The TMJ Association - changing the face of TMJ

TMJ Resources - Our Family - Patient Talk

Crystal

I have been suffering with TMJ since I was 8 or 9 years old. I never really knew that what I was suffering from (pain behind my left eye, terrible headaches, tremendous pain in my left ear, etc.) was all related to TMJ. I've always had pain in my jaw, but now inside the left side of my mouth hurts gums and teeth hurt terribly!) too. If I didn't have to brush my teeth, I wouldn't. Every time I turn my head to the left, it feels like something is in the way. Chewing anything sends me through the roof (but I do it anyway-because I'm hungry!) and of course, everything I eat is soft. Even drinking through a straw hurts! O.K., enough complaining. I have been to my orthodontist and an oral surgeon. The orthodontist made me a bite plate that does nothing. The surgeon did some conservative surgery rinsing the joint of any loose cartilage. This did not work either. After reading literally every story on this site and researching on the net, I found a center here in Columbus, Ohio that only deals with TMJ and myofacial pain! I have emailed the doctor, but have yet to hear from him. I also plan on calling for an appointment. I am a second grade teacher who really loves her job. But it is very painful to talk and read to the students when I am in so much pain. I also have a wonderful and patient husband and three children. I just want to be a good wife and mother again, because believe me, I know how the quality of life goes out the window with this disease. All I want to do is lay down! If there are any other teachers out there, I would like to hear from you to see how you cope with the job and the pain. Also, if anyone has any suggestions on how to survive the holidays without ruining it for everyone else, please let me know! This is such a wonderful time of the year, and I don't want it to be shattered because of the pain of this horrible disease! Thank you for this site. It truly gives me a place to visit and feel like it's my home within my home, where I can connect with people who are in my situation! I hope everyone has a blessed Christmas and a joyous New Year!