TMJ Pain

    For Patients

    TMJ Pain Relief in New Orleans

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we understand how debilitating TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) pain can be. Our specialized team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, helping you find relief and regain your quality of life.

    Understanding TMJ Pain

    TMJ pain originates from the temporomandibular joints, which connect your jawbone to your skull. These joints are essential for various movements, such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. When these joints or the surrounding muscles become dysfunctional or inflamed, it can lead to a range of painful symptoms collectively known as TMJ disorders.

    The causes of TMJ disorders can vary and may include:

    • Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
    • Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head can lead to TMJ disorders.
    • Bruxism: Chronic grinding or clenching of teeth, often due to stress.
    • Misalignment: Poor alignment of the teeth or jaw can contribute to TMJ issues.
    • Stress: Emotional stress can cause muscle tension, which may exacerbate TMJ pain.

    TMJ disorders can significantly impact your daily life, making simple activities like eating or speaking difficult and painful.

    Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

    TMJ disorders can manifest in various ways, affecting not just the jaw but also other parts of the head and neck. Common symptoms include:

    • Jaw Pain: Persistent pain or tenderness in the jaw, often worsening with movement.
    • Headaches: Frequent headaches or migraines that are difficult to relieve.
    • Ear Pain: Earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears without an infection.
    • Facial Pain: Pain radiating through the face, neck, and shoulders.
    • Clicking or Popping: Audible sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
    • Lockjaw: Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth fully.
    • Bruxism: Teeth grinding or clenching, often during sleep.

    Why Choose Us To For TMJ Pain Treatment?

    We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Our experienced practitioners use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately identify the root cause of your pain, ensuring a targeted and effective treatment plan.

    We offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, incorporating a range of therapies such as physical therapy, dental appliances, and lifestyle modifications. Our dedicated team creates a welcoming and supportive environment, ensuring you feel heard, understood, and comfortable throughout your treatment journey.

    Don’t let TMJ pain control your life. Contact the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, providing the expert care you need to achieve lasting relief.

    TMJ Pain 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.