frustrated with tmd--bsweet

Bsweet - Are you wearing a bite splint? Have you seen a TMJ specialist? A Neuromuscular dentist or a functional joint orthodic dentist? I've had TMJ for 28 years and I do believe it can be "cured" or at least managed IF it's treated properly. THAT is the problem in many cases, if not most. It also depends on how you developed TMJ - accident, stress, genetics, etc. Not all dentists know how to treat TMJ effectively; few doctors know what to do. In my opinion, it takes a lot of research and perseverance in finding the "right" dentist/doctor. It may take seeing several dentists before you find that right one and it's so difficult to not get frustrated and depressed during this search. And money. I personally believe that really good TMJ dentists will work with the patient in regards to payments, etc.

Have you been to physical therapy or see a massage therapist regularly? I highly suggest either or both. And again, it may take trying different therapists before finding the one that knows what they are doing and can help. This can also be frustrating but so very worth it.

Have you tried anti-depressants or Tegretol or Lyrica or Vicoprofen or Zanaflex? I have not tried Tegretol but will if Lyrica stops working. Vicoprofen is Vicodin with ibuprofen instead of tylenol. Zanaflex works for me whereas Flexeril and Skelaxin didn't touch me. This is another thing that can get frustrating - finding the right one or combination of drugs that helps. AND trying to find a doctor, usually a pain doctor, who will prescribe medications for a TMJ patient.

TMJ is a disease (not a dysfunction as the "experts" keep trying to say) that is both difficult to diagnose and to treat. It shouldn't be as it is becoming much more common place, mainly because of computers. We, the patients, need to be contacting our congress people or somebody to get more attention to this disease. The medical field must become more aware and teach student doctors better. The dental field needs to recognize TMJ as a specialty, not just another dental issue.

You can't ever give up finding the help you need. Yes, it will be frustrating and depressing many times. But each and every one of us is worth it. Don't allow doctors to push you aside. Don't let family and friends treat as tho "it's all in our head."

Sorry, I got on a grandstand and I guess I should get down (for now anyway). Fight for the quality of life we deserve. Never give up.

God bless you,
Carol