TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of The Gorge

Tinnitus

Tinnitus, or persistent ringing in the ears, can be linked to TMJ dysfunction and muscle tension in the jaw. Our team offers targeted therapies to reduce symptoms and improve ear-related discomfort.

Tinnitus Specialist in Hood River

    How TMJ Disorders Can Contribute to Tinnitus

    Tinnitus — a persistent ringing, buzzing, or whooshing in the ears — can be both frustrating and disruptive to daily life. While it’s often associated with hearing loss, many people are surprised to learn that tinnitus can also be linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The muscles and nerves connected to the jaw are closely related to the ear, and when the jaw is misaligned or under strain from clenching or grinding, it can affect the auditory system. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Gorge, we specialize in identifying these connections and offering targeted, non-invasive relief.

    Our expert team evaluates jaw function, bite alignment, and muscle tension that may be contributing to your ear-related symptoms. Using advanced diagnostics and personalized therapy plans — including oral appliances, laser therapy, and muscle rehabilitation — we help reduce the strain on the TMJ and alleviate tinnitus symptoms. If you’ve been struggling with ringing in the ears and haven’t found answers, our TMJ-focused approach could be the key to your relief. Contact us today at (541) 386-2999 to schedule an appointment.

    Tinnitus Expert in Hood River, OR

    Common Tinnitus Symptoms Related to TMJ Dysfunction

    TMJ disorders can create pressure and tension around the jaw and ear, leading to a variety of tinnitus-related symptoms. When the jaw is misaligned or the surrounding muscles are inflamed, it can affect the nerves and structures connected to the auditory system. Understanding these symptoms can help determine whether TMJ is contributing to your tinnitus.

    • Ringing or buzzing in one or both ears – A persistent high-pitched sound not caused by external noise.
    • Ear fullness or pressure – A sensation of clogged or stuffed ears, even when there’s no blockage.
    • Popping or clicking sounds – Audible noises in the ear or jaw during chewing or speaking.
    • Worsening of ear sounds with jaw movement – Tinnitus that intensifies when opening the mouth or shifting the jaw.
    • Ear pain without infection – Aching or discomfort near the ear, often confused with an ear infection.
    • Sound sensitivity (hyperacusis) – Increased sensitivity to everyday sounds, sometimes due to muscle tension near the ear.
    Tinnitus Symptoms in Hood River, OR

    Benefits of Tinnitus Treatment Through TMJ Therapy

    When tinnitus is linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, addressing the jaw-related issues can significantly reduce or even eliminate ear-related symptoms. By focusing on the underlying causes, TMJ treatment not only improves auditory comfort but also enhances overall quality of life.

    Benefits of treating tinnitus through TMJ-focused care include:

    • Reduced ear ringing or buzzing – Alleviating jaw tension and inflammation can quiet persistent noise in the ears.
    • Improved focus and concentration – Relief from constant ear sounds makes it easier to work, read, and stay mentally engaged.
    • Less stress and anxiety – As tinnitus symptoms subside, emotional distress and irritability often decrease.
    • Better sleep quality – Fewer ear disturbances at night can lead to deeper, more restorative rest.
    • Relief from jaw and facial pain – TMJ treatment often improves related discomfort around the jaw, head, and neck.
    • Greater daily comfort and confidence – With fewer interruptions from tinnitus, patients enjoy smoother communication and social interactions.
    Tinnitus Treatment in Hood River
    Doctor & Customer Approved

    Trusted By Our Many Patients

    Posted on Google Google
    Sam R. profile picture
    Sam R.
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    In my 78 years I can honestly say that I've never had a better hygienist than Jenna and Mindy. They were both very sensitive to my needs and experts with a needle. Not to mention Dr Kivel is an artist of dentistry. I thank them for their patience.
    Posted on Google Google
    linda densmore profile picture
    linda densmore
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I so appreciate the professionalism and talent of this office. I had my second crown by Curtis Haynie D.M.D. today with Alma’s wonderful reassuring assistance and I would recommend them 100%. Such a relief after having a bad experience in another state several years ago.
    Posted on Google Google
    Melody Shapiro profile picture
    Melody Shapiro
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Highly recommend! Exceptional customer care and space age technology! Dr Haynie completed my crown in one sitting. I can attest to their claim of no pain dentistry. The office staff and technicians are highly skilled and focused on your care the minute you walk in the door and eager to explain all details of the procedure and freely invite any questions you have. I have never had a more comfortable nor compassionate and pain free enjoyable dental experience.
    Posted on Google Google
    Blair Ellsworth profile picture
    Blair Ellsworth
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I was a patient at Hood River Dental for 10+ years, first at the Belmont office, then at the E Sherman office. Sasha was very attentive to my dental care, ensuring I had solid advice for ensuring I maintained my dental health. Looking back, I'm also impressed with Doctor Haynie's enthusiasm for dental and patient care. He was always excited to share his techniques, enthusiastic to explain why a particular procedure was so exciting, and generally made going to the dentist fun. Hood River Dental also offers cutting-edge dental technologies. My current dental office assumed that, being from a small town, I'd never experienced digital charting, digital x-rays, panoramic x-rays, or in-house and same-day crown modeling and creation. Hood River Dental offers all of these and more. You get all of the cutting-edge techniques that dental offices in The Big Cities offer in Hood River, with professional, caring, and enthusiastic care. If I could swing it, I'd consider the long drive to Hood River Dental for care. They're worth it!
    Posted on Google Google
    Polly Wood profile picture
    Polly Wood
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I’ve been a patient at Hood River Dental 13 years and couldn’t be happier. Along with their state of the art care, the professional and friendly staff educates and inspires me to practice thorough dental hygiene between visits. Thank you Dr. Haynie, Sasha and all the great people at Hood River Dental!
    Posted on Google Google
    Raven Rutherford profile picture
    Raven Rutherford
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I don't normally seek out Dentists, (which of course is why I found myself in Dr. Paynes chair)I had a nightmarish dental experience as a young teen which left a pronounced scar on my face. Dr Payne and his AMAZING dental assistant "Rico" performed dental magic on me which left me in complete awe of Hood River Dental. If you don't go to Hood River Dental for each and every one of yours and your family's dental needs you will get inferior treatment and quality. Ok that was obviously mean to the other HR Dentists, but you will definately not get the dynamic duo of Rico and Dr. Payne they are professionals in every sense of the word. Please go and see my new lifetime Dentist, Dr. Payne and experience Dental Arts at its finest.
    Posted on Google Google
    Alice Facteau profile picture
    Alice Facteau
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Who likes to go to the dentist? I really don't mind because everyone there is very friendly and caring and still very professional.
    Who We Are

    Our Experts

    CURTIS HAYNIE

    DMD

    Dr Haynie is grateful for the opportunity to practice in his hometown and loves accessing all the activities it provides. His goal is to always live the moment in the Gorge with his family Julia, Aidan, and Ava.

    William Payne

    DMD

    Dr. Payne enjoys collaborating with the skilled doctors and team at Hood River Dental and is proud to bring his many years of experience in quality, comfortable dental care to the Hood River community.

    We Look Forward
    To Meeting You

    Start your journey to better sleep and lasting relief. At The TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of The Gorge, we help you live pain-free and wake up refreshed. Reach out today to begin your transformation.

    Contact Us Today!