Couple in North Tampa smiling with their dental implants

Tinnitus: Common Causes and Why Dental Implants Aren’t One of Them

July 30, 2024
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Female in North Tampa experiencing tinnitus

Updated: May 19, 2026

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be very irritating and uncomfortable, and the condition can significantly impact your daily life. Patients often wonder if tooth implants could cause tinnitus; the short answer is no.

The dental implant itself does not cause tinnitus. However, the temporary stress of oral surgery, prolonged jaw opening, or underlying jaw joint issues can sometimes trigger or highlight the condition. If you are looking for a skilled dentist in Tampa, FL to discuss these procedures, our team is here to help. Here's what you should know.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a symptom—rather than a standalone disease—that occurs when a person experiences a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring sound in one or both ears. These sounds may come and go or remain constant. While acute tinnitus often resolves on its own, the condition is clinically considered chronic if it persists for six months or longer, making a professional evaluation essential.

The effects of tinnitus can range from mild annoyance to disrupting concentration, sleep, memory, and overall quality of life.

What Causes Tinnitus?

There are several different causes of tinnitus, including:

  • Ear infections or wax buildup
  • Chronic stress and anxiety
  • Ototoxic medications (certain drugs that affect the ear)
  • Head or neck trauma
  • Exposure to loud noises
  • Age-related hearing loss
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching) and TMJ disorders

Oral surgery is occasionally associated with temporary tinnitus. This is typically due to the vibrations of dental instruments, or the strain on the jaw joints (TMJ) from keeping the mouth open during the procedure. This type of tinnitus is generally transient and resolves within a few days or weeks. If you experience new or worsening tinnitus that lasts longer than two to three weeks after your procedure, be sure to contact your Tampa dentist or an ENT specialist for a follow-up evaluation.

Dental Implants at North Tampa Dentistry

Dental implants in Tampa, FL, are a highly predictable and successful solution for missing teeth, boasting a success rate of up to 95 to 98 percent. Dr. Bellegarrigue has been extensively trained in implant dentistry and has been successfully placing dental implants since 2006. His clinical expertise ensures you can feel secure and confident in your care.

Because we handle the entire process seamlessly in-house at our Tampa dental office—from the initial 3D imaging and surgical placement to the final custom restoration—our patients enjoy a streamlined experience without needing to visit multiple outside specialists.

If you have any questions about the dental implant process or want to learn how we protect your jaw comfort during treatment, please call North Tampa Dentistry at (813) 968-5368 to schedule your consultation.