TMJ Pain Relief

    For Patients

    Understanding Facial Pain

    Facial pain, a condition that encompasses various discomforts affecting the cranium and face, can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we are committed to providing specialized care for those experiencing facial pain, helping them find relief and regain their well-being.

    Key Points About Facial Pain:

    • Types of Facial Pain: Facial pain can manifest in different forms, including pain in the jaw joint (TMJ), neck pain, ear pain, and facial discomfort. These symptoms often lead to considerable discomfort and reduced functionality.
    • Causes: Facial pain can result from multiple factors, including TMJ disorders, dental issues, muscle tension, trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment.
    • Common Symptoms: Symptoms of facial pain may include a dull or sharp pain in the jaw, neck, or ear, as well as difficulty with jaw movement, headaches, and facial muscle tension.
    • Diagnosis: Accurate diagnosis is vital to understanding the source of facial pain. Our experienced team utilizes advanced diagnostic techniques to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
    • Treatment Options: Treatment for facial pain may include therapies, exercises, lifestyle modifications, or dental appliances, depending on the underlying cause. The goal is to alleviate pain and restore normal function.

    Our Commitment to Quality Care:

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of facial pain disorders. Our expert team, led by Dr. Billings, is dedicated to staying updated with the latest research and treatment methods to provide the best care available.

    Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of facial pain or seeking information to enhance your understanding of this condition, we are here to support you. Contact us to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward finding relief and restoring your quality of life.

    TMJ Facial Pain

    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.