temporary silastic implants

[Cally22]

I have had tmj, and had most all the treatments known. Pain meds, nsaids, muscle relaxants, steroid, and botox injections,PT, pain mgmt, mouth splintsx3, and 10 operations. 4 surgeries ago, an oral surgeon put in temporary silastic implants, and removed them 6 months after he inserted them, telling me that they would create a scar tissue like disc for my joints to be protected.. Well since then I have had to have 2 more surgeries, 1 on each side at different time, to clear up the adhesions, and do a cornoidectomy bilaterally to help me to be able to open my mouth more than a pinky's width. I have been told that I have joints that are severely degenerated, ankylosis, arthirits, and that in the future I most likely will have to have a joint replacement. Pain is a daily occurence for me, and it is just enough of a struggle for me to manage it with neurontin and voltaren 3 x day. I feel as if my life is out of control sometimes..

When should I become worried about my joints needing to be replaced... What should I do in the mean time?

Thanks,
cally