Chronic Pain 

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    About TMJ-Related Chronic Pain

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we specialize in providing comprehensive care for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, particularly focusing on the effective management of TMJ-related chronic pain. If you’ve been experiencing persistent discomfort or pain in your jaw, face, head, or neck, our dedicated team is here to help you find relief and improve your overall quality of life.

    Chronic TMJ Pain

    What is TMJ-Related Chronic Pain?

    Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is a condition that affects the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. TMJ-related chronic pain is characterized by persistent discomfort or pain in the jaw joint and surrounding areas. This chronic pain can manifest in various ways, impacting daily activities and diminishing your overall well-being.

    SYMPTOMS

    • Jaw Pain: Persistent pain or tenderness in the jaw joint.
    • Facial Pain: Aching or discomfort in the face, especially around the temples or in front of the ears.
    • Headaches: Recurrent tension headaches or migraines.
    • Neck and Shoulder Pain: Pain or stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
    • Ear Discomfort: Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or earaches.
    • Jaw Clicking or Popping: Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
    • Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty or discomfort while chewing or talking.

    How Our Services Can Help

    At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, our experienced team employs a patient-centric approach to address TMJ-related chronic pain effectively. Our services are designed to:

    • Comprehensive Evaluation: We conduct thorough assessments to understand the root cause of your TMJ-related chronic pain, considering factors such as bite alignment, muscle function, and joint health.
    • Customized Treatment Plans: Based on your unique needs, we create personalized treatment plans that may include dental splints, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other interventions to alleviate chronic pain and improve jaw function.
    • Advanced Technology: We leverage state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and technologies to ensure accurate assessments and effective treatment.
    • Experienced Professionals: Our team comprises skilled professionals with expertise in TMJ disorders and orofacial pain management, ensuring you receive the highest quality care.
    • Holistic Approach: We take a holistic approach to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of TMJ-related chronic pain, promoting long-term relief and improved oral health.

    Take the First Step Towards Relief

    Don’t let chronic pain control your life. We understand the impact of chronic pain on your daily life. Our compassionate approach ensures that you receive the support and care you need throughout your treatment journey. Take the first step towards relief by scheduling a consultation with TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans today. Rediscover comfort, functionality, and a renewed sense of well-being with our specialized care. Contact Us Today!

    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.