TMJ Resources - Our Family - Patient Talk
My TMD began when a deep cavity in my upper back left tooth was re-filled. Inflammation spread to muscle and connective tissue, but this problem went undiagnosed for seven years because the area was numb and I couldn’t feel the origin of the problem. I suspect there was an infection that killed the nerve then. Symptoms suggested other physical problems unrelated to dental but general tests were normal.
Depression set in as the injured muscle caused paralysis in parts of my mouth, breathing and swallowing difficulty, nervousness and panic attacks, carpal tunnel and numb limbs, vertigo, general fatigue and body pain. Five years ago, the same tooth abscessed and I had a root canal that remained swollen and red. Twelve years since the whole ordeal began, the tooth bled this past summer, was extracted and treated with Clindamycin, a very strong anti-biotic, and I am finally on the road to recovery because I am rid of that one tooth.
Now, acupuncture and moist heat applications have helped loosen the muscle, which was clenched for all those years due to inflammation. I also take Naproxin Sodium (Aleve) for pain and anti-inflammatory and feel daily improvement. My acupuncturist also treats dentists who have a problem. I needed ten treatments. My prayers are with everyone who suffers with TMJDs, for doctors to understand it and be able to treat more effectively than my 12-year ordeal.
