My TMJ pain started after I had my wisdom teeth removed. I had read that grinding your teeth is like having 2 hundred pounds of pressure on your teeth. My teeth would crack from this. I ended up have all my teeth removed. My TMJ pain feels like an ear ache. An MRI showed that the ligaments in my jaw are stretched and my jaw comes out of place. I see a Chrioprator who puts my jaw back in place.

I think my TMJ started when I was in my late 30's. Not sure what preceded it but I had really bad pain in my jaw and teeth in my lower jaw on the left side. I first saw the dentist who sent me to the doctor who sent me back to the dentist who sent me to an oral surgeon who finally diagnosed the problem. Now I wait when I have sudden tooth pain for a few days to see if it goes away before going to the dentist. If it persists for more then two weeks I get it checked out if it goes away I assume it is the TMJ.

My Dentist told me it was from habit of chewing food on one side of mouth & It can be from genetics...I had my Dad's jaw srructure. In my adult years I had braces for several years for this. Then they were removed and I had an orthotic mold made for my teeth to keep my jaw in line straight.. I only have to wear it at night...also practice to not chew food on just one side or hard foid..alternate side to side. Hope this helps.☺️

I found out that I had TMJ from my physician and dentist. I clench and grind my teeth. I tried to wear a mouth guard, but it irritated the sores and sensitive areas, so I can't wear it anymore.

I couldn't breathe w/ it!