Fatigue Relief in New Orleans

    For Patients

    Fatigue & TMJ-Related Exhaustion in New Orleans

    Feeling tired all the time isn’t normal — especially when rest doesn’t seem to help. Many patients experiencing constant fatigue or chronic fatigue are surprised to learn that jaw tension, sleep disruption, and airway issues may be contributing factors.

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we help uncover hidden connections between jaw function, sleep quality, and daytime energy levels.

    Understanding TMJ and Fatigue

    The relationship between TMJ and fatigue is often overlooked. When the jaw muscles and joints are under constant strain — especially during sleep — the body never fully rests. This can lead to poor sleep quality, frequent awakenings, and long-term exhaustion.

    TMJ-Related Fatigue May Be Associated With:

    • Jaw clenching or teeth grinding during sleep
    • Disrupted breathing or airway restriction
    • Poor sleep efficiency despite adequate time in bed
    • Morning headaches or facial soreness
    • Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”

    For many patients, TMJ fatigue is not about how long they sleep — it’s about how well they sleep.

    A Comprehensive Approach to Chronic Fatigue

    If you’ve been searching for a fatigue doctor near me and haven’t found clear answers, it may be time to look beyond traditional causes. Our approach focuses on identifying whether jaw dysfunction or sleep-related breathing issues are contributing to your chronic fatigue.

    We use detailed evaluations of jaw position, muscle tension, airway health, and sleep patterns to determine whether TMJ-related factors may be impacting your energy levels. Treatment plans are customized and may include oral appliances, jaw therapy, or sleep-focused support — all designed to help your body truly rest and recover.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Fatigue Treatment in New Orleans

    Q. Can TMJ cause fatigue?

    A. Yes. Many patients experience TMJ and fatigue together because jaw tension, clenching, or airway disruption can interfere with deep, restorative sleep.

    Q. Why do I feel constant fatigue even after sleeping?

    A. Constant fatigue can occur when sleep is fragmented or inefficient. TMJ-related muscle tension or breathing interruptions may prevent the body from reaching deeper stages of rest.

    Q. What is the difference between fatigue and chronic fatigue?

    A. Fatigue is occasional tiredness, while chronic fatigue is persistent exhaustion that lasts weeks or months and does not improve with rest. Identifying underlying contributors is key to treatment.

    Q. Can a dentist help with fatigue?

    A. In some cases, yes. When fatigue is linked to jaw tension, clenching, or sleep-disordered breathing, a TMJ-focused dental evaluation can uncover contributing factors that are often missed.

    Q. How is TMJ fatigue treated?

    A. TMJ fatigue treatment may involve oral appliances, muscle relaxation strategies, and therapies designed to reduce jaw strain and improve sleep quality.

    Q. When should I see a fatigue doctor near me?

    A. If fatigue is ongoing, affecting daily life, or accompanied by jaw pain, headaches, or poor sleep, it’s worth exploring whether TMJ or sleep-related issues may be involved.
    Common Questions about Fatigue Relief 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.