Jaw Locking Treatment in New Orleans

    For Patients

    Jaw Locking & Lock Jaw Treatment in New Orleans

    Jaw locking can be alarming — whether your mouth gets stuck open, closed, or feels like it “catches” during movement. Many patients experiencing lock jaw, jaw lock, or jaw locking up don’t realize these symptoms are often linked to TMJ dysfunction.

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we help identify the cause of jaw locking and provide conservative, personalized care to restore comfortable jaw movement.

    What Causes Jaw Locking?

    Jaw locking occurs when the temporomandibular joint is unable to move smoothly. This may happen when the joint disc shifts, muscles tighten, or inflammation restricts motion. Episodes can range from brief stiffness to complete inability to open or close the mouth.

    Common Jaw Locking Symptoms Include:

    • Sudden jaw lock when opening or closing
    • Jaw getting stuck open or closed
    • Clicking or popping before locking
    • Pain or pressure near the ear or jaw joint
    • Muscle tightness or spasms
    • Fear of movement due to repeated locking

    If your jaw is locking up, early evaluation is important to prevent worsening symptoms.

    Lock Jaw Treatment and TMJ Care

    There is no one-size-fits-all lock jaw treatment — effective care depends on what’s causing the joint to restrict movement. Our approach focuses on reducing strain on the TMJ and restoring proper jaw function.

    • Treatment plans may include:
    • Oral appliances to support jaw positioning
    • Muscle relaxation and TMJ-focused therapy
    • Guidance for safe jaw movement
    • Addressing clenching or grinding habits

    For patients wondering about open lock TMJ or how to prevent future episodes, conservative therapy often provides significant relief without invasive procedures. Contact the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans for more information or to book an appointment.

    Common Questions about Jaw Locking in New Orleans

    Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Locking Treatment in New Orleans

    Q. What is lock jaw?

    A. Lock jaw refers to a condition where the jaw becomes stuck or difficult to move due to TMJ dysfunction, muscle spasm, or disc displacement within the joint.

    Q. Why does my jaw keep locking up?

    A. Jaw locking up may occur due to joint inflammation, muscle tension, clenching, or disc movement problems. Repeated episodes often indicate an underlying TMJ issue that needs evaluation.

    Q. How do I fix lock jaw immediately?

    A. Many patients ask how to fix lock jaw immediately, but forcing the jaw can worsen symptoms. Gentle techniques and professional guidance are safer than attempting sudden movements at home.

    Q. What is open lock TMJ?

    A. Open lock TMJ occurs when the jaw becomes stuck in an open position and cannot close properly. This can be distressing and typically requires TMJ-focused care to prevent recurrence.

    Q. Are there lock jaw remedies that actually work?

    A. Effective lock jaw remedy options focus on addressing the root cause — not just the symptoms. Oral appliances and TMJ therapy are commonly used to restore normal jaw movement.

    Q. When should I seek lock jaw treatment?

    A. If jaw locking is recurring, painful, or interfering with daily activities, professional lock jaw treatment can help reduce episodes and improve long-term jaw function.
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      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.