If you have ever felt like the room was spinning despite not moving yourself, then you likely had vertigo. It’s a sensation that many adults have experienced because there is a wide range of conditions that can cause it. One of them is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, or TMD. This connection may seem odd, but keep reading to learn what you should know and how your dentist can help.
What is Vertigo?
Vertigo isn’t necessarily a disease, but rather a symptom of something else that’s going on in your body. It can make you feel dizzy, nauseous, or give you a headache. Many people notice it when they turn their head, change positions, or even when they are standing still. It often happens when the signals that keep your balance are disturbed or damaged.
Your inner ear has sensory organs that are responsible for this. They are important in telling your brain about your body’s position, but they can become damaged or get inflamed. Instead, a wrong signal might be sent, making you feel like you’re spinning or tilting even though you aren’t.
What’s the Link Between TMD and Vertigo?
With that being said, you might be confused about how vertigo relates to TMD. Well, it’s because of your jaw joints! These are very close to the structures in your inner ear. Your TMJs may become inflamed, and the swelling may put pressure and tension on the nerves nearby. This will disrupt the balancing signals and make you feel like the room is spinning or you are dizzy. Not only that, but if it’s TMD-related, many people also experience nausea, ear fullness, and ringing.
How Can My Dentist Treat TMD?
The good news is that your dentist is here to help you treat your TMD through a treatment that’s right for you. By helping you get a diagnosis, they can help take a look at your jaw joints, bite, and surrounding muscles to see what is causing the problem.
They will then offer a solution that’s right for you. One option is occlusal adjustments, which is when your dentist will help your teeth fit together a bit more easily. This can take pressure off your jaw and let you have a more comfortable bite.
Patients also find success with occlusal splints. They are an oral appliance that helps your jaw muscles and joints relax when you sleep. Over time, your mouth will become accustomed to them, helping you find relief. While your vertigo might be TMD-related, talking to your dentist can help you get a diagnosis and a solution to it that works for you.
About the Author
Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz has been helping the Burbank community get the confident smiles they love for over 20 years. He and his team of dentists are here to help you find relief from your TMD through a reliable treatment, such as an occlusal adjustment or splint. Dr. Ruiz is here to stick with you to get you the relief you deserve. If you think your vertigo is TMD-related, schedule an appointment or call his office at (818) 558-4332.
