TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, is a common condition with a variety of possible causes. Among the various causes of this condition are trauma or the misalignment of teeth. Additionally, it is a condition which can lead to further, more serious problems, such as Tinnitus. Fortunately, there are some solutions. Let’s take a look at TMJ in more detail.
It might be possible that you or someone you know has experienced this condition at some point in your life. It can arise in varying degrees of severity, and many people have it for years without knowing it. It is often only when it gets worse that it becomes more evident. The most common sign of this condition is the locked jaw. It might be that the jaw becomes locked in place during eating, for example, or even while asleep. Plenty of people have experienced this uncomfortable phenomenon. However, not everyone is aware of its relation to other health matters.
In fact, this locked jaw symptom can itself be related to the ringing in the ears, often referred to as Tinnitus. Many studies have found there to be a strong correlation between TMJ and Tinnitus. Patients suffering from the former are more likely also to experience the latter. The same kind of association has also been noted in individuals suffering from a head or neck injury. Still, why might it be that a condition such as TMJ could be related to ringing in the ears?
Well, there are three main theories, and each of them has convincing elements to them. One theory recognizes the fact that the chewing muscles are situated very close to the inner ear muscles. It would therefore not be inconceivable that a locked jaw might have this effect. Another theory states that there is a direct link between the ligaments of the jaw and the bones of the inner ear. Lastly, another theory makes it clear that TMJ has connections with those parts of the brain associated with sound processing.
Whatever the underlying cause might be, there is good news for sufferers of TMJ. First of all, symptoms may be alleviated by performing individual sets of exercises at home. If you find yourself suffering from Tinnitus, it might help to practice opening your mouth as much as possible. You might even want to pull down on your chin – but don’t cause yourself any pain. You could also carry out a tooth tap. Just tap on your teeth while smiling – this process has even been known to reduce stress and tension.
However, you might find that these exercises only go a certain amount of the way towards solving the problem. For most Tinnitus sufferers, the TMJ itself will need to be treated properly. GBP Dental could help by recommending a structural apparatus for your teeth and jaw. This could be as simple as something like bit guard or retainer, or it could be something more complex, depending on the severity of your TMJ. Either way, GBP Dental is likely to be able to help you with your problem. If you are concerned about your TMJ, then don’t suffer in silence.