of worms to worry about with the tongue thing. The way you place your tongue during the day sounds exactly like what my former (excellent) physical therapist told me to do too. The sitting in the floor of your mouth position is what my dentist told me a tongue would normally do if you weren't intentionally putting it in this other position, or if you were asleep. My problem is that my tongue *presses* up against the roof of my mouth (vs. lightly touching as you're doing) and therefore pushes out against the insides of my teeth causing ridges.
I also do happen to have constant irritation/ridges on the insides of my cheeks. I guess it makes sense that they're from clenching/grinding, but my dentist believes my tongue size and the size of my lower jaw are problems for me. That doesn't mean that they are problems for you though. :)
[This message has been edited by jafc (edited 06-21-2003).]
Hope we didn't open up a new can of worms to worry about with the tongue thing. The way you place your tongue during the day sounds exactly like what my former (excellent) physical therapist told me to do too. The sitting in the floor of your mouth position is what my dentist told me a tongue would normally do if you weren't intentionally putting it in this other position, or if you were asleep. My problem is that my tongue *presses* up against the roof of my mouth (vs. lightly touching as you're doing) and therefore pushes out against the insides of my teeth causing ridges.
I also do happen to have constant irritation/ridges on the insides of my cheeks. I guess it makes sense that they're from clenching/grinding, but my dentist believes my tongue size and the size of my lower jaw are problems for me. That doesn't mean that they are problems for you though. :)
[This message has been edited by jafc (edited 06-21-2003).]
navy2
06-21-2003, 04:39 PM
Thanks Judy!
I'm baaaaack! I was out at the UPS store sending a care package to my son in Iraq and my other son at a 6 week college program. I'm learning from all of you daily. I'm trying to get the pain under control like all of us on this board. Honestly, with all the knowledge and experience that people have on this board we could open up our own TMJ Clinic. We would probably have the best one in the country since we know what does and doesn't work. I know people would appreciate how compassionate people are on this board. I'm not concerned about the tongue problem anymore. I've been told by my PT that my tongue is big ...but, I haven't noticed the ridges on the tongue or grooves on my checks (outside right??) I have a bunch of grooves etc inside my mouth from all the poking around the PT's have been doing on my trigger points/muscles. Now if I could just find someone to fix my teeth without going through an entire production with reconstruction etc ...I think I might be alright. My disc is probably displaced forever because it's been forced to work on a messed up mouth for 18 months ...but, maybe it will settle down once the crown and other work is straightened out. I've had all kinds of treatment and this is what the conclusion is of those who have treated me: GET THE CROWN FIXED! It's ok for them to say, they don't have TMJ and I sure don't want another flare up from dental work and I'm scared the dental work will be done wrong again. Plus replacing crowns is expensive and I'll probably have to have more work because of the tooth grinding done. Plus I'm not sure how involved it is to take out a crown and put in another. Well one thing I know for sure is that I want this taken care of in the next few weeks, I want my life back!! oops! there I go spilling my heart out to the board again...sorry!
I hope everyone has a good day!
Love,
Navy (NC)
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
I'm baaaaack! I was out at the UPS store sending a care package to my son in Iraq and my other son at a 6 week college program. I'm learning from all of you daily. I'm trying to get the pain under control like all of us on this board. Honestly, with all the knowledge and experience that people have on this board we could open up our own TMJ Clinic. We would probably have the best one in the country since we know what does and doesn't work. I know people would appreciate how compassionate people are on this board. I'm not concerned about the tongue problem anymore. I've been told by my PT that my tongue is big ...but, I haven't noticed the ridges on the tongue or grooves on my checks (outside right??) I have a bunch of grooves etc inside my mouth from all the poking around the PT's have been doing on my trigger points/muscles. Now if I could just find someone to fix my teeth without going through an entire production with reconstruction etc ...I think I might be alright. My disc is probably displaced forever because it's been forced to work on a messed up mouth for 18 months ...but, maybe it will settle down once the crown and other work is straightened out. I've had all kinds of treatment and this is what the conclusion is of those who have treated me: GET THE CROWN FIXED! It's ok for them to say, they don't have TMJ and I sure don't want another flare up from dental work and I'm scared the dental work will be done wrong again. Plus replacing crowns is expensive and I'll probably have to have more work because of the tooth grinding done. Plus I'm not sure how involved it is to take out a crown and put in another. Well one thing I know for sure is that I want this taken care of in the next few weeks, I want my life back!! oops! there I go spilling my heart out to the board again...sorry!
I hope everyone has a good day!
Love,
Navy (NC)
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 04:40 PM
Navy,
Hi!! You mentioned hypermobility. Have you been checked for hypermobility of the TMJs? I recently found out (through x-ray) that the loud pop I hear on opening wide on my left side is from subluxing. All my joints pop, so I need to see a specialist...I may have somewhat hypermobile joints all over. My dentist says when I open wide the x-ray shows that my condyle actually comes out of joint--the ligament is too loose to hold it in correctly. I have been doing some exercises for it, but I don't think it is helping that much. My other option would be prolotherapy or surgery to shorten/tighten the ligament and I don't want any of that!! I also have the clicking that can vary--and now some clicking on the right as well.
I don't know if this is true, but my TMJD dentist said that if I had a totally dislocated disc I would have limited opening. He said you would have to. (Of course, this doesn't address those with no disc left--ones that have disintegrated.
Take care of yourself,
TC
Just saw your other post. The ridges/scars are on the inside of the cheek and run horizontally.
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-21-2003).]
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
Hi!! You mentioned hypermobility. Have you been checked for hypermobility of the TMJs? I recently found out (through x-ray) that the loud pop I hear on opening wide on my left side is from subluxing. All my joints pop, so I need to see a specialist...I may have somewhat hypermobile joints all over. My dentist says when I open wide the x-ray shows that my condyle actually comes out of joint--the ligament is too loose to hold it in correctly. I have been doing some exercises for it, but I don't think it is helping that much. My other option would be prolotherapy or surgery to shorten/tighten the ligament and I don't want any of that!! I also have the clicking that can vary--and now some clicking on the right as well.
I don't know if this is true, but my TMJD dentist said that if I had a totally dislocated disc I would have limited opening. He said you would have to. (Of course, this doesn't address those with no disc left--ones that have disintegrated.
Take care of yourself,
TC
Just saw your other post. The ridges/scars are on the inside of the cheek and run horizontally.
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-21-2003).]
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 04:46 PM
Judy,
How are you doing today? When you say you push up on the roof of your mouth with your tongue--against your teeth..are the ridges on the tip of your tongue? Mine are on the sides--like they are on my cheeks.
Take care,
TC
How are you doing today? When you say you push up on the roof of your mouth with your tongue--against your teeth..are the ridges on the tip of your tongue? Mine are on the sides--like they are on my cheeks.
Take care,
TC
navy2
06-21-2003, 04:54 PM
Thanks for the info TC!
So maybe my left tmj isn't totally displaced? My opening is within the range it should be. I've just been worried that a displaced disc could get steadily worse, although some people live their whole lives with no problems. I have some hypermobility in my neck that started several months ago. I hear a lot of cracking going on (x-rays show no arthritis). I've been told I need to do strengthening exercises. I have lots of mobility and range of motion in my neck from chiropratic, but, I need to strengthen too. A lot of my neck noise started when my TMJ flared up. I'm not in pain today and I'm trying to relax and not open my mouth real wide. I'm hoping an MRI won't show a whole lot wrong and I can just be one of those people that has a displaced disc, no pain, and someone can put my bite back together. I'm leary of the specialists that will want to do jaw surgery and give me that perfect Class I that most of us mere mortals do not have. Anyway TC, your little one sounds darling. I remember mine at that age ...treasure your times together. They grow up so fast.
Hugs!
Navy (getting less NC today)
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
So maybe my left tmj isn't totally displaced? My opening is within the range it should be. I've just been worried that a displaced disc could get steadily worse, although some people live their whole lives with no problems. I have some hypermobility in my neck that started several months ago. I hear a lot of cracking going on (x-rays show no arthritis). I've been told I need to do strengthening exercises. I have lots of mobility and range of motion in my neck from chiropratic, but, I need to strengthen too. A lot of my neck noise started when my TMJ flared up. I'm not in pain today and I'm trying to relax and not open my mouth real wide. I'm hoping an MRI won't show a whole lot wrong and I can just be one of those people that has a displaced disc, no pain, and someone can put my bite back together. I'm leary of the specialists that will want to do jaw surgery and give me that perfect Class I that most of us mere mortals do not have. Anyway TC, your little one sounds darling. I remember mine at that age ...treasure your times together. They grow up so fast.
Hugs!
Navy (getting less NC today)
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-21-2003).]
navy2
06-21-2003, 05:14 PM
Hi Arleen!
I hope you are feeling better today. Hugs!! Am I on your good side yet?? hugs again!! Sooooo
did you ship my money tree to Georgia yet??? The TMJ specialists are patiently waiting outside for your limo to arrive. They are holding the MRI machine, my new crown, and splint hostage until the tree gets here. So, does it grow more money all the time, or just change? (my kids are used to the kind that grow big bills!) Hey, I have a few Navy buddies that might be able to arrange a military mission or two to accomodate you. AWOL you say? Heck I worked for the Deserter Apprehension Program out of DC for years ....I know how to track em and bring em back dead or alive (although a dead money tree may not be a good thing)! Disguised as giraffes you say? I have some cammies that might blend in too!!
Let me know what you need us to do ...We are ready to serve!
Don't worry ...Be Happy!
Hugs from sunny Georgia!
Navy
I hope you are feeling better today. Hugs!! Am I on your good side yet?? hugs again!! Sooooo
did you ship my money tree to Georgia yet??? The TMJ specialists are patiently waiting outside for your limo to arrive. They are holding the MRI machine, my new crown, and splint hostage until the tree gets here. So, does it grow more money all the time, or just change? (my kids are used to the kind that grow big bills!) Hey, I have a few Navy buddies that might be able to arrange a military mission or two to accomodate you. AWOL you say? Heck I worked for the Deserter Apprehension Program out of DC for years ....I know how to track em and bring em back dead or alive (although a dead money tree may not be a good thing)! Disguised as giraffes you say? I have some cammies that might blend in too!!
Let me know what you need us to do ...We are ready to serve!
Don't worry ...Be Happy!
Hugs from sunny Georgia!
Navy
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 05:24 PM
Navy,
You are so funny. I also have a lot of crackling in my neck. I knew my neck popped, and hurt some when I turned it a certain way, but until the TMJ stuff, I didn't hear all the sandy, crackling sounds. Now I do..lucky me!!!! I know I need to get that checked out soon--and I will, but you know, sometimes ignorance is bliss!! You know, I wondered if getting your jaw adjusted could cause your disc to be displaced. I guess anything is possible. I have also wondered about those who get the discs replaced surgically--if they come out again (in just the right way) could they become permanently displaced too---when before they were possibly still reducing. I'm not contemplating surgery--don't worry. Just curious.
Awhile back I posted about someone I met whose surgeon just pushed her discs as far forward as possible and left them there. I thought this was strange. She said her OS said replacing the discs didn't usually work for him, so this is what he does instead. It is a strange world we live in!!
Glad you are having a good day,
TC
You are so funny. I also have a lot of crackling in my neck. I knew my neck popped, and hurt some when I turned it a certain way, but until the TMJ stuff, I didn't hear all the sandy, crackling sounds. Now I do..lucky me!!!! I know I need to get that checked out soon--and I will, but you know, sometimes ignorance is bliss!! You know, I wondered if getting your jaw adjusted could cause your disc to be displaced. I guess anything is possible. I have also wondered about those who get the discs replaced surgically--if they come out again (in just the right way) could they become permanently displaced too---when before they were possibly still reducing. I'm not contemplating surgery--don't worry. Just curious.
Awhile back I posted about someone I met whose surgeon just pushed her discs as far forward as possible and left them there. I thought this was strange. She said her OS said replacing the discs didn't usually work for him, so this is what he does instead. It is a strange world we live in!!
Glad you are having a good day,
TC
navy2
06-21-2003, 06:35 PM
Hi TC!
You mentioned discs reducing. What does that mean? Are they going back or what? You know I worried months ago about the jaw adjustment. I had two of them. Honestly, I don't know if that has anything to do with my clicking or not. At the time I was in so much pain and spasm that I would have tried anything. I trust my chiropractor and would like to think that he knows what he's doing. He taught at Life University for years and has written articles in medical journals, etc. He is a very intelligent man, with a lot of common sense. Sometimes I just bounce things off of him that other doctors have said to me. He keeps me grounded. I'm soooo glad I didn't jump into neck surgery 8 years ago and met my chiropractor instead. I'm doing wonderfully now with my neck and back..except for the crackling which I was told could be air bubbles in the joints or hypermobility which is supposed to go away with the strengthening exercises. One thing I know is that my body is always changing. This months problem will probably change next month ...such is the nature of TMJ and hysterectomy. My Mom turns 80 in August. She said that the things that bothered her in her younger years (she still considers me the baby ..ha ha), don't bother her at all anymore. So maybe there is hope for all of us. All the literature I've read says TMJ is more common in women between 20 and 50. Well that leaves me with 1 year and 10 months to go. That's all I'm giving this darn TMJ ...of course we should all find relief before then. I hope so. I know that even though I'm sick and tired of going to doctors and TMJ treatments, I really need to get that MRI done. I wonder if Dr. Benoit orders them. HEY out there! If any of you fellow Atlantans have been to Dr. Benoit can you tell me what he does during the first visit? Thanks! Well TC, I better go and join the family. I'm sure they are hungry (they always are!)
Bye for now!
Navy
You mentioned discs reducing. What does that mean? Are they going back or what? You know I worried months ago about the jaw adjustment. I had two of them. Honestly, I don't know if that has anything to do with my clicking or not. At the time I was in so much pain and spasm that I would have tried anything. I trust my chiropractor and would like to think that he knows what he's doing. He taught at Life University for years and has written articles in medical journals, etc. He is a very intelligent man, with a lot of common sense. Sometimes I just bounce things off of him that other doctors have said to me. He keeps me grounded. I'm soooo glad I didn't jump into neck surgery 8 years ago and met my chiropractor instead. I'm doing wonderfully now with my neck and back..except for the crackling which I was told could be air bubbles in the joints or hypermobility which is supposed to go away with the strengthening exercises. One thing I know is that my body is always changing. This months problem will probably change next month ...such is the nature of TMJ and hysterectomy. My Mom turns 80 in August. She said that the things that bothered her in her younger years (she still considers me the baby ..ha ha), don't bother her at all anymore. So maybe there is hope for all of us. All the literature I've read says TMJ is more common in women between 20 and 50. Well that leaves me with 1 year and 10 months to go. That's all I'm giving this darn TMJ ...of course we should all find relief before then. I hope so. I know that even though I'm sick and tired of going to doctors and TMJ treatments, I really need to get that MRI done. I wonder if Dr. Benoit orders them. HEY out there! If any of you fellow Atlantans have been to Dr. Benoit can you tell me what he does during the first visit? Thanks! Well TC, I better go and join the family. I'm sure they are hungry (they always are!)
Bye for now!
Navy
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 07:02 PM
Navy,
Reducing does mean moving back into place. Apparently, many discs are out of place and at some point in opening, the condyle pops back onto the disc..only problem, in closing again it pops back off. I'm assuming this is why I have scar tissue and inflammation (at least my dentist thinks I have this). Do you have the pop when you are opened pretty wide, and then you are able to open a little bit further? This is what mine does and I am subluxing. That doesn't necessarily mean you are, though. I understand people can have benign clicks where everything is fine. Mine seems to click/pop/clunk on opening and closing--sometimes the clicking (especially in my right joint) is very hard to hear (I've noticed it when I happen to be wearing earplugs). Other times when I close my left side really clunks--sounds (and feels) to me like it is moving over scar tissue or something (maybe my disc). Who knows if there will be anything left of that poor little piece of cartilage soon!?!
I'm glad you have a good Chiro. I have always been hesitant to see one, but many on here have had good experiences with theirs. I would like to see an Osteopath first, though.
I have also read that about women 20-50. I have hope that it gets better with age (I guess because of hormones), but some are 50+ on this board and still suffering. I figure maybe they mean most women START searching for help between those ages. I guess many don't get TMJD for the first time after age 50.
Feed those children!! Have a good evening. I need to check on my husband soon. Did you read my post about what happened to him? It's under one of the two that Arleen, Diane, Cheryl and I frequent.
Take care,
TC
Reducing does mean moving back into place. Apparently, many discs are out of place and at some point in opening, the condyle pops back onto the disc..only problem, in closing again it pops back off. I'm assuming this is why I have scar tissue and inflammation (at least my dentist thinks I have this). Do you have the pop when you are opened pretty wide, and then you are able to open a little bit further? This is what mine does and I am subluxing. That doesn't necessarily mean you are, though. I understand people can have benign clicks where everything is fine. Mine seems to click/pop/clunk on opening and closing--sometimes the clicking (especially in my right joint) is very hard to hear (I've noticed it when I happen to be wearing earplugs). Other times when I close my left side really clunks--sounds (and feels) to me like it is moving over scar tissue or something (maybe my disc). Who knows if there will be anything left of that poor little piece of cartilage soon!?!
I'm glad you have a good Chiro. I have always been hesitant to see one, but many on here have had good experiences with theirs. I would like to see an Osteopath first, though.
I have also read that about women 20-50. I have hope that it gets better with age (I guess because of hormones), but some are 50+ on this board and still suffering. I figure maybe they mean most women START searching for help between those ages. I guess many don't get TMJD for the first time after age 50.
Feed those children!! Have a good evening. I need to check on my husband soon. Did you read my post about what happened to him? It's under one of the two that Arleen, Diane, Cheryl and I frequent.
Take care,
TC
DianeTMJ
06-21-2003, 08:52 PM
Hi Judy!
Oh wow! Your son is in Iraq? Thank him from the bottom of our hearts for all that he is doing, wanting to serve our country and all. We believe in supporting our troops, at home or over seas. We have a AFB here and some of the families come up here and some are getting ready to go overseas and we told the spouses that live on our side of the mountain if they need anything, day or night, all they have to do is call. I think they think we are nuts, but we are sincere about it!
Okay, now I will go read everything... I just wanted to say that real quick.
Later
Diane
Oh wow! Your son is in Iraq? Thank him from the bottom of our hearts for all that he is doing, wanting to serve our country and all. We believe in supporting our troops, at home or over seas. We have a AFB here and some of the families come up here and some are getting ready to go overseas and we told the spouses that live on our side of the mountain if they need anything, day or night, all they have to do is call. I think they think we are nuts, but we are sincere about it!
Okay, now I will go read everything... I just wanted to say that real quick.
Later
Diane
navy2
06-21-2003, 09:00 PM
Hi TC!
That's so sad about your husband. I agree, he should at least go to a doctor, clinic, emergency room, somewhere and have the incident documented as soon as possible for many reasons. Besides it's important that he knows everything is all right and he didn=t fracture his jaw or something. If it was done at work, they should pay his medical bills. He may even have a claim. I worked for the JAG in one of my former lives and I am familiar with injury claims and workman's comp ...so, how soon are you taking him to the ER? I know, the mother is coming out in me again ..ha ha
I hope you are feeling better today. Maybe you do need an adjustment on your splint. I haven't been wearing my night guard at night ...just sometimes during the day, which is an effort because I'm a gagger. The nights are getting better though. I no longer feel like my whole jaw is moving when I turn in my sleep. I still get a pop when I open my mouth first thing in the morning, I don't know what causes that. This morning it was not as bad as usual, but, I still popped a little on the right side, Is that muscles or what? At least now, I have a little more control over my jaw, but, it still isn't like it was before this all happened. I hate being out and talking to someone and then all of a sudden your jaw pops or does some other weird thing. It just freaks me out becuase I'm still not used to it. TMJ can stand for too many jiggles with my jaw,
My jaw clicks on the left upper area where the tmj is on the left side. I can feel the pop with my finger and hear the click. It only feels like it does this about half way through opening and then stops as I complete opening my jaw. I don't notice anything after that and I don't beleueve that I'm opening further than the 3 fingers test amount. Lately it feels like a burning, aching pinch for a short while afterwards that I never noticed before. When I do my jaw exercises and concentrate I can find an area where i can come straight down and there is no clicking. I'm thinking that's where my jaw used to open and close before the bad dental work that makes my jaw shift to the right in order to close my teeth completely. I think it's my jaw trying to accomodate closing with the new bite that is causing the disc to click and maybe dislocate. All I know is that I did not click or anything before the dental work, At least now my jaw is moving up and down instead of deviating to the left (that took months of jaw exercises and strengthening). I think I better stop checking to see if I click and messing with things, I am starting to ache. Thank goodness my regular PT will be back from Washington DC on Monday, I can't wait for a treatment. Besides, I want to tell her what the doctors have been saying. She is really knowledgeable about TMJ...she has had it herself and really knows how to keep it under control. Well, I better go check on the family again!
Talk to you soon my friend!
Navy
That's so sad about your husband. I agree, he should at least go to a doctor, clinic, emergency room, somewhere and have the incident documented as soon as possible for many reasons. Besides it's important that he knows everything is all right and he didn=t fracture his jaw or something. If it was done at work, they should pay his medical bills. He may even have a claim. I worked for the JAG in one of my former lives and I am familiar with injury claims and workman's comp ...so, how soon are you taking him to the ER? I know, the mother is coming out in me again ..ha ha
I hope you are feeling better today. Maybe you do need an adjustment on your splint. I haven't been wearing my night guard at night ...just sometimes during the day, which is an effort because I'm a gagger. The nights are getting better though. I no longer feel like my whole jaw is moving when I turn in my sleep. I still get a pop when I open my mouth first thing in the morning, I don't know what causes that. This morning it was not as bad as usual, but, I still popped a little on the right side, Is that muscles or what? At least now, I have a little more control over my jaw, but, it still isn't like it was before this all happened. I hate being out and talking to someone and then all of a sudden your jaw pops or does some other weird thing. It just freaks me out becuase I'm still not used to it. TMJ can stand for too many jiggles with my jaw,
My jaw clicks on the left upper area where the tmj is on the left side. I can feel the pop with my finger and hear the click. It only feels like it does this about half way through opening and then stops as I complete opening my jaw. I don't notice anything after that and I don't beleueve that I'm opening further than the 3 fingers test amount. Lately it feels like a burning, aching pinch for a short while afterwards that I never noticed before. When I do my jaw exercises and concentrate I can find an area where i can come straight down and there is no clicking. I'm thinking that's where my jaw used to open and close before the bad dental work that makes my jaw shift to the right in order to close my teeth completely. I think it's my jaw trying to accomodate closing with the new bite that is causing the disc to click and maybe dislocate. All I know is that I did not click or anything before the dental work, At least now my jaw is moving up and down instead of deviating to the left (that took months of jaw exercises and strengthening). I think I better stop checking to see if I click and messing with things, I am starting to ache. Thank goodness my regular PT will be back from Washington DC on Monday, I can't wait for a treatment. Besides, I want to tell her what the doctors have been saying. She is really knowledgeable about TMJ...she has had it herself and really knows how to keep it under control. Well, I better go check on the family again!
Talk to you soon my friend!
Navy
DianeTMJ
06-21-2003, 09:15 PM
Hi Again!
We have to leave for town, I want to respond to a couple of your comments, I didn't want you think I was forgetting, Please TC, your husband really needs to get his injury documented. Workers Compensation was my "corporate life" too. He needs to do that for himself, otherwise, any future problems with injury would come straight out of your pocket and any loss of pay. If you need help with the laws, I know them like the back of my hand. Your state use to be one of my states too.
Hugs everyone! We are off!
Later
DIane
[This message has been edited by DianeTMJ (edited 10-28-2003).]
We have to leave for town, I want to respond to a couple of your comments, I didn't want you think I was forgetting, Please TC, your husband really needs to get his injury documented. Workers Compensation was my "corporate life" too. He needs to do that for himself, otherwise, any future problems with injury would come straight out of your pocket and any loss of pay. If you need help with the laws, I know them like the back of my hand. Your state use to be one of my states too.
Hugs everyone! We are off!
Later
DIane
[This message has been edited by DianeTMJ (edited 10-28-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 09:32 PM
Hey ladies!!
Diane,
Hi! Hope you are doing well today.
Navy,
I have the same problem with popping more in the morning. It seems like as soon as I get up both sides just have to pop. I guess it has something to do with the position while I am sleeping. I do the very same thing with "checking" to see if I am clicking. I open my mouth WAY more than I used to before all this. Without the splint I tried not to open too wide or too much...now I want to see if this splint is working!! So far, don't know. When I do the stretches (holding open) my dentist prescribed, my right TMJ is starting to get a little uncomfortable. I'll tell him, but he'll probably say it's nothing again. If it gets worse I will call him before my scheduled appt.
Take care you two,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
Diane,
Hi! Hope you are doing well today.
Navy,
I have the same problem with popping more in the morning. It seems like as soon as I get up both sides just have to pop. I guess it has something to do with the position while I am sleeping. I do the very same thing with "checking" to see if I am clicking. I open my mouth WAY more than I used to before all this. Without the splint I tried not to open too wide or too much...now I want to see if this splint is working!! So far, don't know. When I do the stretches (holding open) my dentist prescribed, my right TMJ is starting to get a little uncomfortable. I'll tell him, but he'll probably say it's nothing again. If it gets worse I will call him before my scheduled appt.
Take care you two,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
navy2
06-21-2003, 10:00 PM
Hi Diane!
I'm not sure if Judy has a son in Iraq ...but, it was my post I think you read. Yes, my son Robert has been in Iraq since March. We have only received 3 letters from him (one came today!) because his free mail comes and goes by boat. He says he might be able to call home in the next few weeks because they might get some phone lines. I hope he's home for the holiday's. He turned 22 this month and spent his birthday serving his country in Iraq. The Saddam sympathizers are a concern right now. That's some bounty he put out on our servicemen and women. We are a military family and understand about war. We have many active duty military in our family and many that are vets or retired, etc...BUT, it is soooooooooo different when it is your own son. I can't wait for him to come home! Hopefully, I'll have this jaw problem under control when he does. I think my husband for the first time today is really frustrated because he hates to see me in pain. It's just not something you can take a pill for and your cured. I'm going to follow the advice of Doctor Padolsky's website tonight and take a long shower and sip some nice herbal tea. Relaxation is supposed to help this. Your town sounds very patriotic and caring. The military families in your area are very fortunate. Soooo what treats do you have in store for this weekend, Watch out starving woman with a straw!! Goooo Diane!
TC ....You and I have to stop worrying about our tmj discs. We both need to have MRI's done of the joints and get a definate diagnosis. I don't think our joints are going to wear out (at least I have to stop worrying about it) and from what my chiropractor said today there is something else between the disc and the joint ....I forgot what he said exactly (probably because I've been to so many doctors and have gotten so much information), but, he didn't think it was a concern if we are clicking and still can open our jaws. The main thing we have to do is get out of pain. I wish you could get to a Chiropractor. I think one could help you with your neck and some of your other concerns. Is the dentist that's doing your splint the only person you see for your tmj? Did you have treatment before? I'm trying to eat something as I'm talking to you and my joint is clicking in and out, that's really creapy. I'm hoping with treatment from a tmj specialist, an mri, and then fixing my dental work, that will all calm down. I'm also wondering if all the time I read reading about tmj lately and then going to that doctor who said she saw something wrong on my pano has subconsciously made me believe that my joint now hurts when I click. You know sometimes ignorance is bliss!! ha ...but, on the other side of the coin TC, you and I have similar tmj problems and until we get the diagnostic tests done that actually show what's going on with the cartilage and soft tissue of our tmj's, we are going to be guessing and worrying ourselves to death. I know that even if I get a splint, the pain stops and I get the dental work ..I am still always going to be focusing on what's going on in my tmj joints. Especially after what that one doctor told me. Honestly, I was a mentally sound woman before that doctor started worrying me about all the things that could go wrong with the tmj joint. If it's benign clicking, muscular, dislocated disc, or something else, I want to know so that I can get it treated properly (or not at all) and move on with my life. By the way, I've had several MRI's done on my back and neck. I don't think there is a wrong way to do them and usually they are done at a facility that a radiologist reads the report and then you and your doctor can get a copy. I usually get my own copy of the report and x-rays and bring them to the various doctors I am seeing. The one question I do have, is are people on the board getting the straight MRI or are they getting the one with the contrast. I wasn't too thrilled about getting the one with the contrast. I heard they have to give you a shot in your tmj to do that. That doesn't sound fun, When I had my cat scans done for something else last month, they did it with contrast, but, that was with an IV, which for me is a whole lot easier than a shot in the face. I'm not a fan of IV's either ...I could never be a junky, needles make me feel ill ...lol
Well I need to take my son and his friend down to the Museum Depot for the town festival and movie they are having tonight. They want to get to the rides early. It's nice that we only live 3 blocks from there. They are putting up a giant movie screen and showing Ice Age for the kids too. We have a nice town.
Take care TC & Diane
Navy
I'm not sure if Judy has a son in Iraq ...but, it was my post I think you read. Yes, my son Robert has been in Iraq since March. We have only received 3 letters from him (one came today!) because his free mail comes and goes by boat. He says he might be able to call home in the next few weeks because they might get some phone lines. I hope he's home for the holiday's. He turned 22 this month and spent his birthday serving his country in Iraq. The Saddam sympathizers are a concern right now. That's some bounty he put out on our servicemen and women. We are a military family and understand about war. We have many active duty military in our family and many that are vets or retired, etc...BUT, it is soooooooooo different when it is your own son. I can't wait for him to come home! Hopefully, I'll have this jaw problem under control when he does. I think my husband for the first time today is really frustrated because he hates to see me in pain. It's just not something you can take a pill for and your cured. I'm going to follow the advice of Doctor Padolsky's website tonight and take a long shower and sip some nice herbal tea. Relaxation is supposed to help this. Your town sounds very patriotic and caring. The military families in your area are very fortunate. Soooo what treats do you have in store for this weekend, Watch out starving woman with a straw!! Goooo Diane!
TC ....You and I have to stop worrying about our tmj discs. We both need to have MRI's done of the joints and get a definate diagnosis. I don't think our joints are going to wear out (at least I have to stop worrying about it) and from what my chiropractor said today there is something else between the disc and the joint ....I forgot what he said exactly (probably because I've been to so many doctors and have gotten so much information), but, he didn't think it was a concern if we are clicking and still can open our jaws. The main thing we have to do is get out of pain. I wish you could get to a Chiropractor. I think one could help you with your neck and some of your other concerns. Is the dentist that's doing your splint the only person you see for your tmj? Did you have treatment before? I'm trying to eat something as I'm talking to you and my joint is clicking in and out, that's really creapy. I'm hoping with treatment from a tmj specialist, an mri, and then fixing my dental work, that will all calm down. I'm also wondering if all the time I read reading about tmj lately and then going to that doctor who said she saw something wrong on my pano has subconsciously made me believe that my joint now hurts when I click. You know sometimes ignorance is bliss!! ha ...but, on the other side of the coin TC, you and I have similar tmj problems and until we get the diagnostic tests done that actually show what's going on with the cartilage and soft tissue of our tmj's, we are going to be guessing and worrying ourselves to death. I know that even if I get a splint, the pain stops and I get the dental work ..I am still always going to be focusing on what's going on in my tmj joints. Especially after what that one doctor told me. Honestly, I was a mentally sound woman before that doctor started worrying me about all the things that could go wrong with the tmj joint. If it's benign clicking, muscular, dislocated disc, or something else, I want to know so that I can get it treated properly (or not at all) and move on with my life. By the way, I've had several MRI's done on my back and neck. I don't think there is a wrong way to do them and usually they are done at a facility that a radiologist reads the report and then you and your doctor can get a copy. I usually get my own copy of the report and x-rays and bring them to the various doctors I am seeing. The one question I do have, is are people on the board getting the straight MRI or are they getting the one with the contrast. I wasn't too thrilled about getting the one with the contrast. I heard they have to give you a shot in your tmj to do that. That doesn't sound fun, When I had my cat scans done for something else last month, they did it with contrast, but, that was with an IV, which for me is a whole lot easier than a shot in the face. I'm not a fan of IV's either ...I could never be a junky, needles make me feel ill ...lol
Well I need to take my son and his friend down to the Museum Depot for the town festival and movie they are having tonight. They want to get to the rides early. It's nice that we only live 3 blocks from there. They are putting up a giant movie screen and showing Ice Age for the kids too. We have a nice town.
Take care TC & Diane
Navy
totallyconfused
06-21-2003, 11:38 PM
Navy,
It sounds like you have a very nice town. I'm sorry your son had to 'celebrate' his birthday in Iraq. My two cousins over there have been able to call once and e-mail once, I think.
I know I should just get an MRI already and quit belly-aching about it, but I think it will have to wait a little while longer. I sometimes wonder if the reason dentists don't want you to have these tests before their therapy is because they don't want you to be able to truly compare the joints before and after. I mean, if your discs were in before therapy and out after...guess what!! Also, I don't think you are subconsciously making yourself hurt.
Hope you enjoy your evening.
Take care,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
It sounds like you have a very nice town. I'm sorry your son had to 'celebrate' his birthday in Iraq. My two cousins over there have been able to call once and e-mail once, I think.
I know I should just get an MRI already and quit belly-aching about it, but I think it will have to wait a little while longer. I sometimes wonder if the reason dentists don't want you to have these tests before their therapy is because they don't want you to be able to truly compare the joints before and after. I mean, if your discs were in before therapy and out after...guess what!! Also, I don't think you are subconsciously making yourself hurt.
Hope you enjoy your evening.
Take care,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
CherylLynn24
06-21-2003, 11:59 PM
Navy,
He had an MRI of the joints, and they didn't inject anything. However, he did have to have an object between his teeth for a short time, apparently to show the joints while the mouth is open. He said that it wasn't too bad. His problem was the fact that they did 3 MRI's in a row. Head, Neck, and Joints. It was around 2 hours long. Luckily, they let me hold his hand through all of this, I think it helped knowing Mom was right there. He took Valium beforehand, but it didn't work that well. After 2 hours in there, I think that anyone would become claustrophobic! Maybe try a tranquilizer prior to the MRI if you do have problems with closed in places.
Also, instead of only taking your reports to whatever specialist that you chose, get your MRI, and take that along, too. Some like to look at these with their own eyes. That's what we've done throughout this.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
He had an MRI of the joints, and they didn't inject anything. However, he did have to have an object between his teeth for a short time, apparently to show the joints while the mouth is open. He said that it wasn't too bad. His problem was the fact that they did 3 MRI's in a row. Head, Neck, and Joints. It was around 2 hours long. Luckily, they let me hold his hand through all of this, I think it helped knowing Mom was right there. He took Valium beforehand, but it didn't work that well. After 2 hours in there, I think that anyone would become claustrophobic! Maybe try a tranquilizer prior to the MRI if you do have problems with closed in places.
Also, instead of only taking your reports to whatever specialist that you chose, get your MRI, and take that along, too. Some like to look at these with their own eyes. That's what we've done throughout this.
Take Care,
Cheryl
[This message has been edited by CherylLynn24 (edited 10-31-2003).]
DianeTMJ
06-22-2003, 12:06 AM
Hi Navy! HI TC!
Okay, the mouth exercises, TC, Arleen, Cheryl, I do know if you will remember, but when I went in for my teeth cleaning, my hygen, gave me a couple of exercies to do, pressing my tounge in different spots in my mouth and releasing...... well, I thought it odd that my nuero dentist didn't tell me this, so I waited until I saw him before doing the exercises. He said no, no, no, that it would be like taking your leg out of a cast due to injury, exercising with it and putting the cast back on. No exercises for me. Oh well. That was the most important thing I wanted to say...
TC about the hubby being hurt, well, okay, but he needs to photocopy his records and bring them home, so that he has record of them righting down. There are laws protecting employees from being fired due to filing a workers comp claim, but I am going to stop being a mother now okay, okay! I am such a parent!
Hugs to all, I hope a peaceful, painless night for all.
Diane
[This message has been edited by DianeTMJ (edited 10-28-2003).]
Okay, the mouth exercises, TC, Arleen, Cheryl, I do know if you will remember, but when I went in for my teeth cleaning, my hygen, gave me a couple of exercies to do, pressing my tounge in different spots in my mouth and releasing...... well, I thought it odd that my nuero dentist didn't tell me this, so I waited until I saw him before doing the exercises. He said no, no, no, that it would be like taking your leg out of a cast due to injury, exercising with it and putting the cast back on. No exercises for me. Oh well. That was the most important thing I wanted to say...
TC about the hubby being hurt, well, okay, but he needs to photocopy his records and bring them home, so that he has record of them righting down. There are laws protecting employees from being fired due to filing a workers comp claim, but I am going to stop being a mother now okay, okay! I am such a parent!
Hugs to all, I hope a peaceful, painless night for all.
Diane
[This message has been edited by DianeTMJ (edited 10-28-2003).]
navy2
06-22-2003, 12:17 AM
Hi TC!
Oh my gosh! I have the same thoughts as you. The specialist said I had a problem with the spacing in my joint (bone to bone), calcification, and diagnosed me with a slipped disc (I forget which type). I want to say it was anterior something but, I'm not sure, I was too busy panicking with her diagnosis. She had me thinking my jaw was going to lock up permanently unless we did this procedure whereby they put medicine in your joint, recaptured the disc and wired your mouth shut, She was throwing so many things at me I was getting ill inside. I didn't understand because my clicking wasn't painful and I had full range of motion. My other caregivers weren't concerned about the disc being displaced. Then when I told her I was in physical therapy she changed her mind about an MRI...said well maybe they captured the disc in physical theraoy ..so, she was going to do a bite study, put me in a splint for several months, and then we'd see what dental work needed to be done. All she kept saying was that my dentist should have sent me to her first. Well now I'm thinking why wouldn;t she want the MRI to know exactly what's happening with my joints. Also, my dentist and chiropractor both told me that a pano doesn't show cartillage and soft tissue damage AND I had 2 dentists and an Orthodontist look at those Pano's and no one ever mentioned the problems with my joints that she did. She has made me even more worried. I've barely eaten all week ..except yogurt, mushy stuff, and some water. No one likes to hear that their joint is going bone to bone ..wouldn't I hear some creaking or have pain with that?? Oh, and I wasn't saying that we didn't have those clicks and noises ..my gosh we all know it's real and we have a hard enough time conveying these problems to our dentists and doctors ..what I meant was ever since she scared me s I've been having painful clicking ..you know people can stress you out and cause you to feel worse. That's what I think is happening with me. I'm getting so stressed out about what she said and waiting for my dentist to call me with the results of what his ortho friend said about my x-rays ..that I'm in more pain than ever right now. Thank-you for your concern about my son in Iraq. I hope all is well with your family members there as well.
I hope you get a could nights sleep tonight. You're going to need it for tracking down Arleen and Diane. Cheryl has her mission plan and will be contacting you soon!!
Take care TC!
Hugs always!
Navy
Oh my gosh! I have the same thoughts as you. The specialist said I had a problem with the spacing in my joint (bone to bone), calcification, and diagnosed me with a slipped disc (I forget which type). I want to say it was anterior something but, I'm not sure, I was too busy panicking with her diagnosis. She had me thinking my jaw was going to lock up permanently unless we did this procedure whereby they put medicine in your joint, recaptured the disc and wired your mouth shut, She was throwing so many things at me I was getting ill inside. I didn't understand because my clicking wasn't painful and I had full range of motion. My other caregivers weren't concerned about the disc being displaced. Then when I told her I was in physical therapy she changed her mind about an MRI...said well maybe they captured the disc in physical theraoy ..so, she was going to do a bite study, put me in a splint for several months, and then we'd see what dental work needed to be done. All she kept saying was that my dentist should have sent me to her first. Well now I'm thinking why wouldn;t she want the MRI to know exactly what's happening with my joints. Also, my dentist and chiropractor both told me that a pano doesn't show cartillage and soft tissue damage AND I had 2 dentists and an Orthodontist look at those Pano's and no one ever mentioned the problems with my joints that she did. She has made me even more worried. I've barely eaten all week ..except yogurt, mushy stuff, and some water. No one likes to hear that their joint is going bone to bone ..wouldn't I hear some creaking or have pain with that?? Oh, and I wasn't saying that we didn't have those clicks and noises ..my gosh we all know it's real and we have a hard enough time conveying these problems to our dentists and doctors ..what I meant was ever since she scared me s I've been having painful clicking ..you know people can stress you out and cause you to feel worse. That's what I think is happening with me. I'm getting so stressed out about what she said and waiting for my dentist to call me with the results of what his ortho friend said about my x-rays ..that I'm in more pain than ever right now. Thank-you for your concern about my son in Iraq. I hope all is well with your family members there as well.
I hope you get a could nights sleep tonight. You're going to need it for tracking down Arleen and Diane. Cheryl has her mission plan and will be contacting you soon!!
Take care TC!
Hugs always!
Navy
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 01:16 AM
Ok, but this is the VERY LAST post tonight. Diane, LOL means laugh out loud. You guys make me do that a lot. Navy, I feel the same way you do, but try hard not to let all this stress you out. It only makes us worse. I try to tell myself not to worry so much about tomorrow..to enjoy today..because you never know for sure that you will even be here tomorrow. Then wouldn't I feel silly being so worried about what "might" happen with this jaw!!
Bye now,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
Bye now,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 10-29-2003).]
Arleen
06-22-2003, 03:47 AM
Hi Navy:
I've just gotten around to reading this post now (when I really should be in bed). The server was having problems so I couldn't access the internet till late. Just want you to know I haven't been ignoring you, and thanks for the laughs.
Wow, your son's in Iraq. He must be an exceptional young man. I hope he's home really soon.
Hi TC, and everyone: I can't really join in the conversation you're having because I'm not familiar with all the stuff you're talking about so I have nothing to add, apart from saying hello.
I really must get to bed now. I think the stress of all the money tree problems has gotten to me. So few trees, so many problems. I'm exhausted.
Pleasant dreams.
Arleen
I've just gotten around to reading this post now (when I really should be in bed). The server was having problems so I couldn't access the internet till late. Just want you to know I haven't been ignoring you, and thanks for the laughs.
Wow, your son's in Iraq. He must be an exceptional young man. I hope he's home really soon.
Hi TC, and everyone: I can't really join in the conversation you're having because I'm not familiar with all the stuff you're talking about so I have nothing to add, apart from saying hello.
I really must get to bed now. I think the stress of all the money tree problems has gotten to me. So few trees, so many problems. I'm exhausted.
Pleasant dreams.
Arleen
navy2
06-22-2003, 08:45 AM
Hi Cheryl,
I hope you all were able to sleep well last night. Thanks for the MRI info. It's been several years since I've had one. I usually just keep my eyes closed because I don't want to know what's going on. They usually talk me through it. From what I understand there are now open MTI's and also I saw an add for an MRI machine that you actually siy up in what looks like an open seat. I usually get copies of all reports and x-rays to bring to doctors. I learned to do this long ago, because sometimes the doctors want to see what's going on for themselves. I've read your posts and when you have time you need to check out your condition too. So, what happens if the bones are rubbing together? My opening is good. I'm not in excrutiating pain and I;ve never locked up. My PT says she likes the feel of my joints, they feel smooth. But, I click in one spot when opening on the left side and I can actually feel the area that's popping up. Next week when I get through going to the Cardio doctor and other tests, I need to see about getting an MRI and getting in to see Dr. Benoit or someone else that is qualified in my area. I try to find someone within a reasonable drive because of my sons gymnastic training schedule. He starts competing again in October so this is an important time to train with his coaches. Surgery is not an option for me. What exactly is a the purpose of a splint for a dislocated disc/disc problems anyway?
Navy
I hope you all were able to sleep well last night. Thanks for the MRI info. It's been several years since I've had one. I usually just keep my eyes closed because I don't want to know what's going on. They usually talk me through it. From what I understand there are now open MTI's and also I saw an add for an MRI machine that you actually siy up in what looks like an open seat. I usually get copies of all reports and x-rays to bring to doctors. I learned to do this long ago, because sometimes the doctors want to see what's going on for themselves. I've read your posts and when you have time you need to check out your condition too. So, what happens if the bones are rubbing together? My opening is good. I'm not in excrutiating pain and I;ve never locked up. My PT says she likes the feel of my joints, they feel smooth. But, I click in one spot when opening on the left side and I can actually feel the area that's popping up. Next week when I get through going to the Cardio doctor and other tests, I need to see about getting an MRI and getting in to see Dr. Benoit or someone else that is qualified in my area. I try to find someone within a reasonable drive because of my sons gymnastic training schedule. He starts competing again in October so this is an important time to train with his coaches. Surgery is not an option for me. What exactly is a the purpose of a splint for a dislocated disc/disc problems anyway?
Navy
navy2
06-22-2003, 08:50 AM
Hi Diane,
LOL is computer lingo for Laughing Out Loud. There are a ton of others that people use too. Have a great day!
Navy
LOL is computer lingo for Laughing Out Loud. There are a ton of others that people use too. Have a great day!
Navy
navy2
06-22-2003, 09:15 AM
TC!
Don't worry, everything is going to be fine. Whenever I get all nervous about the creaks, pops, crackles, etc and mention it to my chiropractor he just tells me it's pretty normal stuff and normally not as bad as we imagine. You know what? A lot of time after exercises, adjustments, getting the proper rest, and taking my supplements for awhile, I feel a whole lot better. When i get stressed out and start worrying and get run down everything gets worse, This past year some of my sisters had some pretty bad health problems, not only did I have to deal with the illnesses I was trying to overcome, now I had to go through a bunch of tests to make sure I didn't have the HEREDITARY diseaseS. I was pretty much leveling out when the specialist threw me a curve last week and started talking about disc space, bone to bone, etc ....so, that put me into a depressive panic stage and this week I've not slept or ate well and now I'm back on antibiotics because I came down with an infection. I know it's because I wasn't drinking enough water, taking my medications and supplements and chilling out. Heck I might just have a slipped disc and be able to function the rest of my life fine. I would think if the disc was truly shot, I'd be in a lot of pain and my jaw would be locked. As you can see, I'm trying to make myself feel better ..LOL..Glucosamine is a good supplement to try. The arthritis foundation even put their seal on the one by Schiff. It's great for the joints, Also just staying active and keeping our weight down helps everything...especially our joints. If you have insurance I'd go to my MD and tell him what you are going through and ask him to order an MRI for you. Your peace of mind is bery important for your over all health. It's really not such a bad test. You just lay down and they take pictures. I close my eyes, and they come in and talk to me on the load speaker. I usually ask them a lot of questions about the length of time it takes so that I know it won't take forever when I am getting the MRI. I read somewhere that the worst thing we can do is to continue testing our mouths for clicking and popping. I know you and I both do this.
You and I have so much in common with our tmj problems. If you have a good chiropractor in your area, I would definately have a consulation and see what they can do for you. They are experts in the bones department and you'll be amazed what they can do for you. Well, I guess I'm being a Mom again. Heck I'm giving you advice? I need to follow it myself!
Take care!
Navy
Don't worry, everything is going to be fine. Whenever I get all nervous about the creaks, pops, crackles, etc and mention it to my chiropractor he just tells me it's pretty normal stuff and normally not as bad as we imagine. You know what? A lot of time after exercises, adjustments, getting the proper rest, and taking my supplements for awhile, I feel a whole lot better. When i get stressed out and start worrying and get run down everything gets worse, This past year some of my sisters had some pretty bad health problems, not only did I have to deal with the illnesses I was trying to overcome, now I had to go through a bunch of tests to make sure I didn't have the HEREDITARY diseaseS. I was pretty much leveling out when the specialist threw me a curve last week and started talking about disc space, bone to bone, etc ....so, that put me into a depressive panic stage and this week I've not slept or ate well and now I'm back on antibiotics because I came down with an infection. I know it's because I wasn't drinking enough water, taking my medications and supplements and chilling out. Heck I might just have a slipped disc and be able to function the rest of my life fine. I would think if the disc was truly shot, I'd be in a lot of pain and my jaw would be locked. As you can see, I'm trying to make myself feel better ..LOL..Glucosamine is a good supplement to try. The arthritis foundation even put their seal on the one by Schiff. It's great for the joints, Also just staying active and keeping our weight down helps everything...especially our joints. If you have insurance I'd go to my MD and tell him what you are going through and ask him to order an MRI for you. Your peace of mind is bery important for your over all health. It's really not such a bad test. You just lay down and they take pictures. I close my eyes, and they come in and talk to me on the load speaker. I usually ask them a lot of questions about the length of time it takes so that I know it won't take forever when I am getting the MRI. I read somewhere that the worst thing we can do is to continue testing our mouths for clicking and popping. I know you and I both do this.
You and I have so much in common with our tmj problems. If you have a good chiropractor in your area, I would definately have a consulation and see what they can do for you. They are experts in the bones department and you'll be amazed what they can do for you. Well, I guess I'm being a Mom again. Heck I'm giving you advice? I need to follow it myself!
Take care!
Navy
Cheyenne
06-22-2003, 10:06 AM
I have tinnutus for over 25years. About 6 weeks ago I too awoke with a loud ringing which lasted 4 hours. A week later it returned and hasnt stopped ringing. I feel like I going crazy.(when Im nervous I cant eat and have lost 17 pounds) The E.R. doctors stated that(I went twice)#1 Fluid in the right ear & wax in the left sinus infection. #2 Right ear fine left ear soft wax (diag.) sinus infection. My ENT doc stated right ear is fine left ear wax he took the wax out but the ringing hasnt stopped. As you stated: I can turn my head a certain way and the ringing stops for 2-3 mins. A 4th doc stated the ringing is due to a clogged station (nose). have you heard the term STATION? where is it?
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 11:08 AM
Cheyenne,
I am so sorry you are having even louder ringing. Just my level of ringing is enough!! I know that others on the board, like Cymy Sue, have gotten relief from most of their tinnitus by the correct splint therapy. I am just starting out on a splint and haven't had any improvement, yet.
I hope they are able to get this under control for you soon,
TC
I am so sorry you are having even louder ringing. Just my level of ringing is enough!! I know that others on the board, like Cymy Sue, have gotten relief from most of their tinnitus by the correct splint therapy. I am just starting out on a splint and haven't had any improvement, yet.
I hope they are able to get this under control for you soon,
TC
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 11:12 AM
Arleen and Navy,
Arleen--hello to you, too. Hope you are feeling wonderful today. Hopefully you aren't feeling "under the weather" from that liquid diet (the pink drinks with the little umbrellas). I just had to tease you. I sure hope I didn't offend you in any way. You are such a wonderful, sweet person.
Navy,--morning!! I bought some Glucosamine/Chondroitin to try, but haven't tried it yet. I keep meaning to call the company to ask them where they get their cow parts for the Chondroitin, first. Some experts say not to worry about the Chondroitin and mad cow, others say it is a very real possibility. All I know is a lot of older people in America take this stuff--hope it's safe. I've heard it sometimes helps with the popping, inflammation and pain.
Take care you two,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-22-2003).]
Arleen--hello to you, too. Hope you are feeling wonderful today. Hopefully you aren't feeling "under the weather" from that liquid diet (the pink drinks with the little umbrellas). I just had to tease you. I sure hope I didn't offend you in any way. You are such a wonderful, sweet person.
Navy,--morning!! I bought some Glucosamine/Chondroitin to try, but haven't tried it yet. I keep meaning to call the company to ask them where they get their cow parts for the Chondroitin, first. Some experts say not to worry about the Chondroitin and mad cow, others say it is a very real possibility. All I know is a lot of older people in America take this stuff--hope it's safe. I've heard it sometimes helps with the popping, inflammation and pain.
Take care you two,
TC
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-22-2003).]
navy2
06-22-2003, 12:52 PM
Hi TC!
I have not heard that about the Chondroitin. Sometimes I think the big drug companies atart things because they want people to take their drugs. There have been studies where Glucosamine has helped rebuild the cartilage and the arthritis drugs don't. I've been taking the triple strength one from Schiff which is a good product. Some companies I'm not sure of where they get their stuff. Schiff has the arthritis foundation seal on it and has a good reputation. I've had a lot of my friends say it did wonders for them. My chiropractor said he wound up cancelling his knee surgery, because it worked so much for him. The Nurse Practitioner that is in my doctors office has rheumatoid arthritis and stopped taking the arthritis medication and takes the Glucosamine/Chondroitin instead. My mailman, who has really bad knees and has had several surgeries takes it and feels like his joints feel better. There are hundreds of testimonials from arthritis sufferes that have found relief with it. I know you have to stay on it for several weeks before you start feeling any results. Then when you are feeling better, they say to keep taking it. I was also taking MSN for awhile, but, my chiropractor said that it gives you body oder if you stay on it a long time. YIKES! like I don't have enough problems! ha! I buy my Schiff vitamins at CVS, but, they also have a website I think. They have 2 or 3 to choose from. I buy the triple strength without the MSN 1500 mg. That way I only have to take 2 a day. I was doing real good taking care of myself until the scare our family had about a blood disorder and heart problems, etc. in the family. I was also having a lot of medical problems, But, recently I started back with my supplements and healthy eating (mushy, but, healthy) so, I'm hoping to start feeling better soon. My chiropractor said if I drink water (take your body weight, divide by 2 and that's the amount/ounces you need to drink a day), then take the Glucosamine, and some other supplements (many are listed on Dr. Padolsky/s website), walk and stretch I will feel a whole lot better. Exercise is supposed to help TMJ. But, not the kind whereby you are doing all kinds of crazy aerobics, etc, Walking is supposed to be the best. Apparently we need certain nutrients, etc to help our muscles, I admit when I do these things my muscles feel a lot better. TMJ seems to be something that we have to manage at home too. That page on TMJ from Dr. Padolsky (Atlanta Medical Group) is wonderful. It's a 6 week program that is supposed to help manage the pain. You may want to do a search on the web. Then when you find it click on the tmj information and the pages about exercises, nutrition, etc. I used it when I had a major flare up and got some relief. I thought it was nice that he had this page for any sufferes to use. I didn't even get this much information when I spent hundreds of dollars on consultations with specialists. By the way, I know how stubborn men can be. A few weeks ago somone dropped some really heavy gumnastics equipment on my husbands foot and I couldn't even get him to go to the doctor. He limped around, iced it, bandaged a few toes and waited to see if he was going to lose a toe nail. Men are so stubborn sometimes! He even broke a finger at work and never went to the doctor, just taped it together and never made a report. His boss knew, and didn't even care. MEN!!!! You know I'm going to take my Glucosamine/Chondroitin right now, It's supposed to help build cartilage in our joints. My TMJ joints would probably love me for it ...Although they probably love this board too because I talk less ...ROFLOL!!
Take care TC!
Navy
I have not heard that about the Chondroitin. Sometimes I think the big drug companies atart things because they want people to take their drugs. There have been studies where Glucosamine has helped rebuild the cartilage and the arthritis drugs don't. I've been taking the triple strength one from Schiff which is a good product. Some companies I'm not sure of where they get their stuff. Schiff has the arthritis foundation seal on it and has a good reputation. I've had a lot of my friends say it did wonders for them. My chiropractor said he wound up cancelling his knee surgery, because it worked so much for him. The Nurse Practitioner that is in my doctors office has rheumatoid arthritis and stopped taking the arthritis medication and takes the Glucosamine/Chondroitin instead. My mailman, who has really bad knees and has had several surgeries takes it and feels like his joints feel better. There are hundreds of testimonials from arthritis sufferes that have found relief with it. I know you have to stay on it for several weeks before you start feeling any results. Then when you are feeling better, they say to keep taking it. I was also taking MSN for awhile, but, my chiropractor said that it gives you body oder if you stay on it a long time. YIKES! like I don't have enough problems! ha! I buy my Schiff vitamins at CVS, but, they also have a website I think. They have 2 or 3 to choose from. I buy the triple strength without the MSN 1500 mg. That way I only have to take 2 a day. I was doing real good taking care of myself until the scare our family had about a blood disorder and heart problems, etc. in the family. I was also having a lot of medical problems, But, recently I started back with my supplements and healthy eating (mushy, but, healthy) so, I'm hoping to start feeling better soon. My chiropractor said if I drink water (take your body weight, divide by 2 and that's the amount/ounces you need to drink a day), then take the Glucosamine, and some other supplements (many are listed on Dr. Padolsky/s website), walk and stretch I will feel a whole lot better. Exercise is supposed to help TMJ. But, not the kind whereby you are doing all kinds of crazy aerobics, etc, Walking is supposed to be the best. Apparently we need certain nutrients, etc to help our muscles, I admit when I do these things my muscles feel a lot better. TMJ seems to be something that we have to manage at home too. That page on TMJ from Dr. Padolsky (Atlanta Medical Group) is wonderful. It's a 6 week program that is supposed to help manage the pain. You may want to do a search on the web. Then when you find it click on the tmj information and the pages about exercises, nutrition, etc. I used it when I had a major flare up and got some relief. I thought it was nice that he had this page for any sufferes to use. I didn't even get this much information when I spent hundreds of dollars on consultations with specialists. By the way, I know how stubborn men can be. A few weeks ago somone dropped some really heavy gumnastics equipment on my husbands foot and I couldn't even get him to go to the doctor. He limped around, iced it, bandaged a few toes and waited to see if he was going to lose a toe nail. Men are so stubborn sometimes! He even broke a finger at work and never went to the doctor, just taped it together and never made a report. His boss knew, and didn't even care. MEN!!!! You know I'm going to take my Glucosamine/Chondroitin right now, It's supposed to help build cartilage in our joints. My TMJ joints would probably love me for it ...Although they probably love this board too because I talk less ...ROFLOL!!
Take care TC!
Navy
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 01:18 PM
Navy,
Hi!! I have a friend who took G/C (and still does), it allowed him about 3 more years before he had to have a hip replacement. I figure it probably can't hurt--as long as the mad cow thing doesn't happen. Also, my family has a history of diabetes and so I'd have to keep an eye one that. I've heard it shouldn't make your blood sugar go up, but that it may. Have you checked out Dr. Theo's site about the G/C? I tried checking the doctor's site you recommended earlier this morning, but didn't see the actual info about the diet/supplements. I will check again.
That is funny about your husband. I guess men have to feel more macho...we don't have to worry about that, though.
Take care and have a good day,
TC
P.S. I thought it was strange that Dr. Theo used to have something on his site saying this Mad Cow craze with the Chondroitin was just bunk and couldn't happen. This is no longer there. That worries me.
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-22-2003).]
Hi!! I have a friend who took G/C (and still does), it allowed him about 3 more years before he had to have a hip replacement. I figure it probably can't hurt--as long as the mad cow thing doesn't happen. Also, my family has a history of diabetes and so I'd have to keep an eye one that. I've heard it shouldn't make your blood sugar go up, but that it may. Have you checked out Dr. Theo's site about the G/C? I tried checking the doctor's site you recommended earlier this morning, but didn't see the actual info about the diet/supplements. I will check again.
That is funny about your husband. I guess men have to feel more macho...we don't have to worry about that, though.
Take care and have a good day,
TC
P.S. I thought it was strange that Dr. Theo used to have something on his site saying this Mad Cow craze with the Chondroitin was just bunk and couldn't happen. This is no longer there. That worries me.
[This message has been edited by totallyconfused (edited 06-22-2003).]
navy2
06-22-2003, 02:48 PM
TC ...When you go to that website you have to look for the tmj plan and click on it,
Navy
Navy
navy2
06-22-2003, 02:59 PM
TC,
I just went to the Atlanta Dental Group website. When you click on the TMJ stuff ,,,scroll down to the very bottom and you'll be able to click on the tmj dysfunction page. That's where his 6 week program is. Hey, do you know what could be going on if I pop in the left tmj just by moving my lips around with my mouth shut? It's almost caused ny muscles.I'm not even opening my jaw at all and it's popping! I always pop in the same spot there. It's the same pop I get when I open. It has that burning pinching ache for a while that seems to be coming on more frequently lately. Is a splint supposed to help the displaced disc or what? If that's what I have. It does appear that's what it is because I pop and click in that same spot all the time???? I don't think anyone can hear the click but me. Does that mean anything? Both my husband and son have listened but don't hear anything. The doctor could probably hear it with the stethescope. I don't know a whole lot about splints. I'm aching in my jaw today ...BUT, we just started knocking out walls and tearing the kitchen apart so that my husband will build me more counter space and a door from the kitchen to the deck and pool. I've waited 8 years for this , sooooo I'm sure not going to mention my jaw right now. I am concerned about surgery though.
Talk to you later. I don't want him to see me on the computer!
Navy
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
I just went to the Atlanta Dental Group website. When you click on the TMJ stuff ,,,scroll down to the very bottom and you'll be able to click on the tmj dysfunction page. That's where his 6 week program is. Hey, do you know what could be going on if I pop in the left tmj just by moving my lips around with my mouth shut? It's almost caused ny muscles.I'm not even opening my jaw at all and it's popping! I always pop in the same spot there. It's the same pop I get when I open. It has that burning pinching ache for a while that seems to be coming on more frequently lately. Is a splint supposed to help the displaced disc or what? If that's what I have. It does appear that's what it is because I pop and click in that same spot all the time???? I don't think anyone can hear the click but me. Does that mean anything? Both my husband and son have listened but don't hear anything. The doctor could probably hear it with the stethescope. I don't know a whole lot about splints. I'm aching in my jaw today ...BUT, we just started knocking out walls and tearing the kitchen apart so that my husband will build me more counter space and a door from the kitchen to the deck and pool. I've waited 8 years for this , sooooo I'm sure not going to mention my jaw right now. I am concerned about surgery though.
Talk to you later. I don't want him to see me on the computer!
Navy
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 03:29 PM
Navy,
It's nice that you are having some remodeling done. Don't worry about surgery. I don't think you are anywhere near needing to worry about that right now. Some splints can reposition the jaw and are sometimes successful at recapturing the disc. Marlene's was recaptured that way. It is not always possible to recapture the disc, however. You never know for sure if it will work for you until you try. I know, that doesn't help, does it.
Diane's dentist put the tens on her trapezius and temporalis muscles too to check to see if the TMJD was causing the other problems or vice versa. Must be nice Diane!!!
Oh, I did find that finally (at the bottom of the page). I might try taking a little more Vit. C. I had been considering the Magnesium, but had read that you can get too much calcium and it can cause more problems. I doubt that I get too much, though. I noticed he didn't give an amount for the calcium, magnesium and zinc, though. Vit E. I doubt I will do that right now. I know I need to drink more water. He seems ultra conservative though, thinking you would only need 1-2 weeks with his repostioning splint.
Enjoy your day,
TC
It's nice that you are having some remodeling done. Don't worry about surgery. I don't think you are anywhere near needing to worry about that right now. Some splints can reposition the jaw and are sometimes successful at recapturing the disc. Marlene's was recaptured that way. It is not always possible to recapture the disc, however. You never know for sure if it will work for you until you try. I know, that doesn't help, does it.
Diane's dentist put the tens on her trapezius and temporalis muscles too to check to see if the TMJD was causing the other problems or vice versa. Must be nice Diane!!!
Oh, I did find that finally (at the bottom of the page). I might try taking a little more Vit. C. I had been considering the Magnesium, but had read that you can get too much calcium and it can cause more problems. I doubt that I get too much, though. I noticed he didn't give an amount for the calcium, magnesium and zinc, though. Vit E. I doubt I will do that right now. I know I need to drink more water. He seems ultra conservative though, thinking you would only need 1-2 weeks with his repostioning splint.
Enjoy your day,
TC
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 03:32 PM
Hey all,
How's your weather?? It is hot here. At 1:30 it was 92--over 50%humidity--heat index 101. We could use some of Cheryl's weather about now!!
TC
How's your weather?? It is hot here. At 1:30 it was 92--over 50%humidity--heat index 101. We could use some of Cheryl's weather about now!!
TC
jafc
06-22-2003, 03:42 PM
Hi everyone,
Hope you're having a good weekend. It's absolutely pouring here in Massachusetts and cool out too (65).
Sorry it's taken me a while to respond.
Navy, As TC pointed out, the cheek "ridges" are along the insides of my cheeks, sort of like a thick white line parallel to my closed teeth (about halfway down the cheek, I would guess.
TC, The tongue "ridges" run along side both sides of my tongue, and are shaped exactly like tooth impressions. I don't seem to have any in the front curve of my tongue.
Diane, I cannot claim credit for a son in the military. My boys are 3 1/2 and 20 months. :)
------------------
Judy
Hope you're having a good weekend. It's absolutely pouring here in Massachusetts and cool out too (65).
Sorry it's taken me a while to respond.
Navy, As TC pointed out, the cheek "ridges" are along the insides of my cheeks, sort of like a thick white line parallel to my closed teeth (about halfway down the cheek, I would guess.
TC, The tongue "ridges" run along side both sides of my tongue, and are shaped exactly like tooth impressions. I don't seem to have any in the front curve of my tongue.
Diane, I cannot claim credit for a son in the military. My boys are 3 1/2 and 20 months. :)
------------------
Judy
navy2
06-22-2003, 04:19 PM
Hi TC!
Hooray! Yes, I am getting remodeling done in my dining room, entrance, and kitchen. I'm not spending tons of money on the kitchen. My husband is very handy and he can build a house from the ground up. He saves us tons of money on home projects. I'm soooo excited about getting a door put in from the kitchen to the pool and deck and more counter space in the kitchen, My boys are always eating!!!! It will be so great when my sons have their friends over and everyone wants to come through the dining room soaking wet or muddy (depends on the season). Now they can come straight into the kitchen and take their shoes off in the entrance before they come in the house! Until now the only way out from this level to the backyard was from the living room. Well that doorway will eventually become a bookcase on the otherside of the fireplace. Where I live they are bulding new houses all the time. Our house is probably considered ancient now because it was built in 1986! But, we fell in love with the fact that it had a couple of acres and we were able to put in a swimming pool (therapy for my automobile accident injuries) and just last Summer Greg built the boys a 2 story club house, cottage, heck we still don't know what to call it. It was only supposed to be an 8x10 club house for my son and his friends to hang out in ...but, it kind of took on a life of it's own and now has everything in it but a bathroom. Greg says he's not about to build a trench through this hard Georgia clay for s septic tank and to hook up to the city water would cost a fortune. So, the boys can walk to the pool house extension and use that bathroom. My husband has put a lot of sweat equity into our house. He built the boys clubhouse inside and out for about $6,000. There are people building some not even as nice as ours charging $25,000 and more. We are doing our kitchen for a fraction of what a contractor would charge us. My husband is wonderful!
I'm glad that you said I'm not even close to needing surgery. That specialist that was finding all these things with my pano's reaLLy has me shook up. I've been waiting for my dentist to call me and tell me what that Oral surgeon friend of his said. I called Thursday (because they are closed on Friday) and the receptionist said he would be calling me that day. He never did, so, now I don't want to seem like a pest and I'm waiting for him to call. I don't know when they think surgery is necessary. But, I am very curious about Marlene's success with recapturing her disc. I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting her on the board, but, do you know much about her treatment? How long was the disc displaced? Did she have an MRI or other tests to diagnose a displaced disc before the splint and did they do tests afterwards to show that her disc was recaptured? How does all this work? I am totally clueless about splints. I thought they were to change your jaw position and bite and then you absolutely had to have crowns, bridges, braces (or in my case jaw surgery before braces). I already had beautiful dental work done by a terrific specialist in the Navy. He did permanent bridge work on both sides of my mouth that are still in excellent condition and it's been over 18 years. The prosthodontist complimented how good they still looked. So, i really don't want anyone tearing out all my dental wotk. I'd love it if they could recapture my disc, but, if they couldn't and I knew I wasn't going to have further problems ...then I would live with the popping i guess. Someone on the boards said that the popping and clicking stopped when they got the splint. How does that work if the disc is still displaced? The only reason I'm so concerned about the disc being out of place and popping and clicking is that I think it has to be doing damage every time, right? That specialist that made me uneasy said something about putting medicine or something in my tmj joint and then recepaturing the disc and then wiring my mouth shut or using a splint. Have you ever heard of that? A lot of you have gone through splint therapy or have a lot of information about the slipped disc and splints, etc. I'd appreciate hearing about your experiences. I plan on going to a TMJ specialist soon and to me knowledge is power. I don't want to go to the appointment clueless and get involved in something that may not be a good thing to do.
Thanks!
Navy
Hooray! Yes, I am getting remodeling done in my dining room, entrance, and kitchen. I'm not spending tons of money on the kitchen. My husband is very handy and he can build a house from the ground up. He saves us tons of money on home projects. I'm soooo excited about getting a door put in from the kitchen to the pool and deck and more counter space in the kitchen, My boys are always eating!!!! It will be so great when my sons have their friends over and everyone wants to come through the dining room soaking wet or muddy (depends on the season). Now they can come straight into the kitchen and take their shoes off in the entrance before they come in the house! Until now the only way out from this level to the backyard was from the living room. Well that doorway will eventually become a bookcase on the otherside of the fireplace. Where I live they are bulding new houses all the time. Our house is probably considered ancient now because it was built in 1986! But, we fell in love with the fact that it had a couple of acres and we were able to put in a swimming pool (therapy for my automobile accident injuries) and just last Summer Greg built the boys a 2 story club house, cottage, heck we still don't know what to call it. It was only supposed to be an 8x10 club house for my son and his friends to hang out in ...but, it kind of took on a life of it's own and now has everything in it but a bathroom. Greg says he's not about to build a trench through this hard Georgia clay for s septic tank and to hook up to the city water would cost a fortune. So, the boys can walk to the pool house extension and use that bathroom. My husband has put a lot of sweat equity into our house. He built the boys clubhouse inside and out for about $6,000. There are people building some not even as nice as ours charging $25,000 and more. We are doing our kitchen for a fraction of what a contractor would charge us. My husband is wonderful!
I'm glad that you said I'm not even close to needing surgery. That specialist that was finding all these things with my pano's reaLLy has me shook up. I've been waiting for my dentist to call me and tell me what that Oral surgeon friend of his said. I called Thursday (because they are closed on Friday) and the receptionist said he would be calling me that day. He never did, so, now I don't want to seem like a pest and I'm waiting for him to call. I don't know when they think surgery is necessary. But, I am very curious about Marlene's success with recapturing her disc. I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting her on the board, but, do you know much about her treatment? How long was the disc displaced? Did she have an MRI or other tests to diagnose a displaced disc before the splint and did they do tests afterwards to show that her disc was recaptured? How does all this work? I am totally clueless about splints. I thought they were to change your jaw position and bite and then you absolutely had to have crowns, bridges, braces (or in my case jaw surgery before braces). I already had beautiful dental work done by a terrific specialist in the Navy. He did permanent bridge work on both sides of my mouth that are still in excellent condition and it's been over 18 years. The prosthodontist complimented how good they still looked. So, i really don't want anyone tearing out all my dental wotk. I'd love it if they could recapture my disc, but, if they couldn't and I knew I wasn't going to have further problems ...then I would live with the popping i guess. Someone on the boards said that the popping and clicking stopped when they got the splint. How does that work if the disc is still displaced? The only reason I'm so concerned about the disc being out of place and popping and clicking is that I think it has to be doing damage every time, right? That specialist that made me uneasy said something about putting medicine or something in my tmj joint and then recepaturing the disc and then wiring my mouth shut or using a splint. Have you ever heard of that? A lot of you have gone through splint therapy or have a lot of information about the slipped disc and splints, etc. I'd appreciate hearing about your experiences. I plan on going to a TMJ specialist soon and to me knowledge is power. I don't want to go to the appointment clueless and get involved in something that may not be a good thing to do.
Thanks!
Navy
Arleen
06-22-2003, 04:21 PM
Hi TC and Navy:
Hope you're both have a wonderful day, as symptom-free as possible.
TC - you didn't offend me in the least. I had a good laugh when I read about the little umbrellas. Today I'm off to my brother and sister-in-laws for dinner. I hope little umbrellas are on the menu. Your son must be exhausted from all that digging. I hope you were able to get all that dirt out from under his nails, sweet thing. You guys have a nice day. Pull up a chair under your $ tree and pamper yourself today.
I've read about G/C helping a lot of people. My dad has arthritis and tried it. Unfortunately it didn't help him, but it affects everyone different. Same as some people have luck with splints and some don't. I really hope it works for you.
I take Co-enzyme Q-10 and Vitamin C. I've got allergies so I can't take vitamins on a regular basis. Because my teeth and gums hurt, these things are supposed to help build healthy gums and help keep connective tissue strong.
Navy, I'm sorry to hear you've been dealing with all kinds of problems (TMJD and other) in the last year. Seems one by one the people on this board are finding the right help. You will too, and then all you'll have to worry about is what to do with all the "greenery" in your backyard. Also, I can be packed for Hawaii in no time flat... :)
Have a great afternoon.
Arleen
Hope you're both have a wonderful day, as symptom-free as possible.
TC - you didn't offend me in the least. I had a good laugh when I read about the little umbrellas. Today I'm off to my brother and sister-in-laws for dinner. I hope little umbrellas are on the menu. Your son must be exhausted from all that digging. I hope you were able to get all that dirt out from under his nails, sweet thing. You guys have a nice day. Pull up a chair under your $ tree and pamper yourself today.
I've read about G/C helping a lot of people. My dad has arthritis and tried it. Unfortunately it didn't help him, but it affects everyone different. Same as some people have luck with splints and some don't. I really hope it works for you.
I take Co-enzyme Q-10 and Vitamin C. I've got allergies so I can't take vitamins on a regular basis. Because my teeth and gums hurt, these things are supposed to help build healthy gums and help keep connective tissue strong.
Navy, I'm sorry to hear you've been dealing with all kinds of problems (TMJD and other) in the last year. Seems one by one the people on this board are finding the right help. You will too, and then all you'll have to worry about is what to do with all the "greenery" in your backyard. Also, I can be packed for Hawaii in no time flat... :)
Have a great afternoon.
Arleen
navy2
06-22-2003, 04:31 PM
Thank-you Arleen!
You put a smile on my face and touched my heart. Your sense of humor is priceless! I'm beginning to feel like we will all be helped eventually. It's just that it takes so much time and money finding the right therapy. Not to mention the rude doctors with the big ego's we come across. It still amazes me that they expect you to pay all this money upfront and then they can't even be compassionate or even nice to their patients. Sometimes I feel like I'm in an assembly line. I guess that's why I like going to my PT and Chiro so much. They treat me nice!
Enjoy your dinner today and I hope there's plenty of little umbrellas on the menu!
Hawaii does sound great. Maybe we'll win the lottery and we can have a reunion of the tmj board!
I'm going off line now. I just heard a loud crash in the kitchen. I need to send in the troops!
Hugs!
Navy
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
You put a smile on my face and touched my heart. Your sense of humor is priceless! I'm beginning to feel like we will all be helped eventually. It's just that it takes so much time and money finding the right therapy. Not to mention the rude doctors with the big ego's we come across. It still amazes me that they expect you to pay all this money upfront and then they can't even be compassionate or even nice to their patients. Sometimes I feel like I'm in an assembly line. I guess that's why I like going to my PT and Chiro so much. They treat me nice!
Enjoy your dinner today and I hope there's plenty of little umbrellas on the menu!
Hawaii does sound great. Maybe we'll win the lottery and we can have a reunion of the tmj board!
I'm going off line now. I just heard a loud crash in the kitchen. I need to send in the troops!
Hugs!
Navy
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 04:48 PM
Hi everyone!!
Judy--sorry it is raining!! Your "ridges" sound like mine--don't get me worried about my tongue now!! You have two little bitty little ones don't you?
Arleen--are you planning a trip to Hawaii with all Navy's young soldiers--is there room in your suitcase for me?? Just Kidding!!--I can hear my husband now saying "Thanks a lot!!" I still don't have my tree. The police must have been having a fund-raiser or something...I'd better check into that.
Navy--your worries sound so much like mine. Many others here have the same concerns. If you click search and type in Marlene and splint you can get more info on her therapy. There is so much to tell, I can't remember everything all that well. Also, Elaine and Cymy Sue have posted quite a bit on past surgeries and why they think you shouldn't have them unless you are closed down or your disc is in tatters. You could search their previous posts also. I don't know what to tell you. I did have a friend who had her discs replaced and some type of orgnathic surgery when she was in high school. She seems to be doing well, but I understand this is the exception, not the rule. Also Jennifer on this board has had surgery for her discs twice and is doing well. Carey has just had surgery and is having a lot of pain right now. Hopefully she will feel better soon.
I hope I never need surgery and that I can get better with a splint or just by myself over time. If worse comes to worse, I will deal with it when I have to.
By the way, Navy, your husband sounds very handy...do you rent him out!?!
Talk to you all soon,
TC
Judy--sorry it is raining!! Your "ridges" sound like mine--don't get me worried about my tongue now!! You have two little bitty little ones don't you?
Arleen--are you planning a trip to Hawaii with all Navy's young soldiers--is there room in your suitcase for me?? Just Kidding!!--I can hear my husband now saying "Thanks a lot!!" I still don't have my tree. The police must have been having a fund-raiser or something...I'd better check into that.
Navy--your worries sound so much like mine. Many others here have the same concerns. If you click search and type in Marlene and splint you can get more info on her therapy. There is so much to tell, I can't remember everything all that well. Also, Elaine and Cymy Sue have posted quite a bit on past surgeries and why they think you shouldn't have them unless you are closed down or your disc is in tatters. You could search their previous posts also. I don't know what to tell you. I did have a friend who had her discs replaced and some type of orgnathic surgery when she was in high school. She seems to be doing well, but I understand this is the exception, not the rule. Also Jennifer on this board has had surgery for her discs twice and is doing well. Carey has just had surgery and is having a lot of pain right now. Hopefully she will feel better soon.
I hope I never need surgery and that I can get better with a splint or just by myself over time. If worse comes to worse, I will deal with it when I have to.
By the way, Navy, your husband sounds very handy...do you rent him out!?!
Talk to you all soon,
TC
navy2
06-22-2003, 04:56 PM
TC!
I went to Dr. Theo's website and he has an article about doctors on there. He says medicine is constantly changing and actually says that it may be malpractice in the future for doctors to give arthritis patients anti-inflamatory drugs before Glucosamine and Choindroitin! Just for your info. I'm going back to read some more. Have you been to Dr. Stroop's page. He's pretty good too. You can actually put everything you are taking down and it will say whether there are interactions between your supplements and meds. etc. My chiro told me about it. Apparently the doctors don't ask about anything but prescription drugs when over the counter stuff can really interact.
Talk to you later .....Break time is over! We need to go to Lowe's
Navy
I went to Dr. Theo's website and he has an article about doctors on there. He says medicine is constantly changing and actually says that it may be malpractice in the future for doctors to give arthritis patients anti-inflamatory drugs before Glucosamine and Choindroitin! Just for your info. I'm going back to read some more. Have you been to Dr. Stroop's page. He's pretty good too. You can actually put everything you are taking down and it will say whether there are interactions between your supplements and meds. etc. My chiro told me about it. Apparently the doctors don't ask about anything but prescription drugs when over the counter stuff can really interact.
Talk to you later .....Break time is over! We need to go to Lowe's
Navy
navy2
06-22-2003, 05:07 PM
TC!
I posted before I saw your post. Nope, my husband is not for rent. We used to have neighbors and friends asking him for help all the time. My husband will help anybody, but, sometimes you just have to say enough.
I don't think my disc is in tatters. I would think my symptoms would be worse if they were. I can open my jaw, so, I think I'm not shut down. Maybe it's not as bad as I'm thinking. If I was bone to bone like the alarmist (my dentist's words) specialist said something about, I would think I would be making grinding and creaking noises instead of pops and clicks. People that have successful surgery the first time are very fortunate. I ran into someone in physical therapy that is on her 4th surgery, She wasn't an advocate of surgery and said she wouldn't have had to have the last 3 if the first doctor did it right. I realize that everyone is different. It just is something I'd like to avoid. I'm really convinced I need to see a REAL TNJ specialist now,
Navy
I posted before I saw your post. Nope, my husband is not for rent. We used to have neighbors and friends asking him for help all the time. My husband will help anybody, but, sometimes you just have to say enough.
I don't think my disc is in tatters. I would think my symptoms would be worse if they were. I can open my jaw, so, I think I'm not shut down. Maybe it's not as bad as I'm thinking. If I was bone to bone like the alarmist (my dentist's words) specialist said something about, I would think I would be making grinding and creaking noises instead of pops and clicks. People that have successful surgery the first time are very fortunate. I ran into someone in physical therapy that is on her 4th surgery, She wasn't an advocate of surgery and said she wouldn't have had to have the last 3 if the first doctor did it right. I realize that everyone is different. It just is something I'd like to avoid. I'm really convinced I need to see a REAL TNJ specialist now,
Navy
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 06:07 PM
Navy,
I couldn't find the page for Dr. Stroop. All I could find was info on the Stroop Effect. What would I type in google to find it?
Bye now,
TC
I couldn't find the page for Dr. Stroop. All I could find was info on the Stroop Effect. What would I type in google to find it?
Bye now,
TC
navy2
06-22-2003, 07:38 PM
Hi TC!
I went searching too and couldn't find it. I just called my chiro at home and left a message to call me with the website address. Like I said, we've become family friends. I'm really fortunate because they have me on a monthly plan and I can go anytime. Otherwise I could never afford it. Military insurance doesn't pay for chiropractic. Some day maybe! Our primarly insurance only allows 20 visits combined of PT and Chiro ...but, TMJ is covered seperately for med and dental. Anyway, I'm not even sure if I spelled the name right. I know one time my chiro said that the drug companies were complaining about the website because it was showing the interactions between prescribed medications and over the counter things people were taking. My chiro has put info in for patients and found all sorts of interactions that the doctors weren't even aware of. Even the pharmacists don't ask you about all the things you are taking. They will check interactions of what they have filled though, but, that's not the same. I think it's pure irresponsibility. When you have TMJ, it's nice to know if that's the problem, or is it the medication. I've had reactions to meds that caused all sorts of symptoms including the ones that I got when my TMJ flared up. My husband always kids about the commercials on for the drug companies. Oh take this and that and we will fix that ...but, then you are going to have a million other things go wrong with you! My doctor over looked my GGT levels for years and just didn't bother to do liver bloodwork and every med I was on affected the liver. Needless to say I've weaned myself off those meds. Now I'm only taking meds if it's a life threatening illness, or I have an infection disgnosed by a culture. Of course I still think Zoloft made life wonderful ..but, it also added to a lot of the symptoms that TMJ was creating for me.
Well TC, we've totally gutted the kitchen, The water has been turned off temporarily and guess what I CAN'T COOK! YAY! So, I've been asked to make a run for some fast food. I'll talk to you later and if my chiro calls, I'll send you the info on the website.
Hugs!
Navy
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
I went searching too and couldn't find it. I just called my chiro at home and left a message to call me with the website address. Like I said, we've become family friends. I'm really fortunate because they have me on a monthly plan and I can go anytime. Otherwise I could never afford it. Military insurance doesn't pay for chiropractic. Some day maybe! Our primarly insurance only allows 20 visits combined of PT and Chiro ...but, TMJ is covered seperately for med and dental. Anyway, I'm not even sure if I spelled the name right. I know one time my chiro said that the drug companies were complaining about the website because it was showing the interactions between prescribed medications and over the counter things people were taking. My chiro has put info in for patients and found all sorts of interactions that the doctors weren't even aware of. Even the pharmacists don't ask you about all the things you are taking. They will check interactions of what they have filled though, but, that's not the same. I think it's pure irresponsibility. When you have TMJ, it's nice to know if that's the problem, or is it the medication. I've had reactions to meds that caused all sorts of symptoms including the ones that I got when my TMJ flared up. My husband always kids about the commercials on for the drug companies. Oh take this and that and we will fix that ...but, then you are going to have a million other things go wrong with you! My doctor over looked my GGT levels for years and just didn't bother to do liver bloodwork and every med I was on affected the liver. Needless to say I've weaned myself off those meds. Now I'm only taking meds if it's a life threatening illness, or I have an infection disgnosed by a culture. Of course I still think Zoloft made life wonderful ..but, it also added to a lot of the symptoms that TMJ was creating for me.
Well TC, we've totally gutted the kitchen, The water has been turned off temporarily and guess what I CAN'T COOK! YAY! So, I've been asked to make a run for some fast food. I'll talk to you later and if my chiro calls, I'll send you the info on the website.
Hugs!
Navy
[This message has been edited by navy2 (edited 06-22-2003).]
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 08:12 PM
Navy,
Just a word of caution about the website. You need to get the moderator's approval if it is not a government link. If it has any advertising you can't post it. I've learned to check with them just to be sure. It's nice that you and you Chiro are so close. Wish I had a doctor I needed to frequent that was a close family friend...maybe a massotherapist??...I'd better start making friends!!
My aunt redid her kitchen not too long ago and it was so hard for her to go without water in the kitchen. No countertops--nothing!! Hope you survive the chaos!!
Talk to you later. My DH should be awake soon and he gets grouchy if I'm on the computer too much. I'll check in before I go to bed.
TC
Just a word of caution about the website. You need to get the moderator's approval if it is not a government link. If it has any advertising you can't post it. I've learned to check with them just to be sure. It's nice that you and you Chiro are so close. Wish I had a doctor I needed to frequent that was a close family friend...maybe a massotherapist??...I'd better start making friends!!
My aunt redid her kitchen not too long ago and it was so hard for her to go without water in the kitchen. No countertops--nothing!! Hope you survive the chaos!!
Talk to you later. My DH should be awake soon and he gets grouchy if I'm on the computer too much. I'll check in before I go to bed.
TC
navy2
06-22-2003, 08:37 PM
Thanks TC!
I was aware that you can't advertise or put actual website addresses in the posts. But, I could at least give you the right name and what to put in the search when I get the info!
Thanks for the warning though. I wouldn;t want to be blocked from posting.
I'm going to call it a night on the computer.
SIGNING OFF!
Navy
I was aware that you can't advertise or put actual website addresses in the posts. But, I could at least give you the right name and what to put in the search when I get the info!
Thanks for the warning though. I wouldn;t want to be blocked from posting.
I'm going to call it a night on the computer.
SIGNING OFF!
Navy
navy2
06-22-2003, 08:47 PM
I can't believe this TC!
Just when I was getting off for the night, my Chiro called me ...Well I was really off with the name, It's Doctor Koop. I just pulled up his website. The section where you can put in your meds and over the counter stuff is on the left side.
Have a great night!
Navy
Just when I was getting off for the night, my Chiro called me ...Well I was really off with the name, It's Doctor Koop. I just pulled up his website. The section where you can put in your meds and over the counter stuff is on the left side.
Have a great night!
Navy
totallyconfused
06-22-2003, 09:14 PM
Navy,
Thank you so much for getting that name for me. I already found the site and entered what I am taking, and what I may add. Thanks a lot. I will pray tonight that your popping/clicking just goes away so you don't have to worry about it anymore. If only that would work...all of you on the board would have healthy, functioning, painfree TMJs!!
Take care,
TC
Thank you so much for getting that name for me. I already found the site and entered what I am taking, and what I may add. Thanks a lot. I will pray tonight that your popping/clicking just goes away so you don't have to worry about it anymore. If only that would work...all of you on the board would have healthy, functioning, painfree TMJs!!
Take care,
TC
navy2
06-23-2003, 07:42 AM
Thanks TC!
Dr. Koop's page is pretty interesting too! Have a great day. My regular PT is back from DC today. I can't wait to go for my treatment.
Take care!
Navy
Dr. Koop's page is pretty interesting too! Have a great day. My regular PT is back from DC today. I can't wait to go for my treatment.
Take care!
Navy
GJA
01-07-2004, 09:21 AM
Judy, how is your treatment going??
--I am also in Ma, the boston area and was considering trying a NMD for treatment. Is your dentist in Boston? ( I hope this isnt against board policy)
--Greg
[Healthboards permits mentioning a doctor's location in states or cities. But personal contact information such as email addresses, phone numbers, websites, and mailing addresses etc. are not allowed. Please read the details in the board guidelines. Thanks - Well-come Moderator]
--I am also in Ma, the boston area and was considering trying a NMD for treatment. Is your dentist in Boston? ( I hope this isnt against board policy)
--Greg
[Healthboards permits mentioning a doctor's location in states or cities. But personal contact information such as email addresses, phone numbers, websites, and mailing addresses etc. are not allowed. Please read the details in the board guidelines. Thanks - Well-come Moderator]