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:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8638311/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6736614/
3. https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/therapy-and-treatment-options/tmj-treatments/ 

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Snoring or Difficulty Breathing

Snoring is one of the most common signs of OSA. This symptom combined with difficulty breathing through your nose (which can often create the snoring that comes with mouth breathing during sleep) are signs that you need to be evaluated for sleep apnea. This includes if you have sinus trouble or trouble breathing through your nose as a result of allergies.

Headaches and Fatigue

If you have headaches upon waking, this could be a sign that your body isn’t getting the proper amount of oxygen while sleeping due to obstructed breathing. Fatigue during the day may indicate that you aren’t getting the proper rest you need because of constant waking during the night to resume normal breathing. See your doctor—you may have OSA!

Obesity and Large Neck Circumference

If you’re obese and have a large neck, the size and mass of your neck could be contributing to obstructive sleep apnea. This is because the muscles that help control your airway may collapse during sleep, leading to an inability to breathe. Obesity is a risk factor for OSA and combined with other symptoms such as snoring and fatigue, could indicate OSA.

Being Restless, Irritable, and Unfocused

Not being able to sleep properly can make you restless at night. If you have trouble sleeping, an obstructed airway could be preventing you from getting a proper night’s rest. This may lead you to be irritable and unfocused the next day, especially as the problem continues over time. You may not be able to concentrate or have trouble regulating your moods. Your doctor can refer you to a sleep specialist to see if OSA could be the culprit behind your symptoms.

Jaw Pain or Acid Reflux

Did you know that having temporomandibular joint disorder (often referred to as TMJ or TMD) can influence whether or not you have OSA? This is because your jaw determines the position of your tongue in the mouth. When your jaw is misaligned, your airway can easily become obstructed by improper tongue placement during sleep.

There may also be a link between acid reflux and sleep apnea, although the connection isn’t clear yet—some researchers speculate that acid reflux may cause the muscles that control the airway to spasm during sleep, therefore resulting in breathing problems.

Having a Family History of OSA

Always know your family’s medical history—a family history of OSA or another type of sleep apnea is a risk factor in whether or not you will develop sleep apnea!

Obstructive sleep apnea is a dangerous sleep disorder that can increase your risk for chronic diseases and even premature death. Get evaluated by a physician for sleep apnea if you have any of the above signs—a simple oral sleep appliance can help keep your airway open during sleep and result in a proper night’s rest and better health!

The post What Are the Signs That You Should Be Evaluated for Obstructive Sleep Apnea? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.