Jaw Clenching

    For Patients

    Understanding Jaw Clenching and TMJ Bruxism

    Jaw clenching, also known as bruxism, is a common condition characterized by the involuntary and excessive grinding or clenching of teeth. This repetitive behavior often occurs during sleep but can also happen during waking hours. Jaw clenching can contribute to a range of symptoms and complications, affecting your oral health and overall well-being.

    Symptoms of Jaw Clenching

    • Facial Pain: Persistent pain in the jaw, face, or neck can be a result of prolonged jaw clenching.
    • Headaches: Regular headaches, especially in the morning, may be linked to tension from bruxism.
    • Tooth Sensitivity: Grinding can lead to increased tooth sensitivity or damage to dental work.
    • Fatigue: TMJ Bruxism can contribute to disrupted sleep patterns, leading to daytime fatigue.
    • TMJ Disorders: Chronic jaw clenching may contribute to or exacerbate TMJ disorders.

    How We Can Help

    At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing effective solutions for jaw clenching and TMJ-related bruxism.  Don’t let jaw clenching disrupt your life. Trust the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans to provide compassionate and effective solutions for TMJ-related issues. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free smile.

    TMJ Jaw Clenching in New Orleans

    Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Clenching Relief in New Orleans

    Q. What causes jaw clenching?

    A. Jaw clenching is often an unconscious habit that can occur during the day or while sleeping. Common causes include stress, anxiety, bite imbalance, and airway-related sleep issues. Over time, repeated clenching can strain the jaw joint and muscles, leading to TMJ discomfort, headaches, and facial tension.

    Q. What does it mean if I’m clenching my jaw at night?

    A. Clenching jaw at night is very common and often happens without the patient realizing it. Nighttime clenching may be linked to sleep disruptions, airway obstruction, or the body’s response to stress. Because the jaw muscles remain active during sleep, this can prevent proper rest and contribute to morning jaw soreness.

    Q. Can you clench your jaw unconsciously?

    A. Yes. Many patients are unconsciously clenching jaw muscles throughout the day, especially during focused tasks like working, driving, or using screens. Because it becomes a subconscious habit, jaw clenching can persist for months or years before symptoms appear.

    Q. What symptoms are associated with chronic jaw clenching?

    A. Persistent jaw clenching can lead to several TMJ-related symptoms, including:

    • Jaw pain or tightness
    • Clicking or popping in the joint
    • Headaches or migraines
    • Tooth sensitivity or wear
    • Facial muscle fatigue
    • Neck and shoulder tension

    If these symptoms occur regularly, a TMJ evaluation may be helpful.

    Q. What is the best jaw clenching treatment?

    A. Effective jaw clenching treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, treatment options may include:

    • Custom oral appliances to reduce nighttime clenching
    • TMJ therapy to relieve muscle tension
    • Bite stabilization and joint support
    • Evaluation of airway and sleep-related breathing issues
    • Our goal is to reduce strain on the jaw and prevent long-term damage.

    Q. When should I see a TMJ specialist for jaw clenching?

    A. If you frequently wake up with jaw soreness, experience facial pain, or suspect nighttime clenching, it’s important to seek professional care. Early treatment can prevent worsening TMJ symptoms and protect your teeth and jaw joints over time.
    Get Relief Now

      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.