That sounds really frustrating, and honestly, you’re not alone in feeling blindsided by insurance stuff. I see a lot of people get caught off guard by what’s not covered—especially when it comes to things like custom splints or extended PT. It’s one of those things that’s hard to fully anticipate unless you’ve been through it before.
The recovery timeline can be all over the place, too. Those “few weeks” estimates often don’t match up with real life, especially with jaw surgery. I’ve seen folks need months before they’re back to their normal diet, and that’s totally normal even if it’s not what you expect going in.
If it helps at all, being your own advocate with insurance companies does make a difference—even if it feels like a hassle. Sometimes just asking for a detailed breakdown ahead of time can save a lot of headaches later. You did the best you could with the info you had, and that counts for a lot. It’s tough, but you’re definitely not the only one who’s had to deal with this kind of thing.
Insurance really is a wild card with this stuff. I remember thinking I was all set, then getting slapped with a bill for a splint that “wasn’t medically necessary” in their eyes... super confusing. As far as recovery, mine dragged out way longer than the surgeon predicted—I was still on smoothies two months in. It’s rough, but you’re definitely not alone. It does get better, even if it’s way slower than you hope.
As far as recovery, mine dragged out way longer than the surgeon predicted—I was still on smoothies two months in.
That’s wild—my timeline was almost identical. Surgeon said 4-6 weeks, but I couldn’t chew anything solid for at least 8. Did you notice any actual improvement with your TMJ symptoms after all that? I’m still getting some clicking and stiffness, which is frustrating considering how much effort (and money) went into this. Curious if anyone’s pain actually resolved or if it just shifted.
I’m still getting some clicking and stiffness, which is frustrating considering how much effort (and money) went into this.
Same here—my jaw still pops sometimes, and there’s this weird tightness I never had before. The pain isn’t as sharp as pre-surgery, but it’s like it traded places with this constant dull ache. My surgeon kept saying “give it time,” but honestly, I expected more relief by now. I’m starting to wonder if I should’ve tried more PT before going under the knife... anyone else regret not waiting longer?
I totally get where you're coming from. I had the same hopes going into surgery, and while some of the sharp pain is gone, I’m left with this weird pressure and occasional clicking that just won’t quit. Did your surgeon mention how long “giving it time” actually means? Mine was super vague about recovery timelines, which just added to my frustration. Sometimes I wonder if more PT or splint therapy would’ve been less drastic, but hindsight’s always 20/20...
