Question

My doctor says my ears, the right one especially, have something akin to arthritis. Can you tell me more? He advised taking Vioxx.

Answer

The mandible or jawbone hinges in a joint that sits in front of each ear. We call it the temporo-mandibular joint, or TMJ. The back wall of the joint is the front wall of the ear, so a problem in the TMJ can cause symptoms in the ear. A common collection of symptoms is called the TMJ Syndrome. It presents with pain in, and about, the ear, extending to the whole side of the head and even into the neck and shoulder. There can be a sensation of fullness or hearing loss, but with normal hearing found on a hearing test. Ringing in the ear and dizziness have also been related to this problem.

There are several causes for the TMJ Syndrome. These include malocclusion, where the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly; grinding the teeth, often at night when sleeping; and arthritis. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication like Vioxx may relieve the symptoms, but seeing a dentist with a special interest in the TMJ Syndrome can lead to long-term benefit. The dentist often adjusts the teeth so they fit together better; he/she may also offer a 'bite plate' to use when sleeping. The bite plate takes the pressure off the joints and does not allow teeth grinding. In very bad cases, surgery to the TMJ may be needed.

Links

• The TMJ Association Ltd.