Experience with TMD (sometimes called TMJ)

Hi there. I used to have TMD a few years back. I was clenching my teeth and grinding them in my sleep to the point where I had constant headaches, tinnitus, muscle twitching in my cheeks and on my scalp. I also realized my jaw muscles were tense and tight during the day as well. Any stress exacerbated the pain and clenching.
After wasting about $700 at the dentist for mouth guards that did not work, I learned to sleep on my hand, with my bent index and middle fingers keeping my jaw open, pressing through my cheek. I also became aware of the clenching during the day and would give myself jaw-joint region massages. Everything went away in a week. If I get unexplained headaches now, I check my neck, jaw and head muscles.
Is your TMD caused by clenching your teeth, or from an injury to the jaw?

My tinnitus is caused by otitis. I also face the problem of bruxism which may have affected my teeth.

@linguaphile it is from the same reasons as yours. Thanks.

@zenzen Then a hug is in order—the best way to relax! {{HUG!!!!!}}

@linguaphile I’m curious about the position you’re describing – I grind my teeth at night, and the mouthguard makes my teeth hurt. Could you post a link or a video of yourself, sleeping? ;)

Grin!! I look my worst when I’m asleep… I’d rather y’all see me looking pretty decent :D

I’ll describe it the best I can—

I sleep on my side and stomach, alternating through the night. This picture shows the placement of where I’d put my hand, but I’ll curve my knuckles in a way that it forces my cheek to stay open, sort of like this but less fist-like.

When you press on your teeth through your cheek muscles, it forces your teeth to stay open. This isn’t a good picture but it shows the concept I’m talking about

^ Thanks! I think I’ve got it. I’ll try it tonight. :)