Case Report and Literature Review on the Ear Symptom in Patient with TMD

측두하악장애 환자에게서 나타나는 귀증상에 대한 고찰과 임상증례

  • Kim, Hak-Dong (Dept. of Oral Diagnosis & Oral Medicine, College of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University) ;
  • Hong, Jung-Pyo (Dept. of Oral Diagnosis & Oral Medicine, College of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University)
  • 김학동 (경희대학교 치과대학 구강내과학 교실) ;
  • 홍정표 (경희대학교 치과대학 구강내과학 교실)
  • Published : 2000.06.30

Abstract

The relationship between TMD and otologic symptoms such as tinnitus, vertigo and dizziness has been noted for many years. The existence of otologic symptoms in patients with TMD can be explained by the anatomic proximity and embryologic origin of the structures of the ear and the temporomandibular joint, however the pathogenesis of the symptoms is poorly understood. Serveral hypotheses have been proposed. : Eustachian tube hypothesis, the tensor tympani hypothesis, the otomandibular ligament hypothesis, excessive somatic concern hypothesis. Some investigators have reported that palpation of the deep masseter muscle, sternocleidomastoid muscle or clenching can intensify a patient's tinnitus and in that case, TMD therapy would improve their otologic symptoms. Although tinnitus and vertigo are common symptoms in the general population and also increase with increasing age, those are highly significantly associated with TMD compared with control group. This case report describes the possible mechanism and management of otologic symptoms in patient with TMD who has visited our clinic complaining asymmetric tinnitus and dull pain on her left masseter muscle.

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