Audiological findings in patients with subjective tinnitus associated with TMD

Abstract

Introduction: Otologic symptoms are frequent in patients with temporomandibular dysfunction, among these symptoms the prevalence of tinnitus is outstanding. In the literature we highlight several studies that prove this association, although the audiological and otorhinolaryngological evaluation are within the norms of normality. Despite many studies involving multiprofessional teams, it was not possible to clarify the association of auditory symptoms and TMD. Objective: To investigate hearing health in patients with tinnitus associated with TMD in the dental pre-treatment stage. Methodology: Fifty-three patients from the Orthodontics and Audiology clinics of Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru, Universidade de São Paulo were evaluated. To investigate auditory health, the participants performed a specific interview, conventional and high frequency tonal audiometry, logoaudiometry, immitanciometry and otoacoustic emissions. Results: Unilateral tinnitus was reported by most individuals, with atrial fullness and no otalgia. The majority of the subjects presented normal hearing bilaterally, followed by moderate loss. Conclusion: The results evidenced that the occurrence of auditory alterations in patients with TMD is significant, and audiological follow-up should be indicated in patients with TMD.