Difficulty Chewing

    For Patients

    Difficulty Chewing and TMJ Dysfunction

    At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we provide expert care for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders that can disrupt everyday activities—especially chewing. If you’re experiencing discomfort, clicking, or pain while eating, TMJ dysfunction may be the cause. Our team is here to help you regain comfort and function.

    Why Does TMJ Affect Chewing?

    The temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to your skull and play a central role in chewing, speaking, and jaw movement. When these joints become inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, chewing can become painful or difficult. TMJ-related chewing issues often stem from factors like teeth grinding, bite misalignment, muscle tension, or past trauma to the jaw.

    Common Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

    Difficulty chewing is often accompanied by a range of TMJ-related symptoms, including:

    These symptoms can interfere with daily life and nutrition, and may even cause individuals to avoid certain foods altogether.

    We Can Help With Your Inability to Chew

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we specialize in personalized, comprehensive treatment for jaw pain and TMJ disorders. Our skilled team combines deep expertise with advanced diagnostic technology to get to the root of your discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with jaw popping, tension, or difficulty chewing, we offer a variety of proven solutions—including custom oral appliances, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle guidance—to help relieve your symptoms and support long-term healing.

    If difficulty chewing is affecting your daily life, Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you restore comfort and functionality to your jaw with our expert TMJ treatments.

    TMJ Difficulty Chewing in New Orleans

    Frequently Asked Questions About Trouble Chewing in New Orleans

    Q. Why does my jaw get tired when I chew?

    A. If your jaw gets tired when chewing, it may be a sign of TMJ dysfunction. When the jaw joint or surrounding muscles are strained, they can fatigue more quickly, making it uncomfortable to chew for extended periods.

    Q. What causes difficulty in chewing?

    A. Difficulty in chewing is often caused by issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscle tension, or bite misalignment. These problems can make normal jaw movement feel restricted or painful.

    Q. Is TMJ difficulty chewing common?

    A. Yes, TMJ difficulty chewing is a common symptom of jaw disorders. When the joint isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to discomfort, stiffness, and reduced range of motion while eating.

    Q. Why is it hard to chew with jaw pain?

    A. When you experience hard to chew jaw pain, it’s usually due to inflammation or strain in the jaw muscles and joints. This can make simple movements like chewing feel uncomfortable or even painful.

    Q. What should I do if it’s difficult to chew?

    A. If it’s becoming difficult to chew, it’s important to have your jaw evaluated. Early treatment can help address the root cause and prevent symptoms from worsening over time.

    Q. What treatments are available for chewing-related TMJ issues?

    A. Treatment for TMJ difficulty chewing may include oral appliance therapy, muscle relaxation techniques, and other non-invasive options designed to restore proper jaw function and reduce discomfort.
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      Learn more about what our patients have to say

      about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans

      Very Rev. Philip G. Landry

      5.0 ★★★★★

      Having been diagnosed with sleep apnea in 2003, I was fitted for a head-gear breathing apparatus to alleviate the condition. After struggling with discomfort and lack of sleep, I discontinued use of the device. During a visit to my cardiologist in 2017, I was ordered to take another sleep test which revealed that the condition had reached a dangerous level and that it must be addressed immediately. I shared with Dr. G. Johnson my concerns from the past and he informed me that a new mouth piece for this sleep disorder was available and referred me to Dr. Terry Billings, DDS.

      I contacted Dr. Billings and during my first appointment with him, after a series of tests, he determined that I had another condition, TMJ, which would have to be treated before addressing the sleep disorder. He explained to me that I would have to wear mouthpieces, one by day and one by night, for twelve weeks to correct this issue. My instant reaction was that as a Catholic priest serving as the rector of the St. Louis Cathedral, I often celebrate televised Masses during which a mouthpiece would certainly be a deterrent. Dr. Billings patiently and understandingly explained that I really had no option but assured me that he would be able to make weekly adjustments to the mouthpieces that would help with these concerns.

      Now as I approach the final weeks of this treatment, I am pleased to share that I have been most satisfied with the care and attention of both Dr. Billings and his staff. The level of professionalism and proficiency which I have experienced in the weekly office visits have made a challenging issue bearable. It is amazing to me what the treatment of the TMJ has done for my overall health and well-being and as I now await the mouthpiece to address my sleep disorder I am most grateful to Dr. Billings for his diagnosis and excellent treatment during this period of preparation for it.

      Arden Ballard, PA-C, MS

      5.0 ★★★★★

      You don’t hear that often about a dentist, but his attention to detail, meticulous examination and in-office testing led to uncovering a severely deviated septum that needed prompt surgical intervention. I’m forever grateful for him and his entire staff.

      Dr. Billings noticed that I checked yes to a few items on his questionnaire. When he began asking about my fatigue, sluggish feeling, etc. I blamed it on the kids and being a parent of two young boys. After his dental exam, he insisted that there could be more to my symptoms. After a chat, we decided to do an in-office Facial CT scan. It’s been 4 years since I had one, so I agreed. Everything was promptly scheduled, and their text reminders kept me on schedule.

      I did the CT scan, and Dr. Billings pointed out my severely deviated septum and recommended I get a prompt ENT evaluation. I brought a printout of the CT to my next appointment, and I ended up having sinus surgery 3 weeks later.

      Immediately after surgery, I knew something was different. After healing, I was sleeping better, breathing better and, sure enough, less sluggish and not reaching for my 3pm coffee. All from going to the dentist.

      My teeth look great, too!

      Dr. Billings has opened my eyes to understand that dentists are part of the entire medical team, and when using their training to the fullest, they can change lives.