Teeth Sensitivity

    For Patients

    Understanding Teeth Sensitivity and Its Link to TMJ

    Teeth sensitivity can be more than just a reaction to hot or cold foods—it may also be a symptom of an underlying TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. When the jaw joint and surrounding muscles are strained or misaligned, they can contribute to abnormal bite forces, teeth grinding, or clenching. These behaviors often lead to enamel wear, gum irritation, and ultimately, increased tooth sensitivity.

    TMJ-Related Causes of Teeth Sensitivity

    • Jaw Clenching & Bruxism: One of the most common TMJ-related habits is teeth grinding (bruxism), often occurring during sleep. This chronic pressure wears down enamel and can expose sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
    • Bite Misalignment: A misaligned bite associated with TMJ dysfunction can lead to uneven wear on teeth and overstimulation of the tooth’s nerve, contributing to discomfort.
    • Jaw Muscle Tension: Strained jaw muscles from TMJ can create pressure along the dental arches, leading to tenderness or heightened sensitivity in certain teeth.
    • Receding Gums & Inflammation: TMJ issues can contribute to inflammation in the oral and facial structures, which may increase gum recession and expose sensitive tooth roots.

    Managing Teeth Sensitivity Caused by TMJ

    • Address the Root Cause: TMJ therapy—such as splint therapy, bite adjustment, or muscle relaxation techniques—can significantly reduce grinding and clenching behaviors that lead to sensitivity.Use
    • Desensitizing Products: Toothpastes and mouth rinses made for sensitive teeth can provide temporary relief while you undergo TMJ treatment.
    • Reduce Jaw Strain: Avoid gum chewing, hard foods, and excessive talking to reduce jaw tension. Warm compresses and jaw exercises may also help.
    • Seek Professional Evaluation: If your sensitivity is accompanied by jaw clicking, facial pain, or headaches, a comprehensive TMJ assessment may be necessary.

    Tooth sensitivity linked to TMJ doesn’t have to be a permanent discomfort. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre, we’re here to help uncover the underlying causes and provide lasting relief with expert, personalized care.

    TMJ Teeth Sensitivity in New Orleans

    Why Choose Us For Tooth Sensitivity Relief?

    The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans is dedicated to providing expert care for TMJ disorders, including teeth sensitivity. Our team is skilled in the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques, allowing us to develop personalized plans that address the specific needs of each patient. With a holistic approach that considers all aspects of your health, we aim to provide lasting relief and improved well-being. Our state-of-the-art facility ensures you receive the highest standard of care in a comfortable and supportive environment.

    Trust the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans to help you achieve a pain-free life with specialized care tailored just for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward pain relief and improved wellbeing.

      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.