I've suffered (and I mean "suffered") with TMJ since I was 17 years old. If you can find a way to have the surgery, it will probably be worth your while. Since I've gotten older, it's become much worse. I can barely open my mouth enough for a dental technician to clean my teeth. Years ago, I wore a retainer over my bottom teeth, but it really didn't seem to help. The teaching group that my dentist back then belonged to wanted me to have the surgery then (that's been about 25 years ago), but back then it was experimental and I wasn't having any of it. I know that if mine gets much worse, I'm going to have to check into surgery. My worst fear is that I'll get old, be in a bed somewhere unable to communicate, and be in terrible pain and unable to tell anyone. I know that sounds weird, but only someone who has experienced this pain will know what I mean. People have committed suicide over TMJ.
I wish you luck! |