Could be a healing reaction, Molly...

Especially if this has been a chronic problem for you. Be interesting to see if after this terrible round and with the pulling you never have to deal with this sort of problem again. Sure hope so!

As far as a possible TMJ connection...do you go to a chiropractor? I have heard many stories about success with tmj through chiropractic means, and if it is a nerve problem it could help you.

Sounds horrible, hang in there!

D.