Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can potentially cause tinnitus or make existing tinnitus worse. These conditions affect the jaw joint and surrounding structures, which are very close to the ear.
Tinnitus is when a person hears sounds that are not externally present. These sounds could be ringing, buzzing, whooshing, or clicking.
Hearing loss, wax buildup, and certain medications can all cause tinnitus, but TMJ disorders can too. If this is the case, people may notice the sounds improve when their TMJ problems improve, and vice versa.
In this article, we explore the relationship between TMJ disorders and tinnitus, how they relate to one another, management techniques, and when to contact a doctor.
Yes, there is some evidence that temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause or worsen tinnitus.
A
A 2019 study also notes that some researchers think people with tinnitus due to TMJ problems could represent a distinct subtype of the condition. In the study, the authors found that people who reported both were more likely to:
It is unclear why more women are represented in studies on this form of tinnitus.
Some individuals can also alter the intensity of their tinnitus by moving their mouth, jaw, face, and neck. This is known as somatosensory tinnitus.
According to Tinnitus UK, there are three main theories about why TMJ problems can lead to tinnitus. TMJ disorders may affect the:
- Muscles: The muscles that control the TMJ are very close to the ears, and some are close to muscles that connect to the middle ear. If these muscles are damaged or not functioning as they should, it could affect a person’s sense of sound.
- Ligaments: A ligament that attaches to the jaw also connects to a bone in the middle ear that plays a role in hearing. If the ligament becomes inflamed, overworked, or strained, it could potentially affect tinnitus.
- Nerves: The nerves from the jaw joint link to parts of the brain that handle hearing and interpreting sounds. Complications affecting this nerve may also affect how individuals hear and perceive sounds.
A person may suspect that TMJ disorder is causing their tinnitus if they notice that the symptoms of both get worse at the same time.
For example, a person who grinds their teeth at night may find that on nights when they clench more, the ringing in their ears gets louder. When they experience less grinding, the ringing may quieten.
However, many things can cause or contribute to tinnitus, and the relationship may not always be clear. A doctor may be able to help identify an underlying cause.
First, they will ask about a person’s medical history and any medications they take. Then they may perform a physical exam of the head, neck, and ears.
They may check for earwax or fluid from an ear infection that could be blocking the ear canal. If they cannot identify a cause, they may refer a person to an audiologist to check their hearing.
If a doctor suspects that TMJ disorder could be contributing to tinnitus, they may also refer an individual to an otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, to assess the structural integrity of the TMJ.
The ENT may order imaging tests, especially if the tinnitus
- X-rays
- MRI scan
- CT scan
- arthroscopy, which involves inserting a tiny camera into joints
- ultrasound
Imaging tests can help reveal whether a structural problem or underlying medical condition is causing tinnitus.
Tinnitus is
If a TMJ disorder is the sole cause of tinnitus, treatment for TMJ disorders may help to improve the symptoms. In some cases, they might resolve entirely. But this will depend on what is causing the sounds.
Treatment for TMJ disorders varies depending on the type of condition a person has. Some examples of treatments include:
- Medication: A doctor may prescribe medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Lifestyle changes: Avoiding excessive jaw movement may help with TMJ problems. If someone has bruxism or teeth clenching, they may need to avoid chewing gum or biting their nails. They can also eat softer foods and take steps to reduce stress.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist may recommend stretches, exercise, and muscle release techniques to reduce tension and improve jaw function.
- Dental treatment: People with TMJ disorder due to misaligned teeth or dental problems may benefit from dental care to align their bite. People with bruxism may also find that wearing a mouth guard reduces pressure.
- Surgery: If other treatments do not work, a doctor may recommend surgery.
In addition to medical interventions, certain home care strategies may help alleviate tinnitus symptoms due to TMJ disorders, such as:
- Jaw exercises: Jaw exercises may help reduce muscular tension and pain, while also strengthening the jaw.
- Relaxation techniques: Relaxation exercises may help reduce stress and help improve sleep, which could alleviate certain TMJ disorders such as bruxism.
- Sound therapy: This involves using sound from white noise machines, sound generators, or music
to help mask the perception of tinnitus sounds, making them less noticeable.
If tinnitus symptoms are persistent, severe, or suddenly worsen, along with accompanying symptoms such as dizziness or hearing loss, this may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Individuals should see a doctor promptly.
While the relationship between TMJ disorders and tinnitus is complex, there is evidence to suggest a potential connection between the two conditions. Addressing TMJ disorders through various treatment options may help alleviate tinnitus symptoms that are present as a result of a TMJ disorder.
Home care strategies and relaxation techniques can also complement medical interventions in managing tinnitus symptoms, although individual responses to treatment may vary.
If an individual is experiencing persistent or bothersome tinnitus, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.