I have had a problem with TMJ (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) for a number of years. It first started with my jaw locking closed. I didn't have any other pain with it but would have to work my jaw until it got unlocked. I couldn't chew gum or chewy candy because that usually led to jaw locking.
It wasn't until right after my hip surgery that I began to have pain in my jaw. This time the pain was in the other jaw. It started after I chewed a piece of gum for no more than 5 seconds......now my jaw crackles when I eat anything and hurts like the devil when I bite down on something. And.......it is on the other side not the side that used to lock all the time.
Well, anyway I went for my regular dental appointment and told the dentist about my sore jaw. He decided I needed a mouth splint to wear at night. He told me I was grinding and clenching my teeth putting pressure on my jaw. So, we did impressions and I picked up the splint yesterday and wore it last night.
Now, I'm already an attractive sight when I go to bed as it is. I have to wear a sleep mask because my eyelids don't close all the way leading to extremely dry eyes. I have to put bright green ear plugs in my ears because of Ron's snoring. A look that definitely resembles Shrek. Now I have a mouth piece in my mouth that makes me look like a defensive lineman. Gee....how could I be anymore irresistible?
When I went to bed I thought there was no way I'd be able to sleep with that appliance in my mouth. But, I must have fallen asleep pretty fast and didn't wake up again until this morning. At first my teeth didn't line up right when I took the splint out of my mouth but it quickly readjusted. My jaw actually feels better....maybe the dentist knew what he was talking about. I just wasn't aware that I grind my teeth. Anyone else ever wear a mouth splint? Did it help?
My New Garden
3 days ago
4 comments:
I haven't worn one, but I am aware that I clench my teeth often. I've learned to work at keeping my upper and lower jaws slightly ajar from each other when my mouth is closed.
My dad grinded his teeth so bad that you could hear him from outside the house. Yet the man never had a cavity his entire life. Weird, huh?
I wish you well. If you continue to feel out of alignment in the morning, speak to the dentist. He might need to make a slight adjustment. Good luck!
I wear one of those night guard appliances and it really does help, but it is wicked unattractive. Sometimes I do clack my teeth together before they are readjusted though, and that can hurt momentarily.
I wear one of those night guard appliances and it really does help, but it is wicked unattractive. Sometimes I do clack my teeth together before they are readjusted though, and that can hurt momentarily.
My daughter wears one and she says it really helps. You will appreciate it after awhile!
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