Pain In TMJ But My TMJ is Okay

I have pain in the area near my TMJ when I use my mouth (eat, talk, laugh, etc.). The MRI of my TMJ was normal. I wore a dental splint for 6 months and it didn't help. I hear lots of clicking and crackling sounds and when I clear my eustachian tubes via holding my nose and blowing I hear the same sounds and the pain is momentarily relieved. However, it comes right back. My ENT said my e-tubes are okay. So if my TMJ is okay and my e-tubes are okay and dental splints don't help, what is wrong with me and what can be done to alleviate the pain and noises (I also hear ringing and thumping along with the clicking and crackling)?

One thing that may be important. I do have chronic sinusitis for which I am taking Nasorel and Singulair. Is it still possible even with the medication the sinusitis is affecting my e-tubes? Would getting sinus surgery be worth it? Sorry for so many questions.

Thanks

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

It certainly sounds(excuse the pun)like there is some type of dysfunction in the TMJ area. The noises that you describe are not typical of a normal functioning joint. I do not know who made the splint for you--if the doctor specializes in TMJ dysfunction. My suggestion is to find a doctor that limits his practice to this problem. Either call your local dental society for a referral or go to a dental school nearby.