Originally posted by: Kev
Originally posted by: Rumpltzer
I can hear my jaw squeaking when I chew and stuff. It sounds like it's coming from the right side where the mandible attaches to the skull below my ear. I figured it'd go away on its own, but it's been a week now...
I didn't get into a fight or do anything that I can remember to mess with it.
Would you make an appointment to see the doctor over a squeaky jaw??
Mine was much worse (actually locking and popping), I went to the doctor and he did jack sh*t. I did recieve a $35 bill though. There's nothing really they can do.
Absolutely not true. The fact is that Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is multisymptomatic and has multifactorial causes, some of which are idiopathic. Many things can be going on. If there is a "squeaking" then something is not functioning in the TMJ as it should. Treatment for TMJD is difficult and you need to go to someone that specializes in treating such things. The doctor needs to do an evaluation to see if it is a muscle problem (more common than you would think, clenched muscles shorten over time and cause malfunctions in joints) or a bone/ligament problem, or both. Evaluations for cases with pain (the pain can be extreme for many patients) may involve some type of image of the joint to be taken, x-ray, MRI, or others.
The usual treatment for jaw squeaks and small pops is to do nothing if there is no pain. Usually the doctor will talk to the patient about the fact that there is a malfunction but treating can make it worse before it gets better. Usual first line treatment is splint therapy where the patient will wear a small acrylic nightguard designed to increase muscle length (the patient clenches on the guard which is 10mm thick). If that doesn't work than drug therapy may be started, including musclerelaxers, painkillers, and antianxiety meds.
My suggestion to Rumpltzer would be to go see a dentist if you are worried about it. You may be more stressed than you think and a nightguard is a good idea anyhow, they don't cost all the much for what they prevent (beware of OTC nightguards, they can do more damage than good, fit is everything and a one size fits all doesn't work).
Kev, it sounds like you went to the wrong doctor or the right doctor did a bad job of explaining things. The $35 is for the office visit but he should have at least explained things better. I hope this post helps.
PM if you have more specific questions.
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