TMJ Problem

I have been informally diagnosed with TMJ Dys. by my Doc, my Chiropractor and my dentist. I haven't had any x-rays, but they can feel and see it. I have pain in my face, teeth and jaw most days, and my jaw pops with every bite.  My speech is noticably different as is my face movement. It is hard to get treatment, no one wants to pay for it.  Here are my questions regarding TMJ.

1.) I have read about the placement of the TMJ and how the dysfunction occurs. Along with the popping I can place my fingers on my jaw and when I open my mouth, my left jaw feels like it pops out of socket.....like there is a large knot that pops out when opened. Is this normal?

2.) I have a lot of other symptoms that started when the TMJ got worse. Tingling in hands and upper body, twitching in my face, especially in my lips, above my lips and right below my nose, sometimes I have what I would call a "jerky" feeling all over my body, like I have had too much caffeine-which I do not drink. It will pass after a few days. I have a filmy glaze to my eyes, and blurry vision like I need to blink to see, especially in my right eye, and i can hardly see signs anymore, and dizzy spells that will last a few days and worsen with certain movements of my head, I wake up tired after 8-10 hours of sleep.  Are these all symptoms of TMJ?

3.) What is the best treatment for TMJ Dysfunction and should I have x-rays first?....since no one wants to seem to give them to me.

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

I would suggest that you see a doctor that specializes in TMJ dysfunction and pain management asap.

[LyndaM]

THere are TMJ specialists that can help you.....I sure one of your dr, or dentist can refer you to one.  Are you clenching your teeth at night?  or grinding?  this may explain how you got into the position you are in.....You say you have pain in your teeth, I was wondering if it achy teeth or deep below the teeth.?  I have been trying to diagnose my situation also.  LyndaM