| My TMJ Cause and Solution
My TMJ started after getting new crowns on upper left. They were a little too shallow, and my jaw didn't get the support it needed anymore. Scan showed I do have some arthritis, but that never bothered me before my bite was messed with. While waiting to find a dentist willing to replace the crowns and another who knew what kind of splint I needed, I discovered a temporary way to ease the pain myself. I bought orthodontic wax and rolled a little strip up and bit down gently on it, on the side where my bite was a little short. It balanced the bite and helped me not to clench. At night and even during the day I would sometimes place a small roll of wax on both sides of my mouth and bite down gently, allowing my jaw to move into a more comfortable balance. I suggest experimenting with this. It might take a few days for the pain to start subsiding. It's just a temporary solution to easing the pain, but it was a life-saver for me. I finally got a provisional bridge with a wonderful bite and the pain went away almost immediately. Still waiting to get permanent crowns with correct bite. A bite can be off ever so slightly and cause awful pain for those susceptible to TMJ. I say look at the bite and get it balanced! Hope this helps someone experience some relief.
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