TMJ Jaw Popping
TMJ Jaw Popping: Understanding and Treating
Are you experiencing a popping sensation in your jaw? Jaw popping, often associated with a clicking or cracking sound, is a common symptom of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. At The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, helping you find relief from this uncomfortable and often painful condition.
What is Jaw Popping and How Does It Relate to TMJ?
Jaw popping occurs when the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull, becomes misaligned or experiences abnormal movement. This joint is responsible for the smooth motion of your jaw as you speak, chew, and yawn. When it’s not functioning properly, you might hear or feel a popping sound.
TMJ disorders can be caused by various factors, including injury to the jaw, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), or stress. When the temporomandibular joint is compromised, the disc that cushions the joint may slip out of place, leading to popping or clicking sounds. This can also cause other symptoms, such as pain, difficulty in opening or closing the mouth, headaches, and even earaches.
Symptoms of Jaw Popping
If you are experiencing jaw popping, you may also notice some of the following symptoms:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw: Discomfort may occur on one or both sides of the face, especially when chewing or talking.
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth: You might feel like your jaw is stuck or locked in a certain position.
- Headaches or migraines: TMJ disorders are often linked to tension headaches.
- Ear pain or ringing: The temporomandibular joint is located near the ear, so issues with the joint can cause symptoms in the ear as well.
Why Choose Us For Jaw Pain Treatment?
At The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we offer comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced team understands the complexities of TMJ disorders and utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately assess your condition. We offer a range of treatment options, including custom oral appliances, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications, all designed to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
If jaw popping is affecting your daily life, Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you restore comfort and functionality to your jaw with our expert TMJ treatments.
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.