6. Ringing in the ears
TMJ disorder doesn’t only affect the jaw; it can also affect the ears. Since the temporamandibular joint and the ears are so close to each other, it stands to reason that problems with the joint would lead to ear issues – namely, ringing in the ears (tinnitus). In fact, scientific studies have found that people who suffer from TMJ are more prone to tinnitus.
There are a few reasons why TMJ can cause ringing in the ears: The muscles that operate the TMJ joint are situated near muscles that connect to the middle ear; ligaments that connect the jaw are connected to bones in the middle ear, and the nerves that are associated with the temporomandibular joint are connected to a part of the brain that controls hearing. If you are experiencing ringing in your ears, there’s a chance that TMJ disorder could be to blame.