TMJ can cause tinnitus due to overstimulated tensor muscles affecting the inner ear. Treatment for TMJ and tinnitus depends on relieving TMJ symptoms, but tinnitus can be managed with medications and noise suppression techniques. Diagnosis is confirmed with imaging tests, and treatment approaches include surgery, medication, and masking devices.
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) are commonly associated with the development of tinnitus. Although rare, individuals with TMJ will sometimes develop constant ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, due to overstimulated tensor muscles negatively affecting the inner ear. Treatment for TMJ and tinnitus generally depends on relieving the TMJ symptoms. In the meantime, however, tinnitus symptoms can be managed with the use of medications and noise suppression techniques.
Individuals generally develop TMJ and tinnitus when their temporomandibular joint becomes damaged due to injury or disease. It is not uncommon for individuals with systemic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, to develop TMJ symptoms as a result of joint degeneration. Regardless of the cause, joint damage associated with TMJ can cause the affected muscles to work overtime, creating sensitivity and tenderness in the inner ear, especially the Eustachian tube. Constant overstimulation of the affected muscles can result in a persistent buzzing or high-pitched sound.
A diagnosis of TMJ is usually confirmed with the administration of imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan and an X-ray, to assess the extent of joint damage. Those experiencing tinnitus symptoms may have further tests, including a hearing test, to determine the severity of their condition. In some cases, a dental evaluation may also be performed if the individual has dental problems that may be causing or causing symptoms of TMJ and tinnitus, such as ill-fitting dentures or teeth grinding.
Individuals with TMJ will usually experience facial discomfort, an impaired ability to bite and chew, and headaches. Aside from the grinding or clicking noise that frequently accompanies temporomandibular joint disorders, individuals with TMJ and tinnitus symptoms will experience a persistent hissing, ringing, or buzzing sound in the affected ear. Some individuals with TMJ and tinnitus may experience discomfort in the head and neck area, as well as episodes of dizziness and ear discomfort.
When TMJ is the underlying cause of tinnitus symptoms and the condition is moderate to severe, a variety of treatment approaches can be used. Some individuals may have corrective surgery to repair or restore the temporomandibular joint so it can function normally. Corticosteroid and pain reliever medications can also relieve inflammation and discomfort. Various approaches can be used to relieve tinnitus symptoms, including the use of white noise machines and antidepressant medications. Some individuals may also find relief with the use of masking devices that emit a low-level tone that helps curb hearing symptoms.
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