Photo by Adam Nieścioruk on Unsplash

Temporomandibular joint disorders

Witness : Chen Yifang
Symptom : Temporomandibular joint disorders

 A moving experience

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) 

bothers me no longer.

        Every time I open and close my mouth, I experience a creaking from the occlusion joint of both sides of my jaw and this has been a problem of mine that lasted for 3~4 years. About 2 years ago, my right occlusion joint began to swell. I then went to see a doctor and received biteplate treatment, but it caused my teeth to ache and there was no improvement of the previous symptoms. I then was introduced to see an authoritative dental doctor specializing in temporomandibular joint disorders. He analyzed that my occlusion ligament was loose after seeing my X-ray plate, causing the joint to create a sound. The treatment method was to use biteplate (NT$20,000) together with anti-inflammatory agent every night to restrain the inflammation. If there was no improvement, I would have to take an anti-inflammatory agent when the joint  swelled. 

        In the recent year, my disease began to get worse. The occasional inflammation increased to 2-3 times each week. I had to take anti-inflammatory drugs which made me scared and worried that I might become resistant to such drugs. Moreover, the inflamed appearance might cause me great inconvenience.

I became helpless after I had looked for different treatment methods, and  told myself that I had to take anti-inflammatory drugs the rest of my life. One day, I searched online regarding temporomandibular joint disorders and found similar cases treated by Doctor Wen with scalp acupuncture. I was very surprised, but could not believe the authoritative doctor could cure my disease. How could a Chinese medicine doctor cure such ailment? 

        Although I was in doubt, I did not want to give up that chance, and still scheduled myself for treatment. I told myself, “Never have too much expectation!” I was afraid I would be disappointed if I held too much expectation. 

When the doctor heard my symptoms and experience in seeking treatment, he said with confidence “Do not worry, you went to the right place!” which made me relieved. He then shared the stories of other patients and needled me at once. During the acupuncture session, I could feel a change in the occlusion. It was so amazing! The left side with slight occlusion had no sound, and the right side’s sound became less. I talked laughingly with Doctor Wen, but I was moved enough to cry. 

Until now, I still feel moved and lucky to meet Doctor Wen for his help on my problem. At present, my course of treatment is about to finish. The inflamed condition is gone and the “creaking” sound of occlusion has been greatly improved. I hope to share this with those who have a similar problem and hope they know this disease can be cured even without taking medicine and thus, not worry about the side effects of such.