Feeling dizzy lately? Vertigo can be notoriously disorienting. Sometimes we chase it at amusement parks but outside of intentionally trying to recreate the feeling can leave people ready to tap out. That off-balance feeling is typically a result of an inner ear problem. But the inner ear isn’t alone. If a person’s temporomandibular joint is dysfunctional, it can lead to problems with the inner ear and negatively affect balance.
How Are the TMJ and Inner Ear Connected?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the inner ear are very close in proximity. For example, if you plug your ear and open and close your mouth, you should be able to feel your jaw joint.
Being so close physically also connects them and because the inner ear is made up of tiny, delicate structures, even small disturbances can lead to decreased functionality.
TMJ and Balance
When a temporomandibular joint isn’t functioning properly, it’s typically followed by inflammation. This inflammation can affect the inner ear and impair it’s ability to manage balance perception by interferring in the movement of endolymph.
A dysfunctional TMJ can also affect balance through the TMJ’s relation to the cervical spine. When the jaw joint has degenerated, it can cause the first vertebra to fall out of alignment. Once the cervical vertebra are out of alignment they can cause a forward head posture which shifts the resting head position. This cascading sequence of events can send conflicting signals between the eyes and ears.
Side Effects of Poor Balance
Contradicting signals between the inner ear, muscles, eyes, and joints can cause:
- Difficulty standing up
- Trouble concentrating
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of hearing
- Fever
Contact Evolution Dental Today
If you live in Calgary, Northwest Calgary, Cochrane or other nearby areas of Alberta and would like to learn more about your sleep apnea treatment options, you can call Evolution Dental today at 403-768-2433 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kendra Schick.
*all procedures performed at our practice by a general dentist
