If you’ve been feeling lightheaded alongside persistent jaw pain and discomfort, you might be wondering if a case of TMJ can cause dizziness. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is often linked to pain and discomfort in the jaw, but it can also lead to symptoms, including dizziness, that affect other areas of the body. Still, there may be other things at play, so it’s important to know what’s really going on with how you’re feeling.
It is important to understand how TMJ might be contributing to your vertigo-like symptoms and what you can do to manage them.
How Can TMJ Cause Dizziness?
TMJ (basically any disorder characterized by dysfunction in the joint that connects your jaw to your skull), can lead to pain, limited movement, and TMJ-related vertigo or dizziness. This can occur for several reasons, though the specific causes are still being studied.
Your Jaw and Inner Ear Connection
The temporomandibular joint is located near the ear, so issues with this joint can affect structures within the ear that control balance. This connection between the jaw and ear can lead to TMJ-related ear pain and vertigo. When the joint is misaligned, it can cause pressure in the ear, leading to feelings of dizziness or a spinning sensation.
In some cases, ear symptoms can be so severe that they resemble inner ear problems like Meniere’s disease or labyrinthitis, which can be fairly distressing.
Any Muscle Tension and Nerve Compression
TMJ disorder is often accompanied by muscle tension, especially in the neck, jaw, and face. When the muscles around the jaw and neck tighten, they can compress nerves that influence balance and spatial orientation. This compression could contribute to dizziness as the muscles and nerves struggle to function properly.
Jaw Clenching and Grinding
Many people with TMJ have a tendency to clench their jaw or grind their teeth, especially while they’re sleeping. This constant pressure on the jaw can cause muscle fatigue and tension, which can also affect the neck muscles. This tension in the neck and shoulders may contribute to dizziness or make it feel like the room is spinning.
Disruption of the Vestibular System
The vestibular system in your inner ear is responsible for helping you maintain balance. TMJ disorder may cause a disruption in this system due to the proximity of the jaw joint to the ear. When TMJ causes inflammation or misalignment in the joint, the vestibular system may not function properly, leading to dizziness or vertigo-like symptoms.
How Long Does Dizziness Last With TMJ?
The duration of dizziness caused by TMJ can vary depending on the severity of the disorder and the type of treatment being used. In many cases, the dizziness tends to improve once the jaw issues are addressed. However, it’s good to keep in mind that TMJ-related dizziness can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If left untreated, the dizziness may persist or even get worse.
The key to feeling better is catching TMJ early and getting the right treatment. If you’re dealing with persistent dizziness, it’s a smart idea to reach out to a healthcare provider who can properly diagnose your condition and help you start feeling better.
Can an Orthodontist Help With TMJ?
Yes, an orthodontist can play a big part in diagnosing and managing TMJ disorders. While they aren’t medical doctors, orthodontists specialize in issues related to the teeth and jaw, which makes them well-equipped to treat TMJ. They can look at how misalignment of your teeth and jaw might be contributing to your symptoms, including dizziness. From there, they can address TMJ in a few different ways.
Option 1: Orthodontic Treatment for Misaligned Teeth
When your teeth are misaligned or your bite is off, it can make TMJ symptoms worse. Orthodontic treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, can help realign your teeth and jaw, taking the pressure off the joint. By improving your bite, orthodontic treatment can reduce pain, minimize jaw clenching, and even help with dizziness caused by TMJ.
Option 2: Nightguards for Teeth Grinding
If you’re experiencing TMJ-related vertigo or dizziness because of teeth grinding or jaw clenching, your orthodontist may suggest a custom-made nightguard. This device helps protect your teeth while you sleep and reduces the muscle tension that could be contributing to dizziness.
Option 3: Referral to a Specialist
If dizziness is severe or doesn’t go away, your orthodontist may refer you to a TMJ specialist or physical therapist for more specific treatment. These specialists use a mix of therapy, physical manipulation, and other techniques to address the root causes of TMJ and dizziness.
If TMJ Is Causing Dizziness, You Have Solutions
Dizziness caused by TMJ can be unsettling, but the good news is that it’s treatable. If you’re experiencing dizziness alongside other TMJ symptoms like jaw pain or headaches, it’s important to consult with an orthodontist to determine the best course of action.
If you’re interested in learning more about how orthodontic care can help with TMJ, don’t hesitate to reach out to Peterson Family Orthodontics. Schedule a consultation and discover how personalized orthodontic care can help you feel your best!