Random Jaw pain and headaches are some of the most common symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorder. However, you may be surprised to know that there are underlying conditions linked to TMJ. One of them, which is often overlooked, is dizziness. The sudden onset of lightheadedness might puzzle you, but it’s an issue that should not be ignored. In this blog post, we are going to dive deeper into understanding the relationship between TMJ and dizziness, its potential causes and symptoms, and how you can effectively manage it. Let’s get started.
What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular is a joint which connects the jawbone and our skull. This joint plays an essential role in our daily activities, like speaking, chewing, and yawning. Any time when this joint is inflamed or dysfunctional, it can lead to TMJ, i.e. Temporomandibular disorder. From chronic migraines and stiff and clicking jaw to constant pain in biting and chewing – the condition can deteriorate quickly if not treated at the right time.
What Does TMJ Feel Like? Symptoms And Signs
There are a multitude of symptoms concerning TMJ. It becomes difficult to examine and pinpoint that the patient is indeed suffering from TMJ. Consulting an orthodontist will bring you clarity and understanding in taking the next steps.Some of the most common symptoms and signs that indicate TMJ are:
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Headaches
Frequent headaches are a common symptom of TMJ. These headaches are typically tension-type and can range from mild to severe, often affecting the temples and the back of the head.
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Jaw & Facial Pain
Jaw and facial pain are hallmark symptoms of TMJ. The pain can be localized around the jaw joint, but it may also radiate to the cheeks, ears, and even the neck. This discomfort is often exacerbated by activities that put pressure on the jaw, such as chewing or talking.
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Tinnitus
Tinnitus is another symptom associated with TMJ. The proximity of the temporomandibular joint to the ear structures means that inflammation or misalignment can lead to auditory disturbances.
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Bite Problem
TMJ can cause misalignment of the teeth, resulting in an uneven bite. This can make chewing difficult and may lead to further complications if left untreated.
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Balance Problems
Due to the complex network of nerves and muscles connected to the temporomandibular joint, TMJ can also affect balance. Dizziness and a sense of instability are not uncommon, making daily activities more challenging.
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Pain in the Upper Back
Pain and tension can extend to the upper back and shoulders. This is often a result of muscle strain caused by the misalignment or improper functioning of the jaw joint.
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Tingling or Numbness in Fingers
Some individuals with TMJ may experience tingling or numbness in their fingers. This can be attributed to nerve compression or tension originating from the neck and jaw area.
How Are TMJ and Dizziness Connected?
The connection between TMJ and dizziness lies in the complex anatomy of the temporomandibular joint and its structure. As it is located close to the inner ear, it’s responsible for maintaining the balance. A minor inflammation can trigger pressure on the nerves and muscles that are shared with the inner ear. This irritation can lead to dizziness and vertigo, followed by nausea and vomiting.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
Over the course, certain factors can cause the development of TMJ disorder. Below mentioned are some of the most noticeable ones:
- Trauma or Injury Development
- Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis
- Bruxism
- Stress and anxiety
- Muscle tension and jaw clenching
- Poor posture
- Excessive chewing or biting of nails
Understanding these contributing factors is essential for identifying and managing TMJ effectively.
How Are TMJ Disorders Treated?
Treating TMJ disorders requires guidance from professionals. It can be managed through various treatments. Some of the most effective treatments are:
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Home Treatments
This includes applying an ice pack or heat bag to the jaw area. Gradually start practicing jaw exercises and avoid chewing hard food that can cause additional strain on your jaw. Stress management techniques like yoga and meditation can also reduce the surrounding muscle tension that arises because of TMJ.
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Medications
Once you have consulted your orthodontist regarding the TMJ disorder, they will prescribe you over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen that can ease the pain and inflammation. For severe cases specific pain medications will be recommended.
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Therapies
Various therapies can be effective in treating TMJ disorders. Physical therapy focuses on exercises to strengthen jaw muscles and improve range of motion. Oral splints or mouthguards can help reduce teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be beneficial for managing the stress and anxiety that often accompany chronic TMJ disorders.
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Surgeries or Other Procedures
In cases where all treatments fail, surgical options may be considered. Surgeries like arthroscopy or open-joint surgery might be required to repair or replace damaged joint components.
Final Thoughts
It’s absolutely normal to feel your jaw clenched once in a while or experience soreness in the head, neck and shoulder. However, when the pain continues to subside for a longer time, it’s time to check in with a reliable team of dental specialists. We believe in diagnosing the root problem and working from there on to heal TMJ pain. Every person’s struggle is different and that’s why we craft a unique treatment plan for your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How TMJ Is Diagnosed?
Connecting with a reputed dentist is the first step in diagnosing TMJ. They will check your jaw and feel your jaw as you open and close it. This is how they will determine and suggest the next steps.
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How Long Does TMJ Dizziness Last?
The dizziness caused by TMJ can vary. It largely depends upon the underlying issue. Sometimes, the dizziness will be temporary and improve over time with the proper treatment. While it stays little until the underlying address of TMJ is understood.
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What Will Happen If TMJ Disorder Is Not Treated?
If TMJ disorder is not treated, then the discomfort and pain continue to elevate around your jaw. It could get inflamed and then cause damage to your teeth.
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Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches and Dizziness?
There are some cases where wisdom teeth can cause headaches and dizziness. The pain can radiate in the neck, shoulders and head.
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Can TMJ Cause Vertigo?
The poor position of one of the joints can trigger vertigo, earache and tinnitus.
Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD, runs a successful dental practice in Salem, MA. Dr. Isaac strives for quality on a daily basis and this commitment to quality is reflected in her constant pursuit of advanced training. Her firm belief that even experts need to stay updated about what’s new in the dental field, enables her to provide every patient with optimal oral care. As the founder of Coral Dental Care, she is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles for her patients and also to educating dental and non-dental community with her engaging articles on all things related to oral health, recent dental innovations, and latest treatment modalities.