Diseases of the Ear, Nose and Throat of Interest to the Dentist

Abstract

1. There is an intimate anatomic and physiologic relationship between the temporomandibular joint and the structures of the external ear, middle ear and the eustachian tube. 2. Inflammatory lesions of the temporomandibular joint as well as malocclusion and other forms of trauma frequently produce aural symptoms such as deafness, tinnitus, otalgia and vertigo. 3. A high percentage of aural symptoms secondary to an improper bite can be relieved by restoration of a balanced occlusion using the newer techniques for diagnosis and treatment. 4. Nasal obstruction is a common cause of dental abnormalities whether due to adenoids, deviated nasal septum, chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps or allergic rhinitis. 5. Maxillary sinusitis is of dental origin in approximately 10 per cent of the cases. 6. Empyema of the maxillary sinus following the extraction of a tooth should be irrigated either through the natural sinus ostium or through the inferior meatus of the nose but never through the fistula. 7. Maxillary sinusitis of dental origin should be cultured for sensitivities and treated with the appropriate antibiotic. 8. The mouth is frequently the site of early lesions of systemic diseases such as vitamin deficiencies and other nutritional disturbances, blood dyscrasias and endocrine gland abnormalities. 9. Leukoplakia in the mouth is generally regarded as a precancerous lesion and is often secondary to chronic irritation from tobacco, alcohol, broken teeth, cavities, fillings and improperly fitted dentures. Cancer can be prevented by eliminating these irritating factors. 10. Pericoronitis can spread infection to the pterygomandibular and the parapharyngeal spaces in the throat, causing serious complications. 11. Radiation therapy of tumors of the throat and neck produces early changes in the mucous membranes of the mouth such as epithelitis and late lesions in the form of radiation necrosis. Both of these reactions are a challenge to the dentist in his care of the mouth.