Hi, all. I know that this has probably been discussed ad nauseum, but I'm going to ask anyway, so bear with me.
I had my first appointment with my oral surgeon today in regards to tmj symptoms. They first appeared maybe a year ago, and have gotten progressively worse (though nowhere NEAR as bad as what some of you are going through!!! My heart goes out to you all!) Anyway, he told me what he recommended which included: braces to align my bite (I've known about this need even before I had tmj symptoms) orthognathic surgury (once again, was brought up a while ago), physical therapy (which I start on the 29th), muscle relaxants (which I will use sparingly), and finally, a nightguard (to be fitted by my dentist) to keep me from grinding my teeth when I sleep.
My question is, are they expensive? (I know it varies, I just want a ballpark figure). Do they work pretty well in keeping you from grinding? I know some people have experienced worsening of symptoms with them.
Any and all input would be greatly appreciated!
[This message has been edited by Djin (edited 09-17-2003).]
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If the stars are aligned against you, realign the stars.
I have to get braces for my TMJ because of my bad bite also. I have an over-the-counter mouthguard that just makes things worse for me so if I were you I would make the investment of $$$$ and just get the mouthguard. It might actually help you. You never know? Does your jaw ever lock??
My mouthgard/nightguard made my jaw lock more while it was in my mouth. Hope this helps~~
No, never had my jaw lock on me. In fact, sometimes it seems like I don't have half the problems as some people on here. (Sometimes I feel bad about complaining when I know that so many are worse off.)
Thanks for the info, though!
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If the stars are aligned against you, realign the stars.
My daughter and I both have TMJ problems - she locks and I don't. Her dentist made a nightguard which caused her locking to be worse so she stopped wearing it but kept being locked most mornings, now is seeing a dentist who became a TMJ specialist for a custom made splint. I also have only used custom made splints and had good relief from them. The cost now with initial records & tests, the splint, and months of followup visits is between $1500-$2000, most not covered by insurance.
Question about Nightguards 
