For background, I have migraine disease, TMJ disorder and fibromyalgia. I have braces right now in the hopes that it will help me in the future because I grind and clench my teeth at night. I saw a TMJ specialist prior to the orthodontist, and I wore many different types of splints. (I was really hoping the one with the NTI-TSS device would have worked, too.)

My bite has worsened in the past year (before braces) in that one side (left) does not touch at all and my bite in front is open (teeth do not close). Ironically, my TMJ looks good now. When I first got the braces on, I thought I would not clench at night becayse the TMJ specialist said usually it stops. Nice thought, but I clenched away and woke at 5 a.m. in severe pain. The TMJ specialist prescribed valium, which I've been on since July when I got the braces on,

The latest treatment is that the orthodontist told me to wear this rubber band on the left side to force the teeth to move into place on top and bottom. The first night I work with a migraine. I called the orthodontist, and while the receptionist thought he'd say I have to wear it all the time, he actually said not to wear the rubber band at night. The problem now is that my daily headaches, facial and neck pain are worse with the rubber band sometimes, and I need to take it out. I know I'm not gaining the benefit of the treatment, but I also don't want to suffer. I suffer enough pain already, for Pete's sake.

I see the ortho for another adjustment on Oct. 22 so I will have to tell him the truth. I have a feeling he might not be happy with me, and I know it might lengthen my treatment and I might have to pay even more for my treatment (I read that on the pamphlet they gave me to scare me into wearing my O-rings). I don't know if anyone else has had this problem, but I'd sure love some feedback. Thanks!