Pediatric TMJ & Sleep Therapy

    For Patients

    Pediatric Care at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans

    We understand that children can also be affected by Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders and sleep-related issues. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we are dedicated to providing specialized care for pediatric patients, ensuring that they can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling childhood.

    Early innervation is the critical process by which nerves in a child’s jaw and facial regions develop properly, ensuring healthy jaw movement, chewing, and speech capabilities. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we place a strong emphasis on the early identification and treatment of TMJ disorders to safeguard against improper nerve development. By intervening early, we aim to correct issues related to nerve innervation, thus preventing further complications in jaw functionality and development as children age. Our dedicated approach ensures that each child has the best possible foundation for healthy oral development.

    Pediatric TMJ & Sleep

    Why Pediatric Care Matters:

    Pediatric TMJ and sleep disorders can have a significant impact on a child’s development and overall well-being. Early intervention and proper treatment are essential for preventing long-term health concerns and ensuring that children can thrive.

    Our Pediatric Services:

    • Early Diagnosis: We offer comprehensive evaluations to detect TMJ and sleep-related issues in children at an early stage, allowing for timely intervention.
    • Customized Treatment: Our team creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique needs. We understand that children’s needs differ from those of adults, and our approach reflects this.
    • Parental Involvement: We actively involve parents and guardians in their child’s treatment plan, ensuring a collaborative effort to improve the child’s health.
    • Education: We believe in empowering both children and parents with knowledge about the condition and treatment options.

      Common Pediatric Symptoms:

      • Jaw Pain: Children may complain of jaw pain, which can often be overlooked or attributed to other causes.
      • Sleep Disturbances: Sleep issues like snoring or sleep apnea can affect a child’s overall health and daytime functioning.
      • Chronic Headaches: Frequent headaches can be an early sign of TMJ disorders in children.
      • Behavioral Changes: Sleep disorders can lead to irritability, mood swings, and changes in behavior in children.
      • Academic Performance: Poor sleep can affect a child’s academic performance and overall quality of life.

      Exclusive MyoBrace Provider in Louisiana

      The MyoBrace system is a revolutionary approach to orthodontics, focusing on natural growth and development without the need for braces or invasive procedures. Our exclusive access to this treatment positions us at the forefront of pediatric dental care, enabling us to provide our young patients and their families with a proactive and preventive solution to orthodontic issues. By choosing our center, parents are ensuring their children receive the most innovative and effective care available in the state, guided by our dedicated team of professionals committed to fostering healthy smiles from a young age.

      At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we are proud to stand as the sole certified provider of the MyoBrace treatment system in Louisiana. This distinction allows us to offer a unique and advanced solution for correcting poor oral habits in children, which are the underlying causes of misaligned teeth and improper jaw development.

      We Can Help!

        We are committed to addressing these issues in children to ensure they have the best possible start in life. Our goal is to provide pediatric patients with effective treatment that allows them to enjoy their childhood, grow, and develop to their full potential.

        If you suspect that your child may be experiencing symptoms related to TMJ disorders or sleep problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to help, and we look forward to making a positive difference in the lives of the young patients we serve.

        Contact us to schedule an evaluation and learn more about our pediatric care services at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of 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.