Tinnitus is a spontaneous, internally generated noise which is heard in one or both ears. It is most often a subjective complaint, and the severity is dependent primarily on the patient’s description. Tinnitus may occur alone or in combination with other symptoms such as:
- Head, Neck and Back pain
- Dizziness (vertigo)
- Otalgia
- Impaired hearing
- Stuffy sensations in the ears
- Double and blurred vision
- Various Temporo-Mandibular Joint noises during chewing
- Maximum voluntary clenching
- Maximum jaw protrusion
- Mouth opening against resistance
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorder and Tinnitus
Patients with Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ or TMJ disorder) report a higher prevalence of tinnitus than do age-matched control groups. Also TMJ disorder has been implicated as a common cause of tinnitus. As many as one-third (32%) of all adults experience tinnitus at some point in their lives. It is estimated that approximately 18 million Americans seek medical attention for their tinnitus. 9 million report being seriously affected by their condition, and two million are disabled because of elusive sounds.
Age Degeneration and Tinnitus
Almost any condition that causes malfunction of the auditory end-organ might cause tinnitus, but the most common cause is age degeneration. Tinnitus is present in approximately one-third of patients who present with ear pain, fullness, hearing loss, etc. The patient may also complain of high hissing sound, not the roaring type. In older patients exhibiting a high frequency sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus could be attributed to a degenerative process in the cochlea of the ear.
Aspartame & MSG and Tinnitus
Both aspartame and monosodium glutamate (MSG) are excitatory neurotransmitters found as food additives. These excitatory neurotransmitters effect the brain neurons and increase levels of electrical activity in the brain and the auditory cortex, the area where tinnitus is perceived.
Other Causes
Other than Tinnitus & Causes, the causes are biochemical changes, e.g., from aspirin, Meniere’s disease, trauma (acoustic or chemical), and labyrinthitis.
About Dr. Agatha Bis
Oakville Dentist, Dr. Agatha Bis, DDS received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from University of Western Ontario in 1996. She has practised dentistry in Oakville for over 30 years. Dr. Bis offers a unique approach to dentistry, blending modern dental practices with the use of digital technology to optimize health outcomes. With thousands of hours in post-graduate training, her clinical focus on TMJ treatment and restorative dentistry, along with digital technology, has helped numerous patients resolve chronic and debilitating dental challenges.
– Written by Dr. Agatha Bis
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