Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and surrounding tissues, causing varying degrees of discomfort.
The TMJ acts as a sliding hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull. When issues arise, they can cause unpleasant symptoms such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and a popping sound when opening the mouth.
Among these symptoms, many people wonder whether TMJ disorders can also cause ear pain or tinnitus, characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds in the ear. Can TMJ cause these problems? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is the Connection Between TMJ and Ear Pain?
Ear pain is a common symptom for people suffering from TMJ disorders. The temporomandibular joints are located close to the ear, which can lead to referred pain. Referred pain occurs when an issue in one part of the body causes discomfort in another, seemingly unrelated part.
In this instance, problems with the TMJ can cause pain that is perceived in the ear area. The earache resulting from TMJ disorders can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, either intermittently or persistently.
Many people are surprised to find that ear pain is a common symptom of TMJ. In one study, 46% of patients with ear pain were also diagnosed with TMJ dysfunction [1].
TMJ and Tinnitus
Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing noise in the ears, can be another frustrating symptom of TMJ disorders. Research shows a strong connection between TMJ disorders and tinnitus: 60% of TMJ patients experience tinnitus, significantly higher than the 15-30% rate seen in the general population [2].
The exact relationship between TMJ disorders and tinnitus is not fully understood, but experts suspect the following connections between the two issues:
- Shared nerve pathways. The nerves that provide sensation and control the muscles of the TMJ also have connections to the auditory pathways. Dysfunction in these nerves due to TMJ issues could lead to tinnitus.
- Muscle tension. The muscles surrounding the TMJ can become tense or overworked in response to joint problems, potentially affecting the tiny muscles in the ear responsible for stabilizing ossicle movement, contributing to tinnitus.
- Inflammation spread. Inflammation within the TMJ or nearby ligaments can extend to the region of the ears, altering the ear’s function.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you suspect that you might have a TMJ disorder and experience symptoms like ear pain or tinnitus, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Often, dentists who specialize in TMJ disorders can provide insights into the best course of action tailored to your specific condition [3]. There are many options for treating TMJ and tinnitus that can help reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Taking the Next Step
Don’t let TMJ discomfort affect your quality of life through ear pain and tinnitus. Contact your dentist today to learn more about diagnosis and treatment options for TMJ disorders. Your path to relief and recovery is closer than you think!
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8638311/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6736614/
- https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/therapy-and-treatment-options/tmj-treatments/Â
