Assessment of otological manifestations in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders: a cross-sectional study

Background and aim People with different types of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) may experience various symptoms in their jaw joints, chewing muscles, and related structures. They may also have ear-related symptoms like Tinnitus, a feeling of fullness, ear pain, hearing problems, sensitivity to loud sounds, and dizziness. These ear symptoms can occur due to the proximity between the jaw joint, muscles supplied by the trigeminal nerve, and the ear structures. We aimed to assess the otological manifestations in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. Patients and methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Azhar University Hospital, Assiut, including 80 patients who attended the otolaryngology, rheumatology, and dental clinics with TMD causing Otological manifestations. The patients ‘data included their demographic characteristics, the presence of Otological symptoms, and their severity. Results The results showed a higher prevalence of Otological symptoms in females than males, the median age of included patients was 34 (SD, 21.1), and otalgia was the most common Otological symptom. The majority of patients had mild to moderate TMD. Conclusion Patients with TMD frequently exhibit Otological symptoms, including ear pain, ear fullness, dizziness, and vertigo, even without any apparent ear problems. These symptoms are more common in females. The findings indicate a strong link between TMD and these reported Otological symptoms, which are generally not severe.