Hi Everyone,
I'm new to this forum, but not to TMJ.
I had my wisdom teeth removed in 2000, and have been living with a semi-dislocated jaw since.
I saw an oral surgeon in 2006 who performed a bilateral arthrocentesis on me in that same year. It was tender for a few months, but then I had no problems during 2007. Unfortunately it's now starting to act up again. I'm thinking it's almost about time to visit my oral surgeon again and see if he thinks its appropriate to perform another arthrocentesis.
I'm just not sure if I should bother yet. The muscles in my face are getting sore as well as the jaw itself, but I'm experiencing no locking this time, and I still have full range of motion.
Would anyone have any suggestions for me? I'm also due for a trip to the dentist, but I've been putting it off because I know I can't handle having my mouth open for that length of time.
Thanks
Mel.