Kristin’s story is similar to many patients who suffer from temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Her symptoms, including discomfort in her head, face, and sinuses, were frustrating to have to endure on a daily basis and made it difficult for her to live her life. However, what sets her particular case apart from others is the sheer severity of her symptoms as well as the length of time she endured the condition. After years of searching for relief, she found help through Dr. Jeffrey S. Haddad at Michigan TMJ & Sleep Center.
Searching for Answers
Kristin’s troubles began at the age of 12, around the same time she underwent orthodontic treatment. She started experiencing migraines, followed by persistent headaches and severe facial pain. She also felt intense sinus pressure that made it difficult to breathe through her nose.
Initially believing it was a sinus issue, Kristin consulted numerous ear, nose, and throat specialists (ENTs) but found no relief. Over the years, she sought help from various healthcare professionals, including chiropractors, massage therapists, acupuncturists, and physical therapists. She even underwent multiple diagnostic tests, including CT scans and MRIs, to rule out a craniospinal fluid leak. One diagnosis suggested chronic sinusitis, but treatments failed to provide relief.
After a decade of searching, Kristin finally saw an ENT specializing in facial pain. This doctor did not assume her sinuses were the problem. Instead, he focused on her jaw and suggested she might have TMD.
Choosing a TMD Specialist
Armed with this new information, Kristin began researching TMD dentists. She chose Dr. Haddad due to his expertise, cutting-edge technology, and dedication to improving TMD care. Kristin recalls how speaking with the office manager, Christine, gave her hope for the first time in years.
Diagnosing and Treating Kristin’s TMD
Dr. Haddad thoroughly evaluated Kristin’s condition, using electromyography (EMG) to measure the tension in her jaw muscles and computerized jaw tracking to assess her jaw movement. These tests confirmed that Kristin had TMD. Dr. Haddad designed a custom orthotic (bite splint) to help alleviate her symptoms and recommended testing for sleep apnea, which she also had.
A Path to Relief
Kristin’s progress was slow, partly due to other health issues like Lyme disease and an autoimmune disorder. However, with consistent use of her orthotic, she experienced significant improvements. Kristin could eat without pain, breathe through her nose, and sleep well at night.
Reflecting on her journey, Kristin says, “I can’t say thank you enough to Dr. Haddad for making my pain bucket so much lighter! There are ups and downs, but I have a caring, experienced specialist in my corner who goes the extra mile to get his patients to optimal living with TMD.” She adds, “If Dr. Haddad can help me, he can help anyone!”
Kristin’s story is a testament to the expertise and compassion found at Michigan TMJ & Sleep Center. If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD and are tired of living in discomfort, call our office at (248) 480-0085 or use our online contact form to request and appointment. We are here to help.