MRI- how do they get the "open" shot? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

papergoods · 04-21-2004, 06:44 PM

Hello

I have closed bite TMJ, a year ago they attempted an MRI, they got the closed pic OK, but for the open they attempted to put this block like thing in my mouth to hold open. Before 2 minutes had gone by there were tears from the pain of it being cranked open going down my cheeks, I had to take it out and could not go on. I was in severe pain for weeks from the attempt. My doctor says they need that shot.

Anyone have any suggestions how to get through this? A bite block that works better or somehting?

TiffanyAnn · 04-22-2004, 07:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by papergoods

Hello

I have closed bite TMJ, a year ago they attempted an MRI, they got the closed pic OK, but for the open they attempted to put this block like thing in my mouth to hold open. Before 2 minutes had gone by there were tears from the pain of it being cranked open going down my cheeks, I had to take it out and could not go on. I was in severe pain for weeks from the attempt. My doctor says they need that shot.

Anyone have any suggestions how to get through this? A bite block that works better or somehting?

I totally understand what you mean about the pain from holding your mouth open. Here are a couple of tricks I used to get through the MRI. I first of all kept in mind how important the MRI was to my diagnosis and treatment so I had my mind made up I would make it through the MRI regardless, also I took a muscle relaxer and a pain pill before going for the MRI. I was in pain but determined to get the MRI done. Perhaps you could ask your doctor for medication to take prior to the MRI or he can leave orders for the hospital staff to adminster some type of medicaiton prior to the MRI. I hope these ideas help some and good luck.
Tiffany