Hi,

i am cally, and I am 19. I have had tmj since I was around 13 years old. Mine was caused by abuse(a heavy blow to the face). When I was diagnosed with tmj I was having severe pain, locking episodes, and popping snapping noises. I was in misery, and to beat it all I felt all alone, like no one understood or believed me. I now am a much stronger person who is much more confident. I accept my tmj, and I believe it has made me a better person.

Tmj is caused by many things. I have heard of some research which has even linked it to some dental work. So in my mind it is very likly that your problems could have been caused by your braces. But I am no expert by far.

What you can do to help is stay away from chewy hard foods for a while. Never, never chew gum!!!! This just makes tmj so much more worse. If you are in pain try taking aleve, advil, or tylonel. Also, ice is great!! Give your muscles a break, try to keep your stress down, and try to make an appointment with your dentist!!

Good luck, and feel free to ask any questions, I love trying to help, and trying to give back!!!

Cally