Mika's poor jaw again!!

[Mika's mommy]

We have had such a hard time with Mika's jaw it's rediculas. It's absolutly breaking my heart! Her jaw keeps locking wide open, I dont know why, I think it might be the heat thats triggering it, but I am not sure. In the past five days, it has locked on her everyday. I talked to her vet and she doesnt want to do surgery on her, becuase she is just over a year old (july 13th), but I dont know what else to do. Mika is such a loving mild mannered little (46lbs) girl, but when this happens to her, she wants nothing to do with me. She is usually attached to my hip, everywhere I go she goes, yup even to the bathroom, but she has been distant. I hate this! Everyone I ask knows nothing about what I am talking about, which is making it even harder, I feel like were on our own with this one. Any suggestions?? PLEASE!!!

 

[punchinella]

Oh poor Mika! :( I really wish I had some advice for you, but I'm afraid I do not. I certainly hope you figure out what is causing this and can get it taken care of. I can't imagine how frustrating that must be. Paws crossed all works out for you and Mika.

 

[EAO76]

How awful! Once it gets stuck how do you get it to close? Does she seem to be in pain when it happens? Does the vet plan to do surgery once she is older? Or is she hoping that the problem will correct itself? Have you thought about getting a second opinion? Maybe someone who does animal dentistry or an orthopedic surgeon? Any chance she has tetanus?

 

[Sweet Ginny]

Oh my goodness!! That sounds awful! Have you considered seeing another vet for a second opinion? You might want to do your own research on the internet and see if you can find any more information.

I am so sorry I don't have any advice to offer (other than--get a second opinion!!) but I am sending get well wishes! Ginny sends smooches and wiggles . . .

 

[Maddie's dad]

Have you tried a chiroppractor? I get TMJ and and an adjustment on my jaw always helps. Maybe your vet can refer you to one that practices on animals.

 

[furrykidmom]

Mika's mommy

I am having the same problem with my girl. I just posted and was referred to your post.

We have not been to the vet yet. It has only happened twice. Once about a month ago and then again this evening.

It is terrifying for both of us. She screams when it happens. I do not know if it is pain, fear or both. I imagine both.

Our girl is just 11 months old. We can only hope that she will grow out of it but her jaw is visibly crooked. We have called her Popeye since we got her. We joke about putting a corn cob pipe in her mouth because it would look natural hanging there.

We do not find her new problem humorous. It has never affected her eating, drinking or playing but we fear that in the future it could be a serious problem.

I am also afraid that it may happen when we are not home. She gets so scared when it happens.

How long does it take before your girl can close her mouth? For our girl it only lasts about 5-10 seconds but it feels like a lifetime. I am afraid to try to push it back shut for fear of fracturing something.

 

[lafsalot]

Tmj may be the cause for open mouth locking. You can search the web for more info and possible treatment options. Good luck and do keep us posted ~ Cathy

 

[Lola's mum]

If your vet has no ideas can he not refer you to a specialist.
Have you tried looking on the net for possible causes?
I so feel for you & your baby :(