In a study written by Kent W. Cox, MD, PhD, “Temporomandibular Disorder and New Aural Symptoms”, Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2008:134 (4): 389-393, it was found that 10% of all new otolaryngology (ENT) clinic patients were diagnosed as having Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). Of the studied patients with TMD, 35% listed the ear as one of their sites of pain.
The prevelance of each of the 8 aural symptoms assessed was significantly higher in TMD patients compared with controls (P<.001). A warm and/or fluid sensation in the ear and a stuffed cotton sensation in the ear were the most indicative symptoms of TMD because they had the highest relative risk ratios in TMD patients. Aural symptoms of loud noise sensitivity and cold air/wind sensitivity are also relevant and were approximately 5 times more frequent in TMD subjects than in controls. (Cox, “Temporomandibular,” p. 389-393.)
In conclusion,
Patients with TMD are a significant component to an otolaryngology practice. There are previously uninvestigated aural symptoms that occur much more frequently in TMD patients than in patients without TMD. (Cox, “Temporomandibular,” p. 389-393.)
This study is consistent with the findings of Dr. Stan Farrell, in that, 90% of the patients treated in our practice (AZ TMJ) who express some sort of ear pain and dizziness have significant relief of these symptoms after their TMD issues have been treated. Additionally, over 50% of patients who express that they have ringing in the ear have significant relief of these symptoms after their TMD issues have been treated. http://www.aztmj.com/.
