TMD

Also known as Temporomandibular disorders, occur as a result of problems with the jaw, jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and moving the jaw.

What Causes TMD?
The cause of TMD is not clear, but dentists believe that symptoms arise from problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the parts of the joint itself.

*Injury to the jaw, temporomandibular joint, or muscles of the head and neck – such as from a heavy blow or whiplash – can cause TMD. Other possible causes include:
*Grinding or clenching the teeth, which puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ
*Dislocation of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket
*Presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ
*Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth

What Are the Symptoms of TMD?
People with TMD can experience severe pain and discomfort that can be temporary or last for many years. More women than men experience TMD and TMD is seen most commonly in people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Common symptoms of TMD include:
*Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak or open your mouth wide
*Limited ability to open the mouth very wide
*Jaws that get "stuck" or "lock" in the open- or closed-mouth position
*Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth (which may or may not be accompanied by pain)
*A tired feeling in the face
*Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite – as if the upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly
*Swelling on the side of the face
*Other common symptoms include toothaches, headaches, neckaches, dizziness, earaches, hearing problems, upper shoulder pain, and ringing in the ears (tinnitis).




Well, in case you are wondering why I am making you read a report about TMD, it is because on Friday, I went to the dentist because I was having the worst pain of my life. He diagnosed me with TMD. Now, when I say "the worst pain of my life" please keep in mind that a: I am not exaggerating and b: I just had a baby. I got a bunch of pain pills that I am on now (also keep in mind, that they perscribed me pain pills after giving birth and I never took any) and still have incredible pain. I can't eat or sleep really. It is miserable. Chris has been giving me blessings everynight so I can get some kind of relief and they have saved me! It just upsets me because there isn't anything they can do to fix it. I just have to wait it out and hope it doesn't last for many years. ...because I am certain I will die. Anyway, that is what I am dealing with right now. Any good thoughts or prayers you wanna send my way are greatly appreciated!