aggiegirl00

Dealing with TMJ seems to have more downs then ups and has been a constant learning process for me. My jaw locked in April 2007, and has never fully opened since, and will problem never fully open as long as I live. Since May, My TMJ specialist has had me doing painful splint therapy, which has been successful to a degree. Along with splint therapy and painfully uncomfortable streching my jaw still has about 20mm to go, but I would be tickled pink with another 5-10mm. Since my doctor wasn't exactly thrilled with my progress, he thought my next step should be surgery, and that is a route I am not willing to go down. I have since then been to an orthodontist, who was recommended by my TMJ specialist, so that I can proceed to the next stage of treatment...BRACES. I am aware that my jaw will never be 100%, but I tired of the constant pain, headaches, and I am ready to get rid of this splint. In December I am having my wisdom teeth pulled along with one lower tooth that has been worn down due to my splint. I also will be getting braces my lower teeth, and will wear a new splint on my top teeth for the first 6 months, and after that the top splint will be relplaced with braces, and I will wear a full mouth of braces for the next 6 months. Sorry that this post is so long, but I am just searching for answers, reassurance and would be so greatful to hear others who have similar stories. Thank you and good luck to all.