kingkang
04-05-2006, 03:34 PM
I just got my NTI-Tss yesterday and it is weird to wear at night. $700!!! For those of you who have worn it, have any of you had success stories on it.
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saaraah
04-06-2006, 09:50 AM
I just got my NTI-Tss yesterday and it is weird to wear at night. $700!!! For those of you who have worn it, have any of you had success stories on it.
woooo.. i think that you got ripped off! mine was only $100 CDN including the doctor's visit. it did not help me; instead, it gave me an open bite, which has not gone away after 6 years. it has caused furuther problems for me concerning other treatments i've tried. plus, i look really ugly now due to the structural/muscular changes it caused. :|
- saaraah.
woooo.. i think that you got ripped off! mine was only $100 CDN including the doctor's visit. it did not help me; instead, it gave me an open bite, which has not gone away after 6 years. it has caused furuther problems for me concerning other treatments i've tried. plus, i look really ugly now due to the structural/muscular changes it caused. :|
- saaraah.
kingkang
04-06-2006, 11:35 AM
Thanks for your post Sarah. Looks like from the posts that people who've worn it have gotten open bites. I told my specialist that I was afraid of getting an open bite and he said it'd go away during the day. I may just go to another guy if this doesn't work but apparently he's experienced in working with TMJ specialists. Also, what's CDN?
Suzq222
04-09-2006, 11:53 AM
My tmj specialist charged $450. I was told only to wear it the night before I go in for an occlusial adjustment. He said not to wear it all the time because it causes an open bite.
kingkang
04-10-2006, 10:26 AM
Thanks Suz,
Man! I did get really ripped off and my doc said that the NTI won't cause an open bite so I can wear it every night and now you're saying that your doc said not to wear it every day b/c it can cause an open bite. I"m so confused!!!!
Man! I did get really ripped off and my doc said that the NTI won't cause an open bite so I can wear it every night and now you're saying that your doc said not to wear it every day b/c it can cause an open bite. I"m so confused!!!!
saaraah
04-10-2006, 10:37 AM
Thanks for your post Sarah. Looks like from the posts that people who've worn it have gotten open bites. I told my specialist that I was afraid of getting an open bite and he said it'd go away during the day. I may just go to another guy if this doesn't work but apparently he's experienced in working with TMJ specialists. Also, what's CDN?
CDN = canadian dollars.
btw, the actual nti website states that an irreversible openbite is a known side effect.
anyway, i wish you luck. :)
CDN = canadian dollars.
btw, the actual nti website states that an irreversible openbite is a known side effect.
anyway, i wish you luck. :)
jmdombr
04-10-2006, 07:06 PM
Well I have been using my Nti for 3 years. I dont wear it every night. I alternate every day, I use a Sleep right night guard (Flat plane type) other nights. I have definetly improved over the years. No open bite either. Maybe 10 years from now i'll start to develop one, but for now its fine!
Good luck!
Some people say it does, some say it doesnt.
Good luck!
Some people say it does, some say it doesnt.
saaraah
04-11-2006, 09:00 AM
Well I have been using my Nti for 3 years. I dont wear it every night. I alternate every day, I use a Sleep right night guard (Flat plane type) other nights. I have definetly improved over the years. No open bite either. Maybe 10 years from now i'll start to develop one, but for now its fine!
Good luck!
Some people say it does, some say it doesnt.
that's great that you dont have an openbite. :) i was reading the nti's website, and it states that only 5% of patients develop an openbite.
Good luck!
Some people say it does, some say it doesnt.
that's great that you dont have an openbite. :) i was reading the nti's website, and it states that only 5% of patients develop an openbite.
jmdombr
04-11-2006, 12:24 PM
Yea, my dentist told me to just make sure I only wear it 3-4 times a week at night. So I have been alternating and sometimes i'll wear the Nti for a few nights in a row and then i'll notice a wierd feeling in my teeth all day, I can imagine it would definetly cause one if worn every night.
In the article of the Posterior open bite is says it affects patients who have drastic elemination of syptoms or who suffer from headaches. When I started wearing it it dradually got better, plus i dont suffer from Headaches, just jaw and Mayofacial pain.
So I would definetly reccomend this to anyone, just dont use it everynight!
In the article of the Posterior open bite is says it affects patients who have drastic elemination of syptoms or who suffer from headaches. When I started wearing it it dradually got better, plus i dont suffer from Headaches, just jaw and Mayofacial pain.
So I would definetly reccomend this to anyone, just dont use it everynight!
kingkang
04-11-2006, 06:36 PM
Hey jmdombr,
I've only worn the NTI twice. But both times I've worn it, the next morning I'd feel soreness in my jaw and not the TMJ joint. Specifically, the part of the jaw where it makes a "V." Is that where the weird feeling is?! That's where I feel is weird, so I'm going through the day with a sore jaw (where the "V" is?) But it seems like I don't have pain in the TMJ joint anymore as much. This whole NTI-open bite relationship thing is so confusing. Also, is the aqualizer only through the TMJ specialist?
I've only worn the NTI twice. But both times I've worn it, the next morning I'd feel soreness in my jaw and not the TMJ joint. Specifically, the part of the jaw where it makes a "V." Is that where the weird feeling is?! That's where I feel is weird, so I'm going through the day with a sore jaw (where the "V" is?) But it seems like I don't have pain in the TMJ joint anymore as much. This whole NTI-open bite relationship thing is so confusing. Also, is the aqualizer only through the TMJ specialist?
jmdombr
04-12-2006, 11:46 AM
no, you can get that from searching google and ordering yourself.
fru5trated
05-02-2006, 03:37 PM
I logged on for the heck of it to let folks know about the NTI-TSS, b/c it's worked so well for me. I've been wearing it about 4 months and my TMJ, Jaw Pain and Headaches have all improved. Since I have FMS and am doing a number of different things to address my pains, I can't say definitively that the NTI-TSS is the sole reason for the improvements. But, I do believe it's been a significant factor.
Thankfully I did a search before posting. Wow - I had no idea the device may cause bite problems or that it shouldn't be worn every night. Although this does make sense.
fyi - I pd around $400 for mine.
Thankfully I did a search before posting. Wow - I had no idea the device may cause bite problems or that it shouldn't be worn every night. Although this does make sense.
fyi - I pd around $400 for mine.
sunshine123
05-02-2006, 03:48 PM
fru5strated, do you wear your NTI every night? I've read conflicting things about whether an NTI causes an open bite. :wave:
Brent E
05-02-2006, 08:21 PM
My take on the open bite issue...
Wear the NTI every night for 6 to 8 weeks and see if it helps you. I don't think the NTI can cause an open bite in that short amount of time. If it helps you, make your decision at that time based on the relief it provides. Maybe cut back to wearing it 3 to 4 times a week. I have been told that if it does nothing after 8 weeks, it most likely will not work for you.
As for me, I would trade an open bite for clear ears any day of the week. Matter of fact, I would trade a whole lot more than that. I have been wearing an NTI every night for about 10 nights in a row now.
FYI, my wife has worn an NTI on and off for several years with no issues. I don't think she has worn it for more than a month or two in a row though. It has absolutely helped her TMJ. She highly recommends it.
Brent
Wear the NTI every night for 6 to 8 weeks and see if it helps you. I don't think the NTI can cause an open bite in that short amount of time. If it helps you, make your decision at that time based on the relief it provides. Maybe cut back to wearing it 3 to 4 times a week. I have been told that if it does nothing after 8 weeks, it most likely will not work for you.
As for me, I would trade an open bite for clear ears any day of the week. Matter of fact, I would trade a whole lot more than that. I have been wearing an NTI every night for about 10 nights in a row now.
FYI, my wife has worn an NTI on and off for several years with no issues. I don't think she has worn it for more than a month or two in a row though. It has absolutely helped her TMJ. She highly recommends it.
Brent
MaggieMay78
05-07-2006, 04:15 AM
Hey all, I just wanted to add some info about the open bite issue. i recently saw a new TMJ specialist, and he said to stay away from the NTI. He felt VERY strongly about it. This was a specialist who did a two-year residency (after dental school) in TMJ at the University of Minnesota, has been involved in extensive research about splints, etc. He works in a specialized clinic that takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating TMJ. I was very impressed by him, after already having seen several other dentists. That being said, I realize everyone has their different opinions...but I just wanted to mention what he told me.
I wore an NTI for about 7 weeks, with a few nights off here and there. I later realized it was not adjusted properly AT ALL and was causing more problems. I even e-mailed back and forth with the inventor of the NTI (Jim Boyd), and sent him some digital photos of my NTI in place. He said that many dentists don't adjust them correctly, so it's important to make sure you see someone competent. The way my NTI was adjusted, it allowed my upper left canine to come into contact with it in certain positions (it was an NTI for the bottom teeth). This can happen with an upper NTI too--a bottom canine tooth can come into contact as well...this is bad because it allows for somewhat intense clenching. If you want to find out more about adjustment information, you should look at the official NTI website's section about "fabrication and delivery."
BTW, the site does talk about bite changes...I guess it's up to the patient to weigh the risks/benefits. But like I said, I think the crucial thing (if you decide to wear one) is to make sure it's PROPERLY adjusted, because if not, it may strain the TM joints/muscles and cause additional pain.
-Meg
I wore an NTI for about 7 weeks, with a few nights off here and there. I later realized it was not adjusted properly AT ALL and was causing more problems. I even e-mailed back and forth with the inventor of the NTI (Jim Boyd), and sent him some digital photos of my NTI in place. He said that many dentists don't adjust them correctly, so it's important to make sure you see someone competent. The way my NTI was adjusted, it allowed my upper left canine to come into contact with it in certain positions (it was an NTI for the bottom teeth). This can happen with an upper NTI too--a bottom canine tooth can come into contact as well...this is bad because it allows for somewhat intense clenching. If you want to find out more about adjustment information, you should look at the official NTI website's section about "fabrication and delivery."
BTW, the site does talk about bite changes...I guess it's up to the patient to weigh the risks/benefits. But like I said, I think the crucial thing (if you decide to wear one) is to make sure it's PROPERLY adjusted, because if not, it may strain the TM joints/muscles and cause additional pain.
-Meg
arlmon18
05-07-2006, 12:19 PM
King - CDN - mean Canadian money. I also have an NTI guard, that I got a few years ago from my former dentist. I remember paying aprox. $400 - canadian money. My new dentist really wants me to get another guard. No one ever mentioned getting an open bite from it. I will ask my dentist about this when I go next week. The thing with the NTI guard, for me, is that I don't gag when it's in my mouth. The dentist told me that the new "full" night guards are made differently now, so there's less chance of gagging. Sometimes in the morning, my mouth hurts - Could it be the NTI affecting it?
MaggieMay78
05-08-2006, 12:11 AM
arlmon,
When you say your mouth hurts, do you mean the inside of your mouth, the cheek muscles around it, etc? I noticed that my cheek muscles were getting VERY fatigued when I used the NTI...it was hard for me to even talk longer than 15 minutes at a time. So...it is a possibility that the NTI is responsible... Do you wear it every night?
As for me, I used to believe that the NTI was so small that it couldn't do much harm...but like I said, if it's not adjusted properly, it can fatigue your muscles and/or strain the joints. And even if it IS adjusted properly, there are still questions surrounding the bite change issue. Not to scare you...it could be fine in your case...but just be careful!:) It's like any type of nightguard/splint...you have to do your research and just pay close attention to how you're responding to it. Good luck.
When you say your mouth hurts, do you mean the inside of your mouth, the cheek muscles around it, etc? I noticed that my cheek muscles were getting VERY fatigued when I used the NTI...it was hard for me to even talk longer than 15 minutes at a time. So...it is a possibility that the NTI is responsible... Do you wear it every night?
As for me, I used to believe that the NTI was so small that it couldn't do much harm...but like I said, if it's not adjusted properly, it can fatigue your muscles and/or strain the joints. And even if it IS adjusted properly, there are still questions surrounding the bite change issue. Not to scare you...it could be fine in your case...but just be careful!:) It's like any type of nightguard/splint...you have to do your research and just pay close attention to how you're responding to it. Good luck.
Brent E
05-08-2006, 05:47 PM
As I understand it, the NTI works specifically on muscle related TMJ, not joint-related TMJ. There is a big difference.
Also, I have noticed many doctors specializing in TMJ do not believe in the NTI. Several TMJ specialists that I have seen all advocate the use of full mount splints. They do not offer or want to discuss the NTI. It's kind of strange in fact. I'm not sure how much of a factor it plays into it. But I do know that real NTI splints are not cheap, even at cost. Thus, I believe that doctors have a much larger profit margin in generic splints. Clearly, you will find many people who have seen great relief from NTI splints. I doubt anyone would argue that point. And that's what we're all after - relief.
Maggie,
What symptoms do you have?
Also, I have noticed many doctors specializing in TMJ do not believe in the NTI. Several TMJ specialists that I have seen all advocate the use of full mount splints. They do not offer or want to discuss the NTI. It's kind of strange in fact. I'm not sure how much of a factor it plays into it. But I do know that real NTI splints are not cheap, even at cost. Thus, I believe that doctors have a much larger profit margin in generic splints. Clearly, you will find many people who have seen great relief from NTI splints. I doubt anyone would argue that point. And that's what we're all after - relief.
Maggie,
What symptoms do you have?
MaggieMay78
05-08-2006, 07:11 PM
Hi Brent,
I think I mentioned in my earlier post that I was writing back and forth with the inventor of the NTI. I told him about my disc displacements, and he simply told me that my NTI needs to be adjusted correctly. Also, in one online interview, he says that the NTI can be worn as long as the joint problem is a result of "muscular parafunction", not just arthritis (as several docs have explained to me, severe muscle spasms can eventually lead to the TMJ discs slipping out of place--I guess the ligaments that hold the discs in place become too damaged to their job). That's because clenching can definitely make the muscles go crazy and not function properly. Again, on the NTI official web site, there is a discussion about the NTI and TMJ problems. And as I mentioned before, there are also interviews with him online where he discusses this in more detail.
I think everyone has to go with what is right for them. As far as profit, yes, I believe there are some dentists who just want a quick buck. No doubt. However, in my case, I already had a flat plane splint from an oral surgeon (he made it for me about 8 months ago). When I went to see the specialist at the University of Minnesota, he didn't think I needed a new splint--he said we just need to adjust the flat plane I already have. So...I don't think profit was a motive. I lived in NYC for 4 years and saw several specialists there--as well as the oral surgeon who removed my wisdom teeth so forcefully back there, which is when my problems started. Now THAT guy was out for profit and nothing else! I think you usually have to go with your gut instinct about that...I ignored mine in that case, and ended up with lots of problems after my *expensive* extractions.
Anyway, as far as my symptoms go...I have had bad muscular spasms, particularly on the left side, for about a year now. I often get really terrible temple headaches. They started soon after some particularly difficult wisdom teeth extractions, with an oral surgeon who held my jaw wide open for about 2.5 hours and used an awful lot of force. I had an MRI last year and was told it was just a muscular problem. But then, I had one done 6 weeks ago, and was told I have internal derangement (disc displacement on both sides). An oral surgeon told me I need surgery. A lot of TMJ specialists, however, don't seem too concerned about disc displacment in itself. However, my pain really flared up about 2 months ago, right before the MRI, and I decided to try an NTI. After wearing it for a few weeks, I realized it was making my pain even worse. I know for sure that it was adjusted incorrectly, so that probably played a big role. Again, I think everyone just has to research on their own and weigh the risks/benefits of whatever treatments they're considering. It's not any different for the NTI...
-Meg
I think I mentioned in my earlier post that I was writing back and forth with the inventor of the NTI. I told him about my disc displacements, and he simply told me that my NTI needs to be adjusted correctly. Also, in one online interview, he says that the NTI can be worn as long as the joint problem is a result of "muscular parafunction", not just arthritis (as several docs have explained to me, severe muscle spasms can eventually lead to the TMJ discs slipping out of place--I guess the ligaments that hold the discs in place become too damaged to their job). That's because clenching can definitely make the muscles go crazy and not function properly. Again, on the NTI official web site, there is a discussion about the NTI and TMJ problems. And as I mentioned before, there are also interviews with him online where he discusses this in more detail.
I think everyone has to go with what is right for them. As far as profit, yes, I believe there are some dentists who just want a quick buck. No doubt. However, in my case, I already had a flat plane splint from an oral surgeon (he made it for me about 8 months ago). When I went to see the specialist at the University of Minnesota, he didn't think I needed a new splint--he said we just need to adjust the flat plane I already have. So...I don't think profit was a motive. I lived in NYC for 4 years and saw several specialists there--as well as the oral surgeon who removed my wisdom teeth so forcefully back there, which is when my problems started. Now THAT guy was out for profit and nothing else! I think you usually have to go with your gut instinct about that...I ignored mine in that case, and ended up with lots of problems after my *expensive* extractions.
Anyway, as far as my symptoms go...I have had bad muscular spasms, particularly on the left side, for about a year now. I often get really terrible temple headaches. They started soon after some particularly difficult wisdom teeth extractions, with an oral surgeon who held my jaw wide open for about 2.5 hours and used an awful lot of force. I had an MRI last year and was told it was just a muscular problem. But then, I had one done 6 weeks ago, and was told I have internal derangement (disc displacement on both sides). An oral surgeon told me I need surgery. A lot of TMJ specialists, however, don't seem too concerned about disc displacment in itself. However, my pain really flared up about 2 months ago, right before the MRI, and I decided to try an NTI. After wearing it for a few weeks, I realized it was making my pain even worse. I know for sure that it was adjusted incorrectly, so that probably played a big role. Again, I think everyone just has to research on their own and weigh the risks/benefits of whatever treatments they're considering. It's not any different for the NTI...
-Meg
Brent E
05-09-2006, 09:09 PM
Hi Meg,
I totally agree... everyone has to do their own homework and make their own decisions.
Sorry to hear about your disc issues. Seems strange that your first MRI did not catch the displacement, yet the second one did. Maybe the first doctor just missed it??? You mention your first MRI pointed to muscular problems. I didn't know an MRI could identify muscular issues. Can you actually feel your jaw pop or anything as you open, or any pain in the joints? I have been told by several specialists that TMJ can cause many problems without exhibiting any joint pain. What a mysterious disorder.
Sounds like our NTI stories are somewhat similar. I wore my NTI for a full two weeks. It was clearly making things worse. So, I have stopped wearing it for the time being. For example, since I started wearing the NTI, I have begun to experience mild ear fullness in my right ear. I have never had that before. It has always been my left ear that troubled me, still does. Does it make sense that things could get worse before they get better? I don't know.
When you mention NTI adjustment, do you mean the NTI needs adjusting because some of your teeth touch? I am wondering because my NTI is not centered on my front teeth. It is way off the right side.
Yes, my TMJ doc told me they don't get to worried about disc displacement unless it is causing problems, such as jaw locking, etc... I'm sure you have read about all the horror stories of jaw surgery. I wonder about the success stories though?
Brent
I totally agree... everyone has to do their own homework and make their own decisions.
Sorry to hear about your disc issues. Seems strange that your first MRI did not catch the displacement, yet the second one did. Maybe the first doctor just missed it??? You mention your first MRI pointed to muscular problems. I didn't know an MRI could identify muscular issues. Can you actually feel your jaw pop or anything as you open, or any pain in the joints? I have been told by several specialists that TMJ can cause many problems without exhibiting any joint pain. What a mysterious disorder.
Sounds like our NTI stories are somewhat similar. I wore my NTI for a full two weeks. It was clearly making things worse. So, I have stopped wearing it for the time being. For example, since I started wearing the NTI, I have begun to experience mild ear fullness in my right ear. I have never had that before. It has always been my left ear that troubled me, still does. Does it make sense that things could get worse before they get better? I don't know.
When you mention NTI adjustment, do you mean the NTI needs adjusting because some of your teeth touch? I am wondering because my NTI is not centered on my front teeth. It is way off the right side.
Yes, my TMJ doc told me they don't get to worried about disc displacement unless it is causing problems, such as jaw locking, etc... I'm sure you have read about all the horror stories of jaw surgery. I wonder about the success stories though?
Brent
moderator2
05-10-2006, 12:10 PM
Please read and follow the posting rules.
MaggieMay78
05-12-2006, 08:59 PM
Hi Brent, I had a long post written out to you before, but it was removed because I posted a web site link...oops!
Anyway, the NTI is not just supposed to be fitted to your teeth. The dentist is supposed to be very careful to make sure there is not too much vertical dimension (space between the top and bottom teeth, that will strain the joints & muscles)...and also, none of your canine teeth should touch the NTI at all when you move your teeth side to side. Hope that helps...
As far as ear fullness...I had that in my left ear for quite some time. On my recent MRI, it showed some fluid (inflammation) in the left joint, which was probably causing the fullness. I took Celebrex for a few weeks, and that seems to have helped. I am now taking prescription-strength naproxen for a few more weeks to further combat inflammation. At the very least, take some ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is good for fighting inflammation...or Alleve.
One more tip...make sure you're not a "tongue-thruster." In other words, make sure your tongue isn't touching your teeth when you swallow. I was told by a dentist that this somehow relates to the eustachian tube of the ear, and can cause/increase that feeling of fullness. Just a hint...
As far as my disc displacement...it is likely that it was missed on the initial MRI last year (although I don't think the displacement was as severe back then). I have been told that some radiologists lack the skills required to read MRIs of the TMJ. Dont' know if that's true...but whatever you do, make sure you have someone skilled take a look at it, and get copies of the films.
I will say, however, that the TMJ specialist I saw is not super-concerned with the positions of the discs. Mine are still reducing, and though I have limited mouth opening, I can still function at a decent level. Displaced discs are VERY common among the general population...it's just that many people dont' have symptoms other than popping, clicking, etc. One of my friends, for example, has popping that is so loud when she eats that everyone can hear it...but no pain. This kind of situation is more common that you might think. For now, I am just trying to minimize pain, and am not even thinking about surgery.
Sorry for the length of this post, but one more thing: I do have another friend that had arthroscopic surgery on one of her TMJs. She was in a car accident and broke her jaw. Her TMJ surgery was--yes--a success! However, I must add that she doesn't clench/grind her teeth at night. I have read that many surgeries fail because people keep clenching and grinding afterward. Think about it...you have a knee surgery, then start running on it right away. It never gets a chance to heal...how well are you really going to recover? I'm NOT saying this is the only reason why TMJ surgeries often fail...not by any means...but I have read that it plays a major role in the failure. So many of us are chronic clenchers and grinders...
Anyway, hope all this helps...
take care,
Meg
Anyway, the NTI is not just supposed to be fitted to your teeth. The dentist is supposed to be very careful to make sure there is not too much vertical dimension (space between the top and bottom teeth, that will strain the joints & muscles)...and also, none of your canine teeth should touch the NTI at all when you move your teeth side to side. Hope that helps...
As far as ear fullness...I had that in my left ear for quite some time. On my recent MRI, it showed some fluid (inflammation) in the left joint, which was probably causing the fullness. I took Celebrex for a few weeks, and that seems to have helped. I am now taking prescription-strength naproxen for a few more weeks to further combat inflammation. At the very least, take some ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is good for fighting inflammation...or Alleve.
One more tip...make sure you're not a "tongue-thruster." In other words, make sure your tongue isn't touching your teeth when you swallow. I was told by a dentist that this somehow relates to the eustachian tube of the ear, and can cause/increase that feeling of fullness. Just a hint...
As far as my disc displacement...it is likely that it was missed on the initial MRI last year (although I don't think the displacement was as severe back then). I have been told that some radiologists lack the skills required to read MRIs of the TMJ. Dont' know if that's true...but whatever you do, make sure you have someone skilled take a look at it, and get copies of the films.
I will say, however, that the TMJ specialist I saw is not super-concerned with the positions of the discs. Mine are still reducing, and though I have limited mouth opening, I can still function at a decent level. Displaced discs are VERY common among the general population...it's just that many people dont' have symptoms other than popping, clicking, etc. One of my friends, for example, has popping that is so loud when she eats that everyone can hear it...but no pain. This kind of situation is more common that you might think. For now, I am just trying to minimize pain, and am not even thinking about surgery.
Sorry for the length of this post, but one more thing: I do have another friend that had arthroscopic surgery on one of her TMJs. She was in a car accident and broke her jaw. Her TMJ surgery was--yes--a success! However, I must add that she doesn't clench/grind her teeth at night. I have read that many surgeries fail because people keep clenching and grinding afterward. Think about it...you have a knee surgery, then start running on it right away. It never gets a chance to heal...how well are you really going to recover? I'm NOT saying this is the only reason why TMJ surgeries often fail...not by any means...but I have read that it plays a major role in the failure. So many of us are chronic clenchers and grinders...
Anyway, hope all this helps...
take care,
Meg
arlmon18
05-17-2006, 12:43 PM
Brent - what did you mean when you said you'd rather have clear ears than an open bite? I also have an NTI guard. I notice when my jaw hurts, my ear feels blocked. I've had a problem with fluid in it, but the ENT said that's cleared up. My dentist really prefers a full mouth guard, but I tend to gag, so I don't know if I could wear one. I'm going to bring in my guard next week and let my dentist check it. Grinding teeth can cause many problems as we all know. I must get into the habit of wearing my every night, although people here have posted about wearing it 3-4 nights a week. I'll also ask about that.
MaggieMay78
05-25-2006, 03:39 AM
Brent,
I see that you live in Phoenix...I am wondering who your TMJ doc is? have you ever gone to see Dr. Joseph Cohen?
just need some help here, I live in Scottsdale...
thanks,
Meg
I see that you live in Phoenix...I am wondering who your TMJ doc is? have you ever gone to see Dr. Joseph Cohen?
just need some help here, I live in Scottsdale...
thanks,
Meg
cupcake21
05-27-2006, 10:06 AM
MaggieMay, I'm curious, did the TMJ specialist tell you if the NTI splint could change your bite after just 7 weeks nightly wearing? I'm new to this board, and have worn the NTI for about the same amount of time at night... about 7 weeks. My dentist actually made it for me for clenching and grinding several years ago, but I wore it pretty infrequently as I felt I didn't need it. Most nights, I would throw it out while sleeping, because it became uncomfortable. Well, recently, I had a bad episode of clenching and the dentist said it flared up all the nerves in my jaw, which produced stiffening and pain and many other TMJ symptoms. He recommended wearing the NTI every night. So, I wore it for 7 weeks and it hurt a lot at the joints and muscles of my cheek. It took me awhile to identify where the pain was coming from. Also, I would wake up at night or in the morning with my lower jaw pushed backward. I would have to "adjust" my mouth in the morning, so my bite didn't feel off. It almost felt like I was using only my back teeth to eat. I stopped wearing it last week and the first day after I didn't wear it I felt tons better. It's been almost a week now, and every day has gotten a bit better so far. After looking at information on the NTI website, frankly, it is concerning. Especially the diagrams that show repositioning of codylars and jaw, which from what it shows looks like it can change your bite. I went to see two dentists for more input since I stopped wearing it. One dentist, (who happens to make the NTI splint himself for his patients) told me that, NO, it couldn't change a person's bite after 7 weeks only at night, that a person would have to wear it day and night for a lot longer than that. The other dentist I saw said that although he didn't specialize in it and I would of course need to talk to a more authoritative person, that possibly it could. I then went to my orthodontist, who agreed with me that it wasn't working for me, but didn't really comment further on the NTI device. We've decided to go to a standard full mouth gaurd, despite my dentist's insistance that it won't change my bite and to keep using it.
MaggieMay78
05-28-2006, 03:39 AM
Hi cupcake, I have seen 2 TMJ specialists since I stopped wearing the NTI. I did a dumb thing--got the NTI because I thought it would solve my problems, and just went to a local dentist to get one. He had the dental assistant make it for me--BAD idea, because it wasn't adjusted properly. I believed her when she said "They're very easy to make". Well, just like any other splint , they have to be adjusted for your bite, not just fitted to your teeth. Grrrr...I'll never be that naive again!
Anyway...it took me awhile to figure out that the NTI might be making me worse, as far as making my muscles ache. My mouth opening also seems to have decreased after wearing it, though I"m not sure if the NTI is the cause. The two specialists I've seen had different opinions about NTIs. One really hated them, and said they can change your bite. however, he determined my bite really hasn't changed, because my old nightguard (that I wore for 6 months before the NTI) still fits my teeth perfectly. The 2nd specialist wasn't against them for short-term use (2-3 months), and said that 7 weeks nighttime use is unlikely to cause any significant changes. Of course, everyone is different, so it's hard to say. Bottom line, if it's not helping you, it's probably better not to wear it. You could check with another dentist to make sure it's adjusted properly if you don't want to give it up completely. But if you think it's changing your bite at all, I'd stay away.
Hope this helps...it's so hard to make the right treatment choices. Unfortunately for me, the one specialist is too far away for me to see regularly, and the other one did not impress me much. So, I will be going to see a 3rd one on June 7th at UCLA. I'll let you know what he says about NTIs.
good luck,
Meg
Anyway...it took me awhile to figure out that the NTI might be making me worse, as far as making my muscles ache. My mouth opening also seems to have decreased after wearing it, though I"m not sure if the NTI is the cause. The two specialists I've seen had different opinions about NTIs. One really hated them, and said they can change your bite. however, he determined my bite really hasn't changed, because my old nightguard (that I wore for 6 months before the NTI) still fits my teeth perfectly. The 2nd specialist wasn't against them for short-term use (2-3 months), and said that 7 weeks nighttime use is unlikely to cause any significant changes. Of course, everyone is different, so it's hard to say. Bottom line, if it's not helping you, it's probably better not to wear it. You could check with another dentist to make sure it's adjusted properly if you don't want to give it up completely. But if you think it's changing your bite at all, I'd stay away.
Hope this helps...it's so hard to make the right treatment choices. Unfortunately for me, the one specialist is too far away for me to see regularly, and the other one did not impress me much. So, I will be going to see a 3rd one on June 7th at UCLA. I'll let you know what he says about NTIs.
good luck,
Meg
cupcake21
05-28-2006, 12:35 PM
Hi Meg. It's really good to hear feedback from the specialists you saw, and a bit of a relief too. Thanks for sharing. It's amazing how many differing opinions there seem to be out there. Also, not every dentist is familiar with it. The way my dentist originally explained it to me was that it prevents your back teeth from contacting and therefore prevents damage from bruxing, unlike traditional night gaurds. But it's a pretty complex thing for being so tiny, and it's got to be fitted properly, etc.
Although it seems to have been helpful for others, I've decided not to wear it anymore and possibly try a traditional gaurd for bruxing. I've been sleeping without it almost a week now, and although my cheeks and jaw are still a bit stiff and sore, I'm feeling much better.
I hope you are feeling better and I would be very interested in your feedback from the third TMJ specialist and I'll post if I get any other info.
Good luck to you too!
-Cupcake
Although it seems to have been helpful for others, I've decided not to wear it anymore and possibly try a traditional gaurd for bruxing. I've been sleeping without it almost a week now, and although my cheeks and jaw are still a bit stiff and sore, I'm feeling much better.
I hope you are feeling better and I would be very interested in your feedback from the third TMJ specialist and I'll post if I get any other info.
Good luck to you too!
-Cupcake
MaggieMay78
05-28-2006, 10:42 PM
Hi Cupcake, sounds like you are on the right track-it may be worth it to try a full coverage splint, as long as it's adjusted correctly and allows your muscles to relax.
BTW, are your problems solely muscular, or are the joints involved too?
take care,
Meg:)
BTW, are your problems solely muscular, or are the joints involved too?
take care,
Meg:)
cupcake21
05-29-2006, 02:13 AM
Thanks for the encouragement Meg! When you mentioned a full coverage splint, were you referring to a full mouth night guard like dentists and orthos make? Any ones that you have tried that may be good?
My recent problems involve pain in mainly my right joint-the side that was injured most by this bout of extreme bruxing. Clicking, stiffness and pain in my cheek muscles too. I'm working at keeping my muscles mobile. Its like a fine dance between keeping one's muscles from freezing up and overusing and reinjuring everything. I've had lots of problems eating from the get-go. Started with only soft foods-like shakes and yogurt at first and have slowly worked up to more solid things.
Since I've starting to feel better lately, I've been more talkative. And then i realize an hour or two afterwards I should have kept it to a minimum. Part of the problem seems to be how do you know what is helping you stay mobile and how do you know what is setting you back?
How about you?
My recent problems involve pain in mainly my right joint-the side that was injured most by this bout of extreme bruxing. Clicking, stiffness and pain in my cheek muscles too. I'm working at keeping my muscles mobile. Its like a fine dance between keeping one's muscles from freezing up and overusing and reinjuring everything. I've had lots of problems eating from the get-go. Started with only soft foods-like shakes and yogurt at first and have slowly worked up to more solid things.
Since I've starting to feel better lately, I've been more talkative. And then i realize an hour or two afterwards I should have kept it to a minimum. Part of the problem seems to be how do you know what is helping you stay mobile and how do you know what is setting you back?
How about you?
MaggieMay78
05-29-2006, 06:43 AM
hi Cupcake, yes, when I said a "full coverage" splint, I was referring to the traditional splint that covers all of your teeth. Are you only going to wear it at night?
I also sometimes feel terrible after talking for too long. It's an awful feeling...I am just hoping it will improve in time. I have recently started doing a treatment called myotherapy, and it seems to be helping me. In many cases, even when a person has joint problems, most of the pain is still coming from the muscles. So, myotherapy, which works on the muscles, is helping my pain. Now I just want to get my function back...I can only open my mouth 34mm, and am hoping to get back to the 50mm opening I used to have. But for now, I will take a reduction in pain!
I am really convinced the NTI did nothing for me at all...it may have even made me worse. I'm not sure if it was that, or something else that made me worse while wearing it. I try not to think about it, because thinking about mistakes that were made just depresses me. I am just very angry that the dentist said it was OK for the dental assistant to make the NTI, that it was so easy...I wonder how many other people they have done that to! I am thinking of complaining and asking for my $$ back, especially since I have e-mails directly from the inventor of the NTI (I e-mailed him with digital pics of the NTI in my mouth, and he said it was completely off, not adjusted properly).
anyway, good luck with your splint. Pay close attention to how your muscles feel while wearing it...and make sure it's adjusted properly!:)
Meg
I also sometimes feel terrible after talking for too long. It's an awful feeling...I am just hoping it will improve in time. I have recently started doing a treatment called myotherapy, and it seems to be helping me. In many cases, even when a person has joint problems, most of the pain is still coming from the muscles. So, myotherapy, which works on the muscles, is helping my pain. Now I just want to get my function back...I can only open my mouth 34mm, and am hoping to get back to the 50mm opening I used to have. But for now, I will take a reduction in pain!
I am really convinced the NTI did nothing for me at all...it may have even made me worse. I'm not sure if it was that, or something else that made me worse while wearing it. I try not to think about it, because thinking about mistakes that were made just depresses me. I am just very angry that the dentist said it was OK for the dental assistant to make the NTI, that it was so easy...I wonder how many other people they have done that to! I am thinking of complaining and asking for my $$ back, especially since I have e-mails directly from the inventor of the NTI (I e-mailed him with digital pics of the NTI in my mouth, and he said it was completely off, not adjusted properly).
anyway, good luck with your splint. Pay close attention to how your muscles feel while wearing it...and make sure it's adjusted properly!:)
Meg