How Can TMJ Cause Dizziness?

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are relatively common and affect around 12 million people in the United States. These disorders involve the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement, which perform crucial tasks such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. While jaw pain, headaches, and difficulties in chewing or speaking are more well-recognized symptoms of TMD, other effects such as vertigo or dizziness can also manifest. While less frequently discussed, dizziness is still a significant symptom associated with TMD that is often described as a feeling of lightheadedness or losing balance rather than a sensation of fainting. Patients often report sudden feelings of dizziness and a sensation of spinning, which increases the potential of falling or slipping and injury. While this link between TMD and dizziness might seem surprising, understanding the relationship between them is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Consequently, any experience of dizziness, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms of TMD such as jaw pain or headaches, warrants timely consultation with a healthcare provider.

How TMJ Disorder is Linked to Dizziness, Lightheadedness, & Vertigo

The exact mechanisms linking TMD to vertigo or dizziness are still not completely understood and are the subject of ongoing research. One theory is that a misalignment of the jaw joint, specifically the mandibular condyle, could induce earache, tinnitus, and vertigo due to its proximity to the inner ear. The inner ear plays a vital role in body balance and spatial orientation and any issues with the TMJ like inflammation or misalignment can cause direct or indirect pressure on these structures which can result in disruption to the inner ear function.

Another potential cause is hyperactivity or sensitivity in the chewing muscles leading to contractions that cause dysfunction in the tubes linked to the ears, which can further lead to imbalance and hearing loss. Vertigo and related symptoms are linked to the vestibular system, composed of structures in the inner ear and the neurological system that regulates balance and eye movements. Therefore, inflammation or dysfunction in the TMJ, due to its proximity to the middle and inner ear, can disrupt these signals and lead to imbalance. Treatment of TMD has been found to reduce or even resolve vertigo in some patients, reinforcing the connection between these conditions.

What Does TMJ Related Dizziness Feel Like?

TMJ-related dizziness often manifests as a feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance, which can sometimes evolve into a sensation of vertigo. Vertigo is characterized by a perception of spinning or swaying when a person is stationary. These feelings can be disorienting and may even lead to nausea or vomiting in some individuals. It’s important to note that these symptoms may vary in intensity and frequency among different patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD).

How Common is TMJ Related Dizziness?

Research indicates that dizziness is a fairly common symptom among individuals with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMDs). A study conducted in 2014 found that TMDs could increase the likelihood of experiencing vertigo by 2.3 times. In concrete terms, about 60% of the study’s participants who had TMD also reported experiencing vertigo, and 65% of those with vertigo had TMD. Furthermore, half of the participants who reported experiencing facial pain, a symptom of TMD, also experienced vertigo. This evidence strongly suggests that dizziness or vertigo is a prevalent symptom in those diagnosed with TMDs.

Dangers of TMJ Related Dizziness

TMJ-related dizziness or vertigo can pose serious risks especially if these symptoms occur during activities like driving or walking where loss of balance could lead to accidents or falls. The sensation of faintness, loss of balance, or a feeling of the room spinning could indicate a vestibular problem resulting from TMD or another medical condition. It’s imperative to take these symptoms seriously and seek prompt medical attention. Although these symptoms may be associated with TMJ disorders, they could also be indicative of other health concerns such as inner ear disorders, diseases, undiagnosed head trauma, or adverse reactions to certain medications. Therefore, consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Other Signs of a TMJ Disorder

Aside from dizziness and lightheadedness, there are several other indicators that might point to a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). You might notice any of the following symptoms:

• jaw clicking and popping
• difficulty chewing
• jaw stiffness
• headaches
• soreness in the jaws and cheeks
• pain in the back, neck, and shoulder regions
• worn or sore teeth
• earache
• ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
• jaw locked in an open or closed position

TMDs can present itself in any of these varied symptoms, particularly if there are other underlying conditions or if certain bone or muscle structures exacerbate symptoms. They symptoms tend to be more common among women aged 35-44 than men or women in other age groups.

Other Potential Reasons for Dizziness

Dizziness can be triggered by various causes, not solely by temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Here are some of the other potential reasons:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This condition is more prevalent in individuals over 60 and can induce dizziness when small crystals interfere with the balance mechanisms in the inner ear. BPPV can be linked to head trauma or dehydration. The Epley maneuver, a treatment that helps reposition the crystals, is commonly used to manage BPPV.
• Anxiety: Anxiety can result in feelings of dizziness, usually accompanied by other symptoms such as feelings of dread, restlessness, and palpitations. To address dizziness related to anxiety, one must manage the underlying anxiety condition, which could involve lifestyle changes or professional assistance.
• Low Blood Pressure: Regular instances of lightheadedness upon standing may indicate low blood pressure, which could be a chronic condition or related to dehydration.
• Anemia: Anemia, characterized by the body’s inability to produce enough iron-rich red blood cells can lead to dizziness, fatigue, and pale skin. Dietary adjustments or specific treatments may be required depending on the cause of anemia.
• Ear Infection: Inflammation from ear infections can disrupt the balance-maintaining ear canals, leading to dizziness. Treating the underlying infection can help alleviate these symptoms.
• Meniere’s Disease: This disorder is caused by excessive fluid pressure in the ears and is associated with a range of symptoms such as ringing in the ears, hearing loss, sensations of ear fullness, ear pain, and dizziness. Lifestyle changes and medications are common management strategies. However, it’s crucial to note that some cases diagnosed as Meniere’s disease may actually be TMJ disorders, and the symptoms can be resolved by treating the underlying TMJ issue.

TMJ Dizziness Relief & Treatment

Alleviating dizziness related to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) can be achieved through a variety of at-home measures and professional medical interventions.

At-home measures to reduce the severity of TMD symptoms include:

• Applying heat or ice to your jaw joints for comfort
• Eating soft foods to rest your jaw
• Avoiding gum chewing and other activities that stress the jaw
• Taking over-the-counter medications for dizziness and vertigo

However, these steps only provide temporary relief and do not address the underlying cause of TMD.

Professional interventions, guided by a TMJ specialist can help address the actual problem through:

• The use of advanced diagnostic technology to understand your specific condition
• The application of an occlusal orthotic appliance to correctly position your jaw
• Non-surgical therapy to align the jaw joint for long-term relief

Additional medications and procedures to alleviate TMD symptoms include:

• Pain medications, such as NSAIDs
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Antidepressants and anti-seizure medications
• Acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Arthroscopy or surgery, in severe cases, to reposition the joint’s disk or to change facial anatomy
• Mouth guards, occlusal splints, and stabilization appliances
• Dental procedures like grinding the teeth or changing teeth positioning
• Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into the TMJ area

Remedies to address vertigo include:

• Sleeping with your head raised on multiple pillows
• Sitting on the bed before getting up
• Avoiding extending your neck or bending down
• Moving your head slowly during daily activities
• Vestibular system rehabilitation training (VRT), which is an exercise regimen designed for individuals with dizziness to aid balance
• Medications like prochlorperazine and antihistamines

When to Contact a Doctor for TMJ Related Dizziness

If you’re experiencing persistent dizziness or vertigo linked to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional. Dizziness can be symptomatic of various conditions, and it’s essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis for an effective treatment plan. Furthermore, if your jaw’s movement is significantly limited – such as being unable to fully open or close your mouth – or if you are experiencing constant pain, immediately consult with a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or TMJ specialist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide you through the appropriate treatment measures.

Contact Dr Omrani if You’re Suffering from TMJ Related Dizziness

If you’re experiencing symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness and suspect they might be related to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), it’s essential to consult with a specialist. Dr. Omrani, a seasoned practitioner in the field of orofacial pain and TMJ treatment, can help you identify the root cause of your discomfort. To schedule a consultation, reach out to his dedicated team at your earliest convenience.

TMJ Related FAQs

How do you get rid of TMJ dizziness?

To alleviate TMJ-related dizziness, one could adopt various self-care measures such as applying heat or ice to the jaw joints, eating soft foods, and taking over-the-counter medications. In many cases, a comprehensive treatment plan, including the use of an occlusal orthotic device or non-surgical therapy under the guidance of a TMJ specialist, may be necessary.

How long does TMJ vertigo last?

The duration of TMJ-associated vertigo varies greatly among individuals as it depends on the severity of the TMJ disorder and how well the body responds to treatment. It could last from a few minutes to several hours, or even longer if the underlying TMJ condition is not addressed properly.

Does TMJ disorder cause vertigo?

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause vertigo. The close anatomical relationship between the temporomandibular joint and the inner ear can result in vertigo if the TMJ is dysfunctional, leading to imbalance signals to the brain.

Can TMJ make you dizzy and cause balance issues?

Indeed, TMJ can cause dizziness and balance issues. The dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint can disturb the body's equilibrium, leading to symptoms like vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance.