Hi all
I have TMJ from an auto accident this March. Just started a sore throat a few weeks ago, mostly on 1 side and hurts more to swallow. I am so glad I found this site. I didn't think I could have a sore throat from this. I also have 2 compressed discs in my neck due to the accident. I have a 24/7 headache, the muffled ears, tightness on sides of head and jaw, ear aches, lots of neck and shoulder pain.
Be careful of TMJ specialists. I went to one that said I may have to have all my lower teeth crowned so they met up w/the upper jaw. He also said I would never get over this. And the charge to just get the mouthpiece was $3900 - the rest would have been $20K and who knows how much more. Found another TMJ specialist, supposed to be one of the best in town, and he uses alot of different methods, including holistic, so he is where I go next. So call different dentists in town and see who they recommend for this issue - don't go to a regular dentist, find someone that specializes only in TMJ. And just be conservative - you always have the right to make a decision that can include the word "no".
Find a good osteopath or chiropracter that does touch adjustment (no twisting the neck or lots of cracking) and is a cranial specialist. Use acupuncture - this will help the pain and relax the muscles - it does work. I use both and helps alot. If you have a holistic school in town you can go for accupuncture for less money. The teacher shows the students how to do the acunpuncture on you.
Consider that your neck is out of place as well since evrything is connected. My regular dentist told me that I have to get my neck better to really resolve the TMJ. And I have talked to one TMJ specialist that said the proper adjustment w/a cranial specialist can get the jaw into place. The mouth piece will help keep things aligned. However, I understood it is supposed to be worn all the time not just at night. NEVER surgery there is no need to go this far.
I also teach Tai Chi/Qigong - learn to breathe and do moving meditation to relax especially before bed.
If you can find a Body Stress Release Practitioner - rare in this country- if you are in Phoenix there is one here. This is a specialty that comes out of So Africa - combo of light touch, energy and relieving stress in the back, neck ,etc has really works for me, too.
Good luck to all of us!