Can temporomandibular joint disorders cause tinnitus? Is there a connection to occipital pain?
I would like to ask if temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can lead to tinnitus? What about pain at the back of the head? (Lying down, pressing on the head, turning the head, and looking up makes it more pronounced) It feels like a prickly, warm, dull pain.
I have been wearing a bite splint, but I have only been using it for two weeks, and it doesn't seem to be improving...
Should I wear it for a longer period? If it is a joint issue, will the tinnitus and headache disappear once the joint stabilizes? I have also undergone hearing tests and auditory brainstem response tests at a major hospital's otolaryngology department, both of which were normal.
Additionally, I visited a neurologist, and blood tests were also normal.
Yue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/28
Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: Temporomandibular joint pain can indeed radiate from the temporalis muscle area to the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles.
In addition to wearing an occlusal splint, it is recommended to use heat therapy and medication.
You may also consider consulting with the oral surgery department at a nearby medical center.
Reply Date: 2024/07/28
More Info
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can indeed be associated with various symptoms, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and occipital pain (pain at the back of the head). The relationship between TMJ disorders and these symptoms can be explained through several mechanisms.
Firstly, TMJ disorders often involve dysfunction or inflammation of the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. This joint is located very close to the ear, and any inflammation or dysfunction can potentially affect the structures of the ear, leading to tinnitus. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed that the proximity of the TMJ to the auditory system allows for the transmission of pain or dysfunction, resulting in auditory symptoms.
Secondly, the muscles involved in TMJ function are closely related to the muscles of the neck and head. Tension or spasms in these muscles can lead to referred pain, which may manifest as occipital pain. When the jaw is not aligned properly, it can create additional strain on the surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort that may be felt in the back of the head.
Regarding your experience with wearing a bite guard (occlusal splint), it is common for patients to take some time to notice significant improvements. The bite guard is designed to help realign the jaw and reduce the strain on the TMJ and surrounding muscles. It may take several weeks for the muscles to relax and for the joint to stabilize. If you have only been wearing the bite guard for two weeks, it is advisable to continue using it as prescribed. Consistency is key, and many patients report gradual improvement over time.
If the symptoms persist despite continued use of the bite guard, it may be beneficial to follow up with your dentist or a specialist in TMJ disorders. They may recommend additional treatments, such as physical therapy, stress management techniques, or further evaluation to rule out other underlying conditions.
In terms of whether stabilizing the joint will lead to the resolution of tinnitus and occipital pain, many patients do experience relief from these symptoms once the TMJ is properly aligned and functioning. However, this is not guaranteed for everyone, as tinnitus can have multiple causes, and not all are related to TMJ disorders. If your symptoms do not improve, further investigation may be warranted to explore other potential causes.
In summary, TMJ disorders can indeed lead to tinnitus and occipital pain due to the anatomical and functional relationships between the jaw, ear, and neck. Continued use of your bite guard is recommended, and if symptoms persist, further evaluation and treatment may be necessary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.
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