Tinnitus

Tinnitus, characterized by ringing, buzzing, or a sensation of pressure in the ear, frequently results from jaw misalignment. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City, we address TMJ issues to alleviate these disturbances.

Tinnitus treatment at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans
TMJ International
Over 70 Centres Located in 7 Countries

Over 70 Centres

LOCATED IN 7 COUNTRIES
Decades of Combined Experience

Decades

OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE
Tens of Thousands of Patients Treated

Tens of Thousands

OF PATIENTS TREATED
Non-invasive Solutions

The Impact of TMJ Dysfunction on Tinnitus

Tinnitus refers to hearing sounds that are not the result of external stimuli. While it is often linked to issues within the inner ear, the jaw joint and muscles used for chewing can also play a role. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) shares neural pathways and muscle connections with the ears. When the bite is not properly aligned or the muscles are overly tense, jaw movements can influence auditory perception, resulting in sensations such as ringing or fullness in the ears.

“A significant association between TMD and tinnitus was found.”
MDPI, 2024 systematic review.

“Tinnitus patients with TMJ complaints could constitute a subtype… responsive to specific treatments.”
Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2019.

At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City, we assess the complete system: including jaw alignment, muscle tension, bite dynamics, neck posture, and ear health. If your tinnitus varies with jaw movements, clenching, or changes in neck position, a treatment plan focused on TMJ may alleviate symptoms without the need for surgery.

Why This Matters

Tinnitus significantly impacts both quality of life and sleep. Worldwide estimates indicate that around 14% of adults experience tinnitus, with 2% suffering from debilitating forms. JAMA Neurology review. Care guided by established guidelines begins with a thorough history and examination, followed by targeted therapies instead of standard imaging or unproven medications. AAO-HNS Tinnitus Guideline.

Tinnitus treatment at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans

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TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City

When To Seek Treatment

These indicators may suggest that your tinnitus is linked to the jaw and muscular systems:

Ringing Changes With Jaw Movement

The sound fluctuates in volume when you clench, open your mouth widely, or shift your jaw side to side, indicating a sensory connection.

Ear Fullness With Jaw Tension

You may feel pressure or fullness during clenching, experience fatigue while chewing, or have tightness upon waking from nocturnal grinding.

Clicking Jaw or Limited Opening

Sounds from the joint or a reduced range of motion may indicate mechanical stress in areas closely associated with the ear.

Neck or Headache Triggers

Exacerbations related to posture, neck strain, or jaw activity highlight muscle-driven factors that could influence your tinnitus experience.

Our Commitment

Relief begins with the right diagnosis

If your tinnitus fluctuates during clenching, chewing, or with changes in neck position, your jaw could be a contributing factor. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City, we provide targeted, non-invasive TMJ treatments to alleviate discomfort and soothe symptoms.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Tinnitus

Tinnitus may arise from various factors. When issues with the jaw and neck are involved, improving the mechanics and reducing muscle tension can often lessen symptom severity. This information clarifies the TMJ connection and outlines care expectations.

The TMJ and the middle ear are linked through shared nerves and muscles. Overactive muscles in the jaw or neck can alter signals that the brain perceives as sound. Therefore, achieving bite alignment and relieving muscle tension may alleviate symptoms for some individuals.

Not necessarily. Tinnitus arises from multiple causes. However, studies indicate a significant correlation between TMJ disorders and tinnitus, and many patients experience relief from jaw-related symptoms when TMJ and muscle issues are treated. We aim to set practical expectations and monitor progress.

If the sounds vary with jaw movements, clenching, neck alignment, or applying light pressure on specific muscles, it suggests a possible somatosensory link. We incorporate a comprehensive history, TMJ examination, bite assessment, and if necessary, a referral for audiological evaluation.

Our approach is non-invasive and personalized. Treatment options include custom orthotics to improve jaw alignment, myofascial therapy, at-home exercises, laser therapy to reduce inflammation, and coaching on habits to minimize clenching. We also collaborate with audiology professionals in line with evidence-based care.

Yes, they do. Tinnitus management guidelines stress the importance of thorough evaluation, counseling, and targeted therapeutic methods instead of routine imaging or unverified medications. Our strategies align with these recommendations while incorporating TMJ-specific care when appropriate.
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TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre

INTERNATIONAL

Global Expertise
Local Care

As proud members of TMJ International, we are part of a global team dedicated to advancing collaborative care in TMJ disorders and sleep therapy. Together, we bring innovation, expertise, and compassionate treatment to help patients find lasting relief and a healthier quality of life.

TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City

If you’re struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or sleep issues, the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City is here to help. Our team specializes in non-surgical TMJ and sleep therapy solutions designed to restore comfort and improve your quality of life.

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    TMJ International
    Over 70 Centres Located in 7 Countries

    Over 70 Centres

    LOCATED IN 7 COUNTRIES
    Decades of Combined Experience

    Decades

    OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE
    Tens of Thousands of Patients Treated

    Tens of Thousands

    OF PATIENTS TREATED