If it's not one thing, it's another

For the love.
I've been grinding my teeth since I was in high school. I do it in my sleep. During the day, I deal with stress by clenching my jaw...I don't even know I do it anymore.

Last week I started noticing a popping in the left side of my jaw. Didn't think much of it until Friday, when I yawned and ended up having to force my jaw closed.

I apparently have a slipped disc in my jaw from TMD/TMJ.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) occur as a result of problems with the jaw, jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and moving the jaw. These disorders are often incorrectly called TMJ, which stands for  temporomandibular joint.

What Is the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull, which is immediately in front of the ear on each side of your head. The joints are flexible, allowing the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side and enabling you to talk, chew, and yawn. Muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joint control the position and movement of the jaw.

What Causes TMD?

The cause of TMD is not clear, but dentists believe that symptoms arise from problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the parts of the joint itself.

Injury to the jaw, temporomandibular joint, or muscles of the head and neck – such as from a heavy blow or whiplash – can cause TMD. Other possible causes include:

• Grinding or clenching the teeth, which puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ
• Dislocation of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket
• Presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ
• Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth

So I went to the dentist who basically told me it was a strained muscle. I decided to go to a chiropractor for a second opinion after doing some research and my jaw was actually slightly dislocated. He did an adjustment and I felt instant relief. However, the disc is still slipping. I have another appointment with him tomorrow. From what I've read, I just need to let this heal, but do you know how hard it is not to chew or talk animatedly for me?

I hope this resolves quickly.