Question:
Has anyone had their TMJ disorder exacerbated by the chewing?

I'm worried that my severe TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint disorder) will become exacerbated because you have to chew, chew, chew. Does anyone on here have TMJ? How did your jaw problems do after the surgery. Mine is so bad (pre-op) that I get Botox shots in my jaw every 3 months to semi-paralyze my jaw muscles. Thanks, Joy    — [Deactivated Member] (posted on June 29, 2001)

June 30, 2001
Hi Joy, My TMJ isn't that severe. I don't think. lol Only by very back teeth touched previous to surgery. It's been that way for a LONG time. I never sought treatment for it. I was supposed to but never followed through. What was wierd with me...is that ever since I woke up from surgery...my jaw has been normal. I don't know if the anesthesiologist popped something into place while intubating me...or the drugs relaxed my jaw or what. But now my bite is almost perfect. I haven't had the chewing make it worse. Possibly...since we won't be eating MUCH..it will even out. Having to chew the little bit we eat to oblivion will equate to what we used to chew. Wish I could be more help. Good Luck!
   — Nicole P.

July 1, 2001
Hi Joy, I'm sorry to hear your TMJ is so severe. I hope you get relief from the Botox. I have experienced TMJ and haven't had an episode in a long time(for which I'm grateful). Mine was relieved by wearing a simple mouth guard like football players wear, it helped to keep my jaw in alignment. Also, for me when I was under stress is when mine really acted up. Also, I know of someone who's was also stress related-she was very severe and incapacitated and spent years in bed. Hers was also stress related. Unfortunately she didn't realize it was her marriage. After 20+ yrs of marriage she divorced and her TMJ disappeared.(Truly)Please realize I'm not saying that's your problem. Is is possibly in the slightest it could be stress related? Anyway, I don't have an issue with chewing as I had a BPD/DS but maybe stick with the soft foods when your experiencing severe pain. Anyway, I just want to encourage you and wish you luck and I'll pray that you'll get relief from your TMJ. Best wishes
   — Linda M.

July 1, 2001
I had alot of probs with TMJ until I started seeing a Chiropractor for migrains and mentioned it to him, he adjusts for it and I've been pain free from it for over 2 years. Hope this helps. Debbie in Al
   — Deborah B.