The TMJ Association - changing the face of TMJ

TMJ Resources - Our Family - Patient Talk

Bernice

In the last thirteen years I have had 9 TMJ surgeries. What I have found through my treatments is that splint therapy works if the doctor is qualified. There are dentists and experienced/speciality TMJ dentists. I had received treatment which helped but was told I would need more treatment. The more procedures performed on me the more pain I was in. My treatment plan took me through two orthoscopic bi-lateral procedures and four bi-lateral open joint surgeries. I was convinced that my disc was dysfunctional and that I needed surgery. The next time it was that I needed metal implants, shots in my face and TMJ joint. Everything had been temporary up to this point. The discs and the six screws attached to my skull came loose and caused a lot of damage. The treatments and surgeries did nothing. The TMJ doctor had his license revoked for misdiagnosis, overtreatment and putting me at risk.

My accupuncturist has been my best buddy. He has his PhD in accupuncture and is a MD. My joint hurts but the other pains and problems are slowly getting relief. The doctors damaged my 5^th cranial nerve. While in a pain induced seizure my accupuncturist treated me and they stopped. If all I could have is one treatment, it would be accupuncture after all those years of hellish treatments I have had.

Anything less invasive for your body is best, as we can not turn back the clock. Take time to let your body heal. A good pain management psychologist really helps. They allow you to vent while reminding you that your body heals if we let it. My additional advice would be to look to the long term fix verses the short term one. After a while the short term fixes add up and create something that you could never imagine.