TMJ Trigger Points

    For Patients

    How TMJ Therapy Can Help Relieve Trigger Points

    Trigger points—tight, painful knots in muscles—can often be linked to issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). These points of tension can develop in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders, leading to widespread discomfort and reduced quality of life. TMJ dysfunction can exacerbate trigger points, creating a cycle of pain that requires targeted intervention.

    Symptoms of Trigger Points Related to TMJ Dysfunction

    • Localized Muscle Pain: Persistent tenderness or aching in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders due to muscle tightness.
    • Headaches: Trigger points can refer pain to the head, mimicking tension or migraine headaches.
    • Jaw Pain: Chronic TMJ dysfunction often leads to the development of trigger points in jaw muscles, making chewing or speaking uncomfortable.
    • Neck and Shoulder Tension: TMJ-related issues can contribute to trigger points in the upper back and shoulders, causing stiffness and reduced mobility.
    • Facial Sensitivity: Pain from trigger points may radiate to the face, resulting in heightened sensitivity or discomfort.

    How We Can Treat Trigger Point Pain

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we specialize in treating TMJ disorders and associated muscle conditions, including trigger points. Our holistic and non-invasive approach is designed to relieve tension, reduce pain, and restore muscle function.

    Our comprehensive treatments aim to:

    • Relax Tense Muscles: Target and release trigger points in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders to relieve pain.
    • Restore Jaw Alignment: Address TMJ dysfunction to minimize stress on surrounding muscles.
    • Enhance Mobility: Improve muscle flexibility and range of motion to prevent recurrence of trigger points.
    • Provide Long-Term Relief: Develop personalized treatment plans that promote lasting comfort and health.

    Don’t let trigger points and TMJ pain disrupt your life. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, our experienced team is here to help you achieve relief and reclaim your well-being. Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey toward a pain-free life.

     

    TMJ Trigger Points in New Orleans

      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.