After a recent trip to the dentist, Munchkin #2's left jaw joint (the TMJ) was popping in and out of place. It was hurting for her to open her mouth wide. After using a heat pack and lots of Aleve, it was time to call the rheumatologist.
So...was this just a freak thing after being in the dentist's chair, or was this a sign of things to come?
After phoning the rheumatologist's office, they deemed that my munchkin needed to be seen. At the appointment, they couldn't confirm, or deny, if it is arthritis. They did prescribe a very low dose muscle relaxer to be taken at bedtime and to continue with the Aleve. They also told me that when they have pediatric arthritis patients present with TMJ, they refer them on to an orthodontist. Well, it just so happens that Munchkin #2 has an orthodontist appointment today because they need to do x-rays and put in her expanders. The rheumatology office told me to discuss the situation with our orthodontist before he does the x-rays.
This kind of stuff makes me nuts. I really wish things were simple with medical stuff. I remember when my daughter would get a little ache or pain and I'd think, "Ah, it's nothing." Now, I freak and tremble at every little thing. Is it arthritis? Is this a flare coming on?
I have to remind myself that there are so very many kids living with this disease and there are so very many who have it so much worse than my munchkin.
In the meantime, normal teenager stuff goes on like getting rigged out for getting braces in a few months.
Peace.
So...was this just a freak thing after being in the dentist's chair, or was this a sign of things to come?
After phoning the rheumatologist's office, they deemed that my munchkin needed to be seen. At the appointment, they couldn't confirm, or deny, if it is arthritis. They did prescribe a very low dose muscle relaxer to be taken at bedtime and to continue with the Aleve. They also told me that when they have pediatric arthritis patients present with TMJ, they refer them on to an orthodontist. Well, it just so happens that Munchkin #2 has an orthodontist appointment today because they need to do x-rays and put in her expanders. The rheumatology office told me to discuss the situation with our orthodontist before he does the x-rays.
This kind of stuff makes me nuts. I really wish things were simple with medical stuff. I remember when my daughter would get a little ache or pain and I'd think, "Ah, it's nothing." Now, I freak and tremble at every little thing. Is it arthritis? Is this a flare coming on?
I have to remind myself that there are so very many kids living with this disease and there are so very many who have it so much worse than my munchkin.
In the meantime, normal teenager stuff goes on like getting rigged out for getting braces in a few months.
Peace.
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Be peaceful and respectful.