For as long as I can remember, I’ve dealt with TMJ pain. It started as occasional popping and tightness in my jaw. Over time, the symptoms turned into daily discomfort, aching in my jaw, tension headaches, and pain radiating into my neck and shoulders. Even talking or chewing could trigger discomfort, and I just accepted it as part of my daily life. I tried multiple mouthguards, but they were uncomfortable, and I’d spit them out while I slept without realizing it.
After a decade of discomfort, I was also diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which affects joints all over the body, including the temporomandibular joint. This meant my TMJ pain was linked not only to muscle tension but also to inflammation from my RA, making it more persistent and more challenging to manage. Since the TMJ pain continued and had become chronic, interfering with my daily activities, I decided to consult with an oral surgeon who specializes in TMJ treatment at Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery.
The Consultation That Gave Me Hope
What stood out most about my visit with Dr. Erik Reitter was the depth and precision of the consultation and TMJ evaluation. His expertise was evident from the moment we began. Instead of a quick conversation and surface-level check, the consultation was a thorough, step-by-step examination and comprehensive assessment to identify the exact source of my TMJ pain.
Dr. Reitter took detailed measurements of my jaw movements, checking how wide I could open my mouth, how my jaw shifted when I moved it up, down, left, and right, and even how my bite aligned. He carefully listened for the popping and clicking sounds coming from my jaw joints, subtle but important signs of TMJ dysfunction. He also palpated muscles around my head, neck, and shoulders to locate areas of tension and tenderness. The attention to detail made me confident I was in expert hands.
Throughout the consultation, he explained every step in clear, easy-to-understand terms, ensuring I knew what to expect and why each part of the exam mattered. His thoroughness reassured me that this wasn’t a basic approach but a truly personalized TMJ treatment plan.
“My job as a provider is to improve joint function, decrease pain, and improve quality of life with education, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and minimally invasive treatments,” says Dr. Reitter. “My team and I have a proven track record in regard to managing these patients.”
Why My Oral Surgeon Recommended Botox®
After the evaluation, Dr. Reitter suggested Botox injections as a conservative treatment option. I was nervous at first; I had never had Botox before and always thought it was only for cosmetic purposes. However, he explained that Botox relaxes the muscles that cause jaw tension and pain, which can significantly help reduce TMD symptoms.
The treatment targeted several muscles involved in TMJ pain, including the masseters (the jaw muscles that clench), the temples, the forehead, and even the trapezius muscles in the shoulders that often hold tension. Knowing Dr. Reitter’s expertise and the detailed consultation process gave me the confidence to move forward with Botox as a safe and effective option for my TMD.
“The goal is not a quick fix or a promise of a full cure, but patients can expect improved pain levels if they follow protocol,” Dr. Reitter explains. “Remember, surgery is not a fix. My job is not to promote or endorse surgery unless absolutely indicated. In fact, only about 10% of my patients require surgical treatments.”
My Botox® Treatment Experience and Results
The injection process was quick and surprisingly easy. The skill of an oral surgeon made it relatively painless, and I could continue my day immediately afterward. Within two weeks, I noticed a significant reduction in jaw tightness, less soreness, and fewer tension headaches. The chronic neck pain also eased. The relief felt almost unbelievable after years of pain.
To maintain results, treatment is typically recommended every 3 to 4 months. Consistent treatment can help keep symptoms from returning and provide long-term relief for those dealing with chronic TMJ pain.
My Final Thoughts
Living with TMJ pain, especially when it’s connected to rheumatoid arthritis, can be exhausting and overwhelming. For years, it felt like something I just had to deal with until I visited Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery. What made the difference wasn’t just the treatment itself but the thorough consultation and attention to detail. The exam was incredibly in-depth, and for the first time, I felt like someone truly understood what I was going through. That level of expertise and personalized care gave me confidence in the treatment and ultimately led to real relief. If TMJ pain is affecting your daily life like it was mine, don’t settle; schedule a consultation. There is hope, and the right care can make all the difference.
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