TMJD need help with pain relief

Reeni

Hi all. I was diagnosed with TMJD about 2 months ago and was told I need to get a mouthguard fitted. I fully intend to do so but am currently on illness benefit and am applying for the medical card so will have to wait until I get it before I can see a dentist. I am in excruciating pain alot of the time, mostly at night I have noticed its worse but its painful during the day too. Painkillers do not work. I have tried cold packs to little effect. I was taking difene which only dulled the pain a little and I would have to take 3 or 4. i know that is bad but the pain is unbearable. I explained this to the doctor and he suggested one difene with 2 solpadeine but this is not working. He said that this is all that he can prescribe for me. I was wondering if anyone with the disorder had any suggestions for pain relief? The pain is ruining my life atm, it prevents me sleeping, can hardly open my mouth. Sorry if the post is all over the place as I'm in alot of pain as I type. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Miss Lockhart

I'm sorry you're in so much pain Reeni.

I don't have any solutions for you in terms of pain I'm afraid, but I thought I'd post since nobody else has - just for moral support.

I've had TMJD since I was born and I have been through periods like you describe of excruciating pain that ruined my life - mostly during my teens. Thankfully it is much more under control now, but I remember those nights of no sleep and the agony and awkwardness of not being able to eat or even talk properly.

Could you ask for referral to a specialist - maybe they could offer different therapies? There are some exercises that can help too.

Good luck

Reeni

Thanks so much for your support. Yes I will certainly see about a specialist but I'm fairly broke atm so I need to wait til I get the medical card. I guess I'm looking for pain relief for the interim!