In the midst of learning to deal with TN, and seeing several specialists which include the Oral Surgeon, they have suggested I get a lower partial???
First of all; I have done without bottom left side molars and wisdom teeth for several years. But, since my MRI's showed "severe degenerative change of the left temporomandibular joint", they think a partial would relieve some of the pressures on that joint. My broken jaw from over 50yrs ago, seems to now be showing more and more long term affects. More to be added to the normal aging process :-(
Needless to say, Implants are not an option here! I'm concerned, they are not seeing the possibility of what affects that apparatus with metal, to rest on the gum, while attaching to the sensitive front teeth, might have on the TN side of this. Especially, after fillings and drilling on top teeth, sent pain through the roof level on Thursday! After barely making it through the work done with the aid of cut patches all along the jaw and neck (My Halloween like Costume) and DRUGS, am just now some better today from it all. This work really needed to be done before picking up a new night guard to use for all the clenching involved from pain and more.
Honestly, I feel like this is one of those dam if you do, and dam if you don't situations. Anyone experience or suggestions here? Please reply...
BTW, I think the one good thing this past week was the Therapy appointment. He seemed to understand and explain in detail, the mass of nerves and muscles with possible involvement from the brain-stem, Trigeminal, and Occiptal, Auricular etc.. which affects C1, C2 and C3. Some exercises and stretches were started, will do and know more next week as a lot of session was explanation of symptoms and history. One picture link among the many others out there http://www.medicalexhibits.com/medical_exhibits.php?exhibit=07028_05X
Working on; "Train your mind to see the possible good side of everything!"
May WE ALL have a Pain Free Day,
Lynsey