San Francisco and Marin CA
Do You Experience Persistent Ear Ringing or Pain?
If you’ve been struggling with tinnitus—constant ringing in your ears—or ongoing ear pain, and traditional medical treatments haven’t provided answers or relief, it’s possible that the root cause is not just medical, but dental as well. A common underlying factor could be Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ Disorder), often linked to a misaligned bite, also known as malocclusion.
How Can TMJ Affect Your Ears?
TMJ Disorder is notoriously difficult to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with many other conditions. Many patients first visit their dentist after failing to find a diagnosis through medical doctors.
So, how does a jaw problem cause ear pain and ringing?
The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your skull, and when the bite is misaligned, it disrupts the natural positioning of the bones, muscles, joints, and tendons in your head and neck. This misalignment places extra strain on muscles connected to the ear, including the tensor tympani and tensor veli palatini, which are linked to the trigeminal nerve. As a result, this tension can cause both ear pain and tinnitus.
The Impact of Jaw Pain Extends Beyond the Head and Neck
TMJ issues don’t just cause localized discomfort. Because the body is intricately connected, a problem in your jaw can lead to widespread symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and persistent jaw pain. This interconnection means addressing TMJ symptoms early is crucial for your overall health.
At Glen Park Dental, We’re Dedicated to Helping You Find Lasting Relief
If you’re experiencing TMJ-related tinnitus, jaw pain, migraines, or clicking and popping in your jaw, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Without treatment, symptoms may worsen, turning occasional ear ringing and headaches into chronic, debilitating pain.
Common Treatments for TMJ Tinnitus and Pain Include:
- Orthodontics: Correcting a misaligned bite with braces or other orthodontic treatments is often the most effective way to treat TMJ disorder at its root.
- TENS Therapy: Gentle electrical stimulation helps relax tight jaw muscles, reducing pain and tension.
- Custom Orthotic Appliances: Designed using advanced jaw mapping technology, these devices reposition the jaw into a comfortable, natural alignment.
- Full Mouth Reconstruction: For severe cases, reshaping and rebuilding the teeth can improve bite function and relieve stress on the jaw muscles and joints.
At Glen Park Dental, we stay up to date with the latest techniques and technologies to provide you with effective TMJ treatment tailored to your needs.
Don’t Delay Your TMJ Treatment Any Longer
Ear ringing and pain may seem minor at first, but they can signal more serious underlying problems. TMJ disorder can also cause migraines, earaches, and shoulder tension—issues that can greatly disrupt your daily life.
Even if your symptoms are mild now, early intervention can prevent worsening problems. Our team at Glen Park Dental is ready to help you develop a personalized treatment plan to address your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Relief Today
If you suspect you might have TMJ disorder, contact Glen Park Dental for a thorough TMJ evaluation. Our experienced team will help you get a clear diagnosis and guide you through effective treatment options.
Call us at (415) 799-3900 or visit us at 4 Joost Ave, San Francisco, CA 94131 to schedule your consultation. Don’t let TMJ symptoms control your life—get the care you deserve.
