If you experience a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears, you may be familiar with tinnitus. This condition can be both frustrating and debilitating, affecting your daily life. What many people don’t realize is that tinnitus can be closely linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. At Dr. Priya Mistry’s practice in Vancouver, WA, we provide comprehensive care for patients dealing with TMJ and related conditions, including tinnitus. Let’s explore the connection between these two issues and how treatment can help relieve both.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is often described as a ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sound in the ears. It can occur in one or both ears and can vary in intensity, sometimes being constant and other times intermittent. While tinnitus is not a disease in itself, it is a symptom of an underlying issue.
Many factors can contribute to tinnitus, including hearing loss, ear infections, or even exposure to loud noises. However, one often-overlooked cause of tinnitus is a dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull and plays a crucial role in allowing movement, such as chewing, talking, and yawning. When this joint is not functioning correctly, it can lead to a range of issues collectively referred to as TMJ disorders. Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Headaches or migraines
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
Many patients with TMJ disorders also experience symptoms of tinnitus, leading to the question: Is there a link between the two?
The Link Between Tinnitus and TMJ Disorders
Recent studies have shown that there is a significant connection between TMJ disorders and tinnitus. The muscles surrounding the jaw, neck, and ears are interconnected, and when the TMJ is misaligned or strained, it can affect the muscles around the ear. This can lead to increased pressure and cause or worsen tinnitus symptoms.
In addition, the jaw joint and the ear share a nerve, called the trigeminal nerve, which transmits sensations to both the jaw and the ear. When the TMJ is out of alignment or functioning improperly, this nerve can become irritated, potentially leading to the sensation of ringing in the ears.
How Dr. Priya Mistry Can Help
At Dr. Priya Mistry’s practice in Vancouver, WA, we take a holistic approach to treating TMJ disorders and their related symptoms, such as tinnitus. Dr. Mistry uses a combination of therapies and treatments to address the root cause of both conditions. Here’s how she can help:
- TMJ Orthotics: One of the first steps in treating TMJ-related tinnitus is realigning the jaw. Dr. Mistry may recommend a TMJ orthotic, which is a custom-made device designed to reposition the jaw and alleviate pressure on the TMJ. By improving jaw alignment, many patients experience a reduction in both jaw pain and tinnitus symptoms.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Mistry will perform a thorough examination to assess the health of your TMJ and determine if it could be contributing to your tinnitus. She will consider your medical history, any jaw or facial pain, and other factors to develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Physical Therapy and Exercises: Dr. Mistry incorporates specific exercises aimed at improving jaw mobility and strengthening the muscles that support the TMJ. By targeting the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles, these exercises can help relieve tension and reduce symptoms of tinnitus.
- Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate both TMJ disorders and tinnitus, Dr. Mistry emphasizes the importance of stress management techniques. Relaxation practices, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation, can reduce tension in the jaw muscles and help alleviate tinnitus.
- Holistic Care: At Dr. Mistry’s practice, the focus is not just on treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes. This approach helps reduce the risk of recurrence and provides long-term relief for patients struggling with both TMJ issues and tinnitus.
Get Relief from Tinnitus and TMJ Disorders Today
If you’re suffering from tinnitus and believe it may be linked to a TMJ disorder, you don’t have to live with the discomfort. Dr. Priya Mistry offers effective treatment options designed to relieve both conditions and restore your quality of life.
Contact Dr. Priya Mistry’s office in Vancouver, WA today to schedule a consultation. By addressing the root cause of your TMJ and tinnitus, you can take the first step toward lasting relief and improved well-being.
