As people age, it is common for them to experience hearing troubles. Many of them even have to deal with a persistent ringing in their ears, an issue known as tinnitus. But did you know that tinnitus is also common among people with TMJ disorder (TMD)? This blog post explores the connection between these two issues and discusses how you may be able to find relief.
TMD and Tinnitus: How Are They Connected?
A meta-analysis published in 2018 found that there is a higher prevalence in individuals with TMD than in individuals without TMD. A separate study, published in 2019, found that TMD-related tinnitus was more common among biological females, and they were younger on average than typical tinnitus patients.
What might explain the link between TMD and tinnitus? The most likely explanation is the fact that the TMJs (temporomandibular joints, which control movement of the lower jaw) are very close to the ears. When a TMJ becomes damaged or inflamed, that may have a direct effect on the cochlea, a structure in the inner ear that transforms sound waves into electrical impulses. There are tiny hair cells in the cochlea, and when they become damaged, it can lead to tinnitus.
Identifying TMD as a Cause of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can have a number of different causes. Here are some signs that your tinnitus might be related to the health of your TMJs:
- You frequently experience jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or limited jaw mobility.
- You tend to grind your teeth.
- You often experience headaches and neck pain.
- The jaw makes clicking or popping sounds.
If you suspect you have TMD, you should visit a qualified practitioner who has the training and experience necessary to diagnose your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
Can TMD Treatment Make Tinnitus Go Away?
TMD treatment can alleviate swelling and inflammation in the jaw joints. In turn, this may reduce the risk of damage to the inner ear and lead to a reduction (or possible elimination) of tinnitus. In fact, many people have noticed a significant decrease in tinnitus after starting treatment for TMJ disorder.
There are a number of different ways to address TMD, from home remedies that can provide temporary benefits to non-invasive professional therapies, such as braces or a custom oral orthotic, which address the root cause of the problem. A combination of these approaches may be the best way to produce short- and long-term symptom relief.
Ringing in your ears can downgrade your quality of life! It is worth your time to find out whether TMD is to blame for the problem.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Tom Hall is an experienced orthodontist in Houston who has a special interest in the treatment of TMJ disorder. He often uses a combination of therapies to help patients experience optimum results. If you have been struggling with symptoms of TMD, our team is ready to evaluate your case and recommend your next steps. Contact us at 713-862-8223.