Looks like I might be getting a couple of these- Occlusal mouth guards for my newly acquired TMJ. My co-worker laughed at me- laughed I said- because I did this by almost knocking myself out. I fell trying to avoid the gunk that drips from the bottom of the car when it snows after you park in the garage.

I did not actually hit the floor, although I should have just gone ahead and done that. I caught myself but when I did, my shoulder stayed still while my chin kept coming down and hit it. I have never heard teeth hit together so hard. So now the right side of my jaw is out of alignment.

I waited and waited to see if it would go back in for good but no, it pops out all the time now. Fortunately it never keeps me from talking. Fortunately depending on who you are, I guess. I haven't found anything yet that will shut me up. I like to talk.

I have a problem with food though, which is good in a way; however, soft stuff is getting old. I can eat some things that are not soft if they are extremely crispy or things like wraps if I shred them up like a salad and take teeny tiny bites without grinding my teeth.

This got to be a pain so I took the chance and called my dental insurance company, Delta Dental, and this is covered at 80% after my $50 deductible. This is a good thing because I always throw some money on my FSA card for these out of pocket expenses. It covers deductibles, medication co-payments and other non covered but medically required expenses. I can swipe and never know I spent a dime.

When it pops out, and it does this several times a day, I have to wiggle my jaw from side to side while pressing on my temples. It is stuck open and to get it aligned again hurts. This device may- MAY - make it better. I hope so, I can't bite down with any pressure on anything.

I really miss Subway!

photo credit

photo credit 2