Is There a Link Between Tinnitus and Temporomandibular Joint Issues?

Hello, I would like to ask if there is a relationship between high-frequency tinnitus and the temporomandibular joint?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing tinnitus for several years.
I have a high-frequency ringing in my right ear that sometimes gets a bit quieter, while the high-frequency ringing in my left ear is almost inaudible.
However, during the time before, during, and after sleep, the high-pitched tinnitus symptoms are persistent, especially when I wake up in the middle of the night, when the ringing in my left ear becomes louder.
About a year before the onset of the tinnitus in my right ear, I had pain in my temporomandibular joint (TMJ), but the pain subsided after a while.
I later consulted a doctor who mentioned that my jaw was slightly misaligned but that it wasn't a significant issue, and that I could be treated with a bite splint.
I would like to know if temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cause tinnitus.

xin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/23

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, I would like to ask if temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can cause tinnitus.
-> It is possible, but there are many causes of tinnitus.
These may include: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during activities like flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing the nose or bending over.
2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
3) Otitis media: a) Acute otitis media: Often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (such as colds) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be discharge from the ear.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: This usually occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can become inflamed due to contaminated water or improper ear cleaning.
-> All of the above conditions can be treated with medication through medical consultation for appropriate improvement.
It is advisable to seek medical evaluation and treatment if symptoms persist.
Wishing you peace and health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/23

More Info

Tinnitus, commonly referred to as ringing in the ears, is a condition that can be quite distressing for those who experience it. It can manifest as a variety of sounds, including ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking, and can vary in intensity and duration. Your question about the potential link between tinnitus and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues is a pertinent one, as there is indeed a recognized connection between the two.

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull and is responsible for movements such as chewing and speaking. TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, including jaw misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, or injury. Symptoms of TMJ disorders often include jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw. Interestingly, many individuals with TMJ disorders also report experiencing tinnitus.

The relationship between TMJ disorders and tinnitus is thought to be multifaceted. One theory suggests that the proximity of the TMJ to the ear structures may lead to overlapping symptoms. The muscles and nerves that control jaw movement are closely linked to the auditory system, and any dysfunction in the TMJ can potentially affect the auditory pathways, leading to tinnitus. Additionally, the stress and tension associated with TMJ disorders can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms, creating a cycle of discomfort.

In your case, the history of TMJ pain prior to the onset of your tinnitus could suggest a possible correlation. The fact that you experienced pain in the TMJ area and now have persistent high-frequency tinnitus, particularly in the context of stress or jaw clenching, supports the idea that your TMJ issues could be contributing to your tinnitus. The use of an occlusal splint, as recommended by your doctor, is a common treatment for TMJ disorders and can help alleviate symptoms by reducing strain on the jaw muscles and joints.

It's also important to consider other factors that could be contributing to your tinnitus. These may include exposure to loud noises, ear infections, hearing loss, or even certain medications. A comprehensive evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist may be beneficial to rule out other potential causes of your tinnitus and to explore treatment options.

In summary, there is a recognized link between tinnitus and temporomandibular joint issues. Your experience of tinnitus, particularly following a history of TMJ pain, suggests that your jaw condition may be influencing your auditory symptoms. It is advisable to continue working with your healthcare providers to manage both your TMJ disorder and tinnitus. They may recommend a combination of therapies, including physical therapy, stress management techniques, and possibly further dental interventions, to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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