Oh my teeth 2!

I visited my cousin, who is an orthodentist, last friday to have my TMJ check up and I've learned a lot about it. As a result, I was diagnosed having a TMJ disorder!

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD, TMJ or TMD), or TMJ syndrome, is an umbrella term covering acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the mandible to the skull. The disorder and resultant dysfunction can result in significant pain and impairment.

There are many external factors that place undue strain on the TMJ. These include but are not limited to the following:

Over-opening the jaw beyond its range for the individual or unusually aggressive or repetitive sliding of the jaw sideways (laterally) or forward (protrusive) - teeth grinding. These movements may also be due to parafunctional habits or a malalignment of the jaw or dentition. This may be due to:

(1) Modification of the occlusal surfaces of the teeth through dental neglect or accidental trauma. (2) Speech habits resulting in jaw thrusting. (3) Excessive gum chewing or nail biting. (4) Excessive jaw movements associated with exercise. (5) Repetitive unconscious jaw movements associated with bruxing. (6) Size of foods eaten.

During my check up, my cousin requested me to answer a questionaire on TMJ symptoms and I am experiencing almost all the symptoms except in the throat. Here are some of the symptoms on the questionare:

Headache: Front Head and Back Head

Eyes: Pain behind the eyes

Ears: Hizzing/ Buzzing

Neck: Neck Stiffness

Jaw: Clicking/ Popping

Throat: Throat Soreness

The treatment my cousin advised is to use a TMJ clear rubber Splint in my lower teeth case. I need to wear the Splint 24 hours in at least 3 months and will remove it only when eating and brushing!

This is how it looks when it is worn (teeth on top)

The Clear Rubber Splint

This Splint treatment costs not just a penny but Php15,000! My gosh! Now I'm thinking if I will still continue my teeth braces which costs Php30,000! Oh my teeth! My cousin also mentioned that my TMJ disorder could recurr if I will still continue my incorrect habits that's why I still consider the braces in order not to stop it but due to financial constraints I doubt to pursue the braces. Hu hu hu.... Teeth are really very precious - love them!