Tinnitus & TMJ: Understanding the Connection

For most people, tinnitus—the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears—comes and goes. But for those who experience daily, persistent tinnitus, it can be disruptive and distressing. If your doctor hasn’t found a clear cause, your tinnitus may be linked to TMJ issues.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing sounds when no external noise is present. These sounds may be described as:

  • Ringing
  • Humming
  • Buzzing
  • Roaring
  • Clicking or hissing

Tinnitus can be constant or intermittent, affecting one or both ears. Its intensity may vary from day to day.

How TMJ Problems Can Cause Tinnitus

TMJ disorders can lead to:

  • Jaw pain or muscle tightness
  • Jaw clicking, popping, or locking (lockjaw)
  • Limited jaw movement
  • Headaches in the temples
  • A misaligned or uncomfortable bite

In some cases, tense jaw muscles or inflamed jaw joints can affect the Eustachian tube, tympanic membrane, or malleus bone, leading to ear symptoms like tinnitus.

Is Your Tinnitus TMJ-Related?

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Does your tinnitus intensity change from day to day?
  • Is your tinnitus more noticeable in the morning?
  • Does it change when you open or close your mouth?
  • Does moving your jaw side-to-side affect it?
  • Does moving your head change the intensity?

If you answered yes to any of these, your tinnitus may be linked to TMJ dysfunction.

TMJ Tinnitus Treatment at Point Richmond Dental Studio

We offer effective strategies to relieve TMJ-related tinnitus, including:

  • Custom oral appliances (nightguards & splints)
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Trigger point therapy & other therapeutic injections
  • Medications for inflammation & pain relief
  • Jaw exercises & self-massage techniques
  • Physical therapy
  • BOTOX® or other neurotoxin injections to relax overactive jaw muscles

Find Relief from TMJ-Related Tinnitus

If ear exams and hearing tests haven’t provided answers and you suspect your TMJ is the cause, we can help. Call Point Richmond Dental Studio at (510) 233-4470 to schedule an appointment today.