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Review
. 2022 Dec 8;58(12):1806.
doi: 10.3390/medicina58121806.

Temporomandibular Joint and Otitis Media: A Narrative Review of Implications in Etiopathogenesis and Treatment

Edoardo Bernkopf  1 , Giovanni Cristalli  2 , Giovanni Carlo de Vincentiis  2 , Giulia Bernkopf  1 , Vincenzo Capriotti  3
Affiliations
Review

Temporomandibular Joint and Otitis Media: A Narrative Review of Implications in Etiopathogenesis and Treatment

Edoardo Bernkopf et al. Medicina (Kaunas). .

Abstract

Otitis media (OM) and its recurring (rAOM), effusive (OME), and chronic forms, represent a frequent clinical challenge. The middle ear, the mandible, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) share several embryological and anatomical connections. Despite that, the role of mandibular malposition and TMJ dysfunction is frequently overlooked in the management of otitis media. In this narrative review, we present current evidence supporting the etiopathogenetic role of a dysfunctional stomatognathic system in the onset of OM and the effectiveness of orthognathic treatment in preventing rAOM and OME. In particular, a focus on the influence of TMJ on Eustachian tube function is provided.

Keywords: OSAS; gnathology; malocclusion; oral appliance; otitis media; otitis media with effusion; recurrent acute otitis media; temporomandibular joint; temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Study selection.
Figure 2
Figure 2
A 4-year child affected by rAOM and severe OSAHS (Apnea-Hypopnea Index = 10.8). (a) Dental malocclusion with severe overjet. (b) Mandibular repositioning with the oral appliance: the resolution of rAOM episodes. (c) Six-month result: no AOM recurrence, Apnea-Hypopnea Index = 0.4.
Figure 3
Figure 3
A child affected by rAOM, recurrent impacted cerumen, and OSAHS. A severe retruded bite, overjet, and ogival palate are present. The oral appliance is adaptable to coexist with a maxillary expansion device.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Dental malocclusion with lateral mandibular deviation and right cross-bite. A child with rAOM and her mother with a previous history of rAOM and current periodic dizziness. The right ear was affected in both cases.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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