Your temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your skull and is primarily responsible for your ability to open and close your mouth. Unfortunately, however, the jaw can sometimes become misaligned with the temporomandibular joint, causing pain like headaches, shoulder pain, and even back pain, as well as difficulties chewing and speaking. This is known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). Worse yet, some patients with TMD even report other side effects such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and vertigo. Here’s why if you have TMD, you may also have vertigo.
What is Vertigo?
Vertigo or dizziness can develop because of the proximity of the temporomandibular joint to the vestibular system, which is located within your inner ear and nervous system. Its function in your body is to help control balance and eye movement. It does this via a series of sensors that monitor your physical position as well as the body’s response to gravity. They work by transmitting signals to your brain’s vestibular nuclei, which tells your arms, legs, and eye muscles to make adjustments that allow you to remain upright and in proper balance.
When these signals get confused or blocked, your body cannot adjust properly, causing you to struggle to remain balanced. Although this does not occur within the temporomandibular joint, scientists believe that because of its proximity to the vestibular system, inflammation caused by TMD could interfere with signals, causing dizziness and a loss of balance.
Symptoms of Vertigo
In addition to dizziness, there are many warning signs of vertigo that are important to be aware of. These include:
- Confusion
- Nausea and vomiting during intense situations
- The sensation that your surroundings are moving
- Mental disorientation
- Feeling like you’re falling
- Feeling lightheaded
- Vomiting in intense situations
- Problems balancing
If you are experiencing any of these in conjunction with jaw pain and stiffness, tinnitus, frequent neck, back, or shoulder pain, migraine headaches, or if you have been formally diagnosed with TMD, please speak to your dentist about TMD treatment.
How Can I Treat TMD?
Because TMD’s are as different as each individual patient, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ treatment for this disorder. If you are experiencing any negative and painful side-effects of the condition, your dentist can help formulate a plan that will help address each of your symptoms harmoniously. This may include any combination of jaw exercises, occlusal adjustment, and wearing an oral appliance during sleep. Your exact treatment will depend on your symptoms as well as your individual oral and overall health.
Remember, if you are suffering from dizziness or vertigo from your temporomandibular joint disorder, there is help. Speak to your dentist today about diagnosis, or to create a treatment plan that will address each of your symptoms so you can get the relief you need from all of your symptoms.
About Dr. Shkurti
Dr. Eduart Shkurti earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Albania (Branch of Dentistry) and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Southern California (USC-School of Dental medicine). He first graduated from dental school at the University of Tirana in Albania before moving to the United States. He is an active member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the New York Dental Society and the Astoria County Dental Society. To schedule an appointment with ED Family Dental for TMD treatment, please visit our website or call us today at 718-806-1662.