Vertigo is identifiable by the onset of a sudden spinning sensation. Roller coasters, amusement park rides, and merry-go-rounds all demonstrate the excitement and fun that can come from spinning. When this sensation is unprompted, it can be scary. The key difference here being intent and expectation.
A disorder of the jaw, like TMJ disorder, can seriously impact someone’s day-to-day life. “The spins” evoke feelings of not being in control or being sick, and when they strike unexpectedly, a person’s life can quickly become controlled by vertigo.
It’s All About Balance
Balance is achieved through the coordination of multiple sense organs, most notably in the inner ear. The inner ear works with the eyes, skeletal muscles, and joints to produce baseline stability.
How Does the Inner Ear Establish Balance?
The semicircular canals of the inner ear contain endolymph. This endolymph is the fluid that provides a sense of movement when a person walks, jumps, or moves. When the signals sent from the inner ear don’t align with the expectations of the other balance organs, they can result in imbalance and feeling dizzy.
Vertigo Symptoms
Vertigo can include numerous symptoms.
The sensation of moving when you are still can result in:
- Difficulty balancing
- Difficulty concentrating
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea, vomiting
- Fever
- Loss of hearing
Vertigo’s Connection to Jaw Imbalance
The temporomandibular joint is located directly beside the inner ear. To demonstrate evidence of this proximity, plug your ears and open and close your jaw. Performing this exercise allows people to feel the movement of their temporomandibular joint.
As a result of this proximity, the temporomandibular joint’s malfunctions can have tangible effects on the inner ear, sometimes resulting in vertigo. Inflammation of the TMJ can result in additional stress and resulting inflammation in the inner ear also known as labyrinthitis.
Vertigo Solutions in Burke, VA
Dr. Pamela Marzban promotes healthy, beautiful dentistry through a focus on Beauty, Balance, and Breath. With years of experience treating patients with cosmetic dental problems, TMJ disorder, and airway issues, our dedicated team of dental professionals provides patients with beautiful, balanced, and functional smiles. To learn more about TMJ disorder and how it could affect your balance, and what vertigo treatment options could work best for you, contact Dr. Pamela Marzban’s office at 703-323-8200.
