TJMD and SSI disability benefits - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

antoni · 07-30-2003, 11:16 AM

Hi,

I was wondering what's people's experience has been trying to get SSI disability benefits once you are diagnosed with TMJD????

I have alot of jaw pain/discomfort and haven't worked in several months and was wondering if there is some why I can qualify for SSI disability to help me out financially.

Thanks

A

Literati · 07-30-2003, 12:00 PM

You probably already done a google search, but if not, I would highly recommend searching under keywords: SSI disability.

You can qualify if you meet their definition of "disabled":
Disability under Social Security is based on your inability to work.You will be considered disabled if you cannot do work you did before and we decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s). Your disability also must last or be expected to last for at least a year or to result in death.

Just out of curiousity, what line of work were you in?

TiffanyAnn · 07-30-2003, 06:32 PM

Hi:
I wouldn't hold out too much hope of getting social security disability because you have TMJ. My husband has a serious heart condition. His heart functions at only about 25% normal function and he has been denied his social security disability and is now having to appeal. It's a very ugly situation.
Tiffany

goodwillstacy · 07-30-2003, 11:29 PM

It's very hard to get SSI for anything. I have a friend who has had 8 TMJ surgeries , and is a mother of 3, and a nurse who is in the process of doing it. She knows a lot about it I guess from hearing all the different stories...she is very very involved with the TMJ Association and has spoken at several meetings. Anyway, her surgeon is helping her do it. You have to document EVERYTHING. And it all has to be OFFICIAL, and by official I mean from your surgeon/doctor. It's very hard to get benefits but it has happened for some people... if you are going to try definitley definitley get a lawyer and just keep trying. You'll get denied at least once, it's protocol. I think they do that to see if you're really serious.

Usually on the second try if you have everything documented correctly and REALLY ARE disabled, you will win your case, or at least thats what I've deduced from all the people I've talked to about it who have gone through the process.
Hope you're having a good night!
.stacy.