Why does jaw pain often occur near the ear. What are the common causes of jaw discomfort in this area. How can temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders lead to pain near the ear. What treatments are available for jaw pain and TMJ issues.

Understanding Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and Its Connection to Jaw Pain

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a crucial role in various facial movements and functions. Located just in front of the ear, this joint connects the jawbone to the skull, enabling actions like chewing, talking, and yawning. Due to its proximity to the ear, pain in this area can often be confusing, leading many to wonder whether the discomfort originates from the jaw or the ear itself.

TMJ disorders are a common source of jaw pain near the ear. These conditions affect the joint and surrounding muscles, causing discomfort that can radiate to nearby areas. Understanding the anatomy of the TMJ and its relationship to surrounding structures is essential for identifying the root cause of jaw pain near the ear.

Key Functions of the Temporomandibular Joint

• Facilitates opening and closing of the mouth
• Enables side-to-side and forward-backward jaw movements
• Supports proper alignment of upper and lower teeth
• Assists in speech production
• Contributes to facial expressions

Common Causes of Jaw Pain Near the Ear

Jaw pain near the ear can stem from various conditions, ranging from temporary discomfort to chronic disorders. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some common reasons why you might experience jaw pain in this area:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis affecting the TMJ. This degenerative condition results from the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage surrounding the joint. As the cartilage breaks down, it leads to increased friction and inflammation, causing stiffness and pain in the jaw area, often radiating towards the ear.

Can osteoarthritis in the TMJ worsen over time? Yes, without proper management, osteoarthritis in the TMJ can progressively deteriorate, leading to increased pain and reduced jaw mobility. Early intervention and lifestyle modifications can help slow its progression and alleviate symptoms.

Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis

Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis can also affect the TMJ, causing pain and inflammation. These systemic diseases target healthy joints throughout the body, including the jaw joint. The resulting discomfort can manifest as pain near the ear, often accompanied by other symptoms such as joint stiffness and swelling.

TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the joint and surrounding muscles. These disorders can cause pain, inflammation, and limited jaw movement. When symptoms persist for more than three months without an apparent cause, it may indicate chronic TMJ disorder or related conditions such as fibromyalgia, sleep apnea, anxiety, or depression.

How can you distinguish between acute and chronic TMJ disorders? Acute TMJ disorders typically resolve within a few weeks to months with appropriate care, while chronic TMJ disorders persist for over three months and may require more intensive treatment approaches.

Ear Infections

Ear infections, whether viral or bacterial, can cause pain that may be mistaken for jaw discomfort. The close proximity of the ear to the TMJ can make it challenging to differentiate between the two. In some cases, fluid buildup in the ear can lead to pain that radiates to the jaw area, particularly behind the jaw bone and under the ear.

Mastoiditis, a serious complication of untreated ear infections, can cause severe swelling and pain near the ear and jaw on one side. This condition requires immediate medical attention as it can potentially become life-threatening if left unchecked.

Sinusitis

Sinus infections, particularly those associated with existing cold or allergy conditions, can sometimes cause pain that extends to the jaw area near the ear. The inflammation of the nasal passages can create pressure and discomfort that radiates to surrounding regions, including the jaw and ear.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can lead to significant jaw pain and discomfort. This habit, often occurring during sleep, places excessive stress on the jaw muscles and TMJ. Over time, it can cause wear on the teeth, strain in the gums and muscles, and pain that radiates to the neck, face, and ears.

How does teeth grinding impact dental health beyond jaw pain? Persistent bruxism can lead to tooth enamel erosion, increased tooth sensitivity, and even tooth fractures or loss if left untreated. It’s essential to address this habit to prevent long-term dental damage.

Diagnosing Jaw Pain Near the Ear

Accurate diagnosis of jaw pain near the ear is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach. Healthcare professionals employ various methods to identify the underlying cause of the discomfort:

1. Medical history review: Discussing symptoms, duration, and potential triggers
2. Physical examination: Assessing jaw movement, muscle tenderness, and joint sounds
3. Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to visualize joint structures and detect abnormalities
4. Dental evaluation: Checking for signs of teeth grinding or misalignment
5. Blood tests: To rule out systemic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis

Why is a comprehensive diagnostic approach important for jaw pain near the ear? The complex anatomy of the jaw and ear region means that pain can have multiple potential sources. A thorough evaluation helps ensure accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment, reducing the risk of mismanagement or overlooked underlying conditions.

Treatment Options for TMJ-Related Jaw Pain

Treatment for jaw pain near the ear often focuses on addressing TMJ disorders, as they are a common underlying cause. The approach typically starts with conservative, non-invasive methods before progressing to more intensive interventions if necessary.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

Initial treatment often involves self-care strategies that can be implemented at home:

• Eating soft foods to reduce stress on the jaw
• Applying alternating heat and cold therapy to the affected area
• Practicing gentle jaw stretches and exercises
• Avoiding extreme jaw movements, such as wide yawning or gum chewing
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques

Medications

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can help manage pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorders:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen for pain relief
• Muscle relaxants for severe muscle spasms
• Tricyclic antidepressants for chronic pain management

How do NSAIDs help in managing TMJ-related jaw pain? NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation in the affected joint and surrounding tissues, which in turn helps alleviate pain and improve jaw mobility. They can be particularly effective for acute flare-ups of TMJ symptoms.

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing TMJ disorders and associated jaw pain. A physical therapist can guide patients through exercises designed to:

• Improve jaw flexibility and range of motion
• Strengthen jaw muscles
• Correct posture and alignment issues
• Reduce muscle tension and pain

Dental Interventions

Dental treatments can address TMJ issues related to teeth alignment or grinding:

• Custom-fitted night guards or splints to prevent teeth grinding
• Orthodontic treatments to correct bite misalignment
• Dental restorations to improve bite balance

Advanced Treatment Options

For persistent or severe cases, more intensive treatments may be considered:

• Botox injections to relax overactive jaw muscles
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce joint inflammation
• Arthrocentesis, a minimally invasive procedure to flush out the joint
• TMJ arthroscopy for joint repair or tissue removal
• Open joint surgery in rare, severe cases

When should advanced treatments be considered for TMJ-related jaw pain? Advanced treatments are typically reserved for cases where conservative approaches have failed to provide relief after several months of consistent application. The decision to pursue these options should be made in consultation with a specialist, considering the potential benefits and risks.

Preventing Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders

While not all causes of jaw pain near the ear are preventable, certain measures can help reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorders and associated discomfort:

• Practice good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
• Avoid excessive gum chewing or biting on hard objects
• Use proper form when lifting heavy objects to prevent clenching
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and exercise
• Maintain good dental hygiene and regular dental check-ups
• Seek early treatment for teeth grinding or bite issues

How does stress management contribute to TMJ disorder prevention? Stress often leads to increased muscle tension, including in the jaw area. By managing stress effectively, individuals can reduce the likelihood of developing habits like teeth clenching or grinding that contribute to TMJ disorders.

When to Seek Professional Help for Jaw Pain Near the Ear

While mild, temporary jaw discomfort may resolve on its own, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical attention:

• Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
• Swelling or visible deformity in the jaw area
• Pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• Accompanying symptoms like fever, earache, or hearing changes

Why is early intervention important for jaw pain near the ear? Seeking timely professional help can prevent the progression of underlying conditions, reduce the risk of chronic pain development, and improve treatment outcomes. Early diagnosis and management can also help avoid more invasive interventions in the future.

Complementary and Alternative Approaches to Managing Jaw Pain

In addition to conventional treatments, some individuals find relief from jaw pain near the ear through complementary and alternative therapies. While scientific evidence for these approaches varies, they may offer additional support for managing symptoms:

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help reduce pain and improve function in individuals with TMJ disorders.

Massage Therapy

Targeted massage of the jaw, neck, and shoulder muscles can help relieve tension and reduce pain associated with TMJ disorders. Techniques such as myofascial release may be particularly beneficial.

Biofeedback

This mind-body technique helps individuals become more aware of their physiological processes, including muscle tension. By learning to control these processes, patients may be able to reduce jaw clenching and associated pain.

Herbal Remedies and Supplements

Some natural products, such as turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties or magnesium for muscle relaxation, are sometimes used to support TMJ pain management. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

How does biofeedback work in managing TMJ-related jaw pain? Biofeedback uses sensors to monitor muscle activity and tension in the jaw area. By providing real-time feedback, it helps individuals learn to consciously relax these muscles, potentially reducing pain and improving jaw function over time.

Living with Chronic Jaw Pain: Coping Strategies and Support

For some individuals, jaw pain near the ear may become a chronic condition. Developing effective coping strategies and seeking support can significantly improve quality of life:

Pain Management Techniques

• Mindfulness meditation to reduce pain perception
• Guided imagery for relaxation and pain relief
• Progressive muscle relaxation to reduce overall tension

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Adapting eating habits to accommodate jaw discomfort
• Modifying work environments to support proper posture
• Incorporating regular gentle exercise to improve overall well-being

Emotional Support

• Joining support groups for individuals with TMJ disorders
• Seeking counseling to address the emotional impact of chronic pain
• Educating family and friends about the condition to foster understanding

Why is a multidisciplinary approach important in managing chronic jaw pain? Chronic jaw pain often impacts various aspects of an individual’s life, including physical, emotional, and social well-being. A comprehensive approach that addresses all these facets can lead to more effective management and improved overall quality of life.

Understanding the complexities of jaw pain near the ear, including its various causes and treatment options, is crucial for effective management. Whether stemming from TMJ disorders, arthritis, or other conditions, this type of pain can significantly impact daily life. By recognizing symptoms early, seeking appropriate medical care, and implementing a combination of professional treatments and self-care strategies, individuals can find relief and improve their overall jaw health. Remember, each case is unique, and working closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan is key to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Why Does My Jaw Hurt by My Ear? | TMJ

Are you experiencing simultaneous pain in your jaw and ear, on one side or both sides? There could be a multitude of reasons behind the pain. The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is usually the source of pain when it comes to the jaw and ear. That said, it’s important to remember that the jaw and ear are in extremely close proximity which may be why pain in the ear may be confused with pain in the jaw and vice versa. Specifically pain under the ear, behind the jaw bone can be said to be radiating from the temporomandibular joint.

If you are wondering “Why does my jaw hurt by my ear?” you are definitely on the right page. In this article, we will unearth some of the most common causes behind jaw and ear pain including the pain under the ear, behind the jaw bone, and how to remedy them.

Possible Reasons Why Your Jaw Hurts by Your Ear

Osteoarthritis

The most common kind of arthritis in the TMJ is osteoarthritis. Although common, it should still be taken seriously. Osteoarthritis is the result of constant wear and tear of the cartilage enveloping the joint. This triggers stiffness in the joint, eventually resulting in critical pain behind the ear and jaw. So, if you’re thinking “I have an earache and my jaw hurts” then osteoarthritis may be the probable cause.

Rheumatoid or Psoriatic Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that affects healthy joints. It may lead to joint pain at times that may radiate throughout the rest of the body. Some triggers especially cause rheumatoid arthritis pain. Pain in the jaw, under the ear and in the ear could also be a sign of either rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, another autoimmune condition.

TMJ Disorder

Another leading cause of pain under the ear, behind the jaw bone can be a disorder related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The TMJ is indirectly responsible for many functions such as chewing ad talking as it facilitates movement in the jaw. As such, it includes the jaw joint as well as the nearby muscles that aid in the movement. In cases where patients suffer from symptoms such as, inflammation, discomfort, or pain in the TMJ – that cannot be attributed to any other obvious cause – for more than three months it may be chronic TMJ or other medical conditions like fibromyalgia, sleep apnea, anxiety, or depression. TMJ could be due to wear and tear or another reason.

Ear Infections

Often, ear infections are caused by viruses or bacteria. They can also be caused when water or other fluids build up in and around your ear, leaving you susceptible to earache or jaw, specifically pain under the ear, behind the jaw bone. Also, if you experience a mild to high fever coupled with reduced stamina, that’s a red flag.

In a condition called mastoiditis, undiagnosed ear infections may spread to other parts of the body as well. As the infection spreads, the person might encounter massive swelling and pain near the ear and jaw on one side.

In fact, severe cases of this condition can demand immediate diagnosis as they could be life-threatening.

Sinusitis

Pain under the ear or behind the jaw bone could be the result of sinusitis. But this only happens when you have a precondition of cold allergies. Since it is a virus borne infection, your nasal passage becomes irritated. This could also be accompanied by a runny nose.

Teeth Grinding

How do you know if your teeth are actually grinding? What are the symptoms? If you are experiencing erosion in your teeth or severe strain in your gums or muscles, this could be it.

The tension caused can create pain in the neck, on the front and sides of the face, or in the ears. In some cases, it can cause massive damage to the teeth, ultimately breaking them.

How to Treat Jaw Pain Caused by TMJ

You can try to nurse it from home, which is the least invasive way. Eat soft foods, stretch and massage your jaw, and apply heat and cold alternately to it.

If your symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend any of the following treatments.

Medicines

Some over-the-counter medicines (pain relievers and anti-inflammatories) commonly prescribed for TMJ are Tylenol and ibuprofen.

Therapies

Therapies can include mouthguards to wear while sleeping, as well as physical therapy to get the jaw muscles strong and flexible.

Surgical procedures

Arthrocentesis, corticosteroid injections, TMJ arthroscopy and modified condylotomy are procedures only done in the rarest of cases.

Improve your Quality of Life

Don’t let these issues get in the way of your quality of life. Say Hello to Raleigh TMJ, a leading sleep therapy and TMJ center. It is best known for offering non-surgical therapies and enhancing the quality of your life, painlessly.

Request an appointment right away and bid goodbye to all your TMJ troubles. Additionally, you can check out our other services, which include a cure for headaches, facial pain, snoring, sleep apnea, and more. Why wait? Request an appointment!

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8 Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

You may experience jaw and ear pain at the same time. These 8 reasons can help you understand why the cause may be related to only your jaw or ears, but the pain spills over from the other area.

If you notice both ear and jaw pain simultaneously, it may be because of several reasons.

A medical condition in your jaw, ear, or mouth can cause the pain. Another possibility is that you’re experiencing “referred pain,” which happens when a part of your body feels pain even though the source of the pain is located somewhere else.

Below are some conditions that can cause pain in both your jaw and ears at the same time, in large part because of their close proximity.

1. TMJ disorders

One source of ear and jaw pain may be related to your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This area includes not only the jaw joint but also the muscles surrounding it.

The TMJ is adjacent to the temporal bone, which includes your inner ear. The TMJ does a lot of work, moving in many directions so you can chew and talk.

Ear and jaw pain may occur from a TMJ disorder. Around 10 to 15 percent of adults may experience a TMJ disorder. These disorders cause inflammation and pain in your TMJ. Facial pain and ear discomfort are the most common complaints of this condition. You may have a chronic TMJ disorder if you experience symptoms for longer than three months.

You may develop a TMJ disorder from wear and tear or because of another medical condition. In some cases, your doctor may suspect a TMJ disorder, but you actually have something else like:

• fibromyalgia
• sleep apnea
• anxiety
• depression

2. Osteoarthritis

Ear and jaw pain could be caused by osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis in the TMJ. This condition develops from wear and tear over time to the cartilage surrounding the joint. You may feel stiffness in the joint as well as pain.

3. Rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis

These forms of arthritis occur because your immune system attacks healthy joints. Both rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are identified as autoimmune conditions.

You may experience joint pain throughout your body at different times, including in your TMJ, and certain triggers may cause the pain to flare up.

4. Migraine

Pain felt in your jaw and ears near the TMJ area may trigger migraine. Migraine attacks are severe headaches that can re-occur. They can cause sensitivity to light, sound, and smell.

5. Swimmer’s ear

This condition occurs when bacteria forms in the outer ear from water exposure or injury. You may get this condition from swimming or if an outside object tears your ear’s lining. The symptoms will get worse if the condition is untreated and can lead to ear and jaw pain.

6. Sinusitis

You may experience ear and jaw pain from sinusitis. This condition can occur if you have a cold or allergies and your nasal passages become irritated and inflamed. The infection is generally caused by a virus, but you can also get bacterial sinusitis.

7. Dental issues

You may experience cavities, periodontal disease, and dental abscesses if bacteria builds up on your teeth and gums. These conditions can cause damage to your mouth and beyond, especially if left untreated. They can lead to jaw and ear pain.

8. Teeth grinding

If you grind your teeth, you may end up with a TMJ disorder and feel pain in your ears and jaw. This condition can:

• impact the way your teeth align
• erode your teeth
• break down your TMJ
• strain your muscles

You may grind your teeth at night and not even realize it until pain or another symptom develops.

Ear and jaw pain are not the only symptoms of these conditions. You may also experience the following:

• TMJ disorder
  • facial pain
  • pain from chewing
  • jaw clicking or locking
  • ear ringing
  • hearing loss
  • neck and shoulder pain
  • teeth shifting and misalignment
  • headaches
• Arthritis
  • swelling in the jaw
• Migraines
  • throbbing pain on one or both sides of your head
  • nausea
  • changes to your vision or other senses
• Swimmer’s ear
  • drainage
  • pain along the face and neck
  • hearing reduction
  • itching
  • fever
• Sinusitis
  • clogged nasal passages
  • green or yellow discharge
  • sensitivity of the face
  • cough
  • headache
  • restricted ability to smell and taste
• Cavities, periodontal disease, or dental abscesses
  • pain throughout the lower face and neck
  • pain that gets worse when you lie down
  • swelling in the gums and on the face
  • loose or sensitive teeth
  • sensitivity to cold and hot foods and beverages
  • fever and flu-like symptoms
• Teeth grinding
  • tooth sensitivity
  • worn teeth
  • facial and neck pain
  • headache
  • sleep disruption

Your doctor will conduct a physical exam to begin the diagnosis of your jaw and ear pain. Your doctor may also ask about your health history to find out more about your symptoms. Be sure to mention:

• recent dental surgeries
• illnesses
• injuries
• changes to your mental health like stress, anxiety, or depression

Your doctor may:

• listen to your jaw
• feel your jaw and around your face
• look in your ears
• check your vital signs
• examine your mouth

You may need an MRI, X-ray, or other imaging test to diagnose the condition.

The cause of jaw and ear pain can vary and so can treatments.

You may not seek treatment for TMJ, as 40 percent of cases resolve on their own and only 5 to 10 percent of cases require treatment. Treatments for a TMJ disorder can include:

• resting your jaw
• home remedies
• using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• wearing a brace or splint to restrict jaw movement
• flushing your joint to reduce inflammation
• surgery, in severe cases

Other causes of ear and joint pain may include similar treatments. Some conditions like arthritis, swimmer’s ear, and sinusitis may include specific medications.

Your doctor may recommend certain anti-inflammatories for arthritis, steroids for swimmer’s ear, and nasal sprays for sinusitis, among other treatment options.

Oral conditions like cavities, periodontal disease, and dental abscesses may require tooth removal, a root canal, or deep cleaning in addition to other treatment methods.

There are several methods you can try at home to help TMJ disorders:

• Change your diet to incorporate more soft foods.
• Stop chewing gum or other objects, such as the ends of pens or pencils.
• Relax and rest your jaw.
• Use a warm or cold compress to the jaw.
• Perform exercises that stretch the jaw, including slowly opening and closing your mouth several times.
• Avoid stress.

Some of these treatments may also work with other conditions causing ear and jaw pain.

Take good care of your teeth to treat and avoid conditions that affect your mouth. Make sure to brush and floss regularly, eat a healthy diet, and quit smoking to avoid the buildup of bacteria in your mouth.

You should see a doctor if your ear and jaw pain:

• is accompanied by a fever or other flu-like symptoms
• gets in the way of your everyday activities
• interferes with your sleep
• persists despite treatments
• inhibits your ability to eat and drink
• causes pain or sensitivity in your teeth or gums

There are many reasons why you may experience jaw and ear pain at the same time. Often, the condition affecting both of them is related to only your jaw or ears but you feel referred pain in the other area.

Talk to your doctor to determine the cause of the jaw and ear pain. This will help you treat the pain and avoid it from getting worse.

Jaw hurts near the ear – why does the joint hurt when chewing and opening the mouth

Does your jaw hurt when you chew, yawn, or open your mouth?
Ask yourself: “Why does my jaw hurt, what is the possible reason”? Can
there are different situations in which you experience discomfort in the jaw area.
There are a number of factors that contribute to jaw pain. It is often caused
muscle tension, spasm, or weakness. As a rule, they do not appear on their own.
themselves, but provoked and caused by some kind of trauma or systemic
diseases that affect the joints.
First of all, the doctor is interested in whether there were any injuries to the jaw and whether he is sick
a person with some systemic disease. If by this time the patient has not
the above conditions were observed, then the causes of pain in the jaw when opening the mouth
could be a huge number.

So what causes pain:
muscle stiffness, spasm or weakness of the jaw?

The jawbone joins the skull to form a hinge joint. It can be “pulled” out of position, resulting in uneven jaw opening (one side of the jaw opens further/faster than the other side). When this happens, irritation of the joint surfaces is caused, causing pain just below the inside of the ear, where the bones of the jaw join together to form the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Another case in which it is painful for a person to open his mouth, speak or chew is bad posture, such as slouching. You may be wondering how poor posture can contribute to jaw pain. Let’s explain.

So, when you sit hunched over, with your upper and lower back rounded and your shoulder blades pushed forward from each other, your head “bulges” forward. The stoop, rounded shoulders, and tilt of the head put uneven and abnormal pressure on the jaw as the muscles that attach to it work unevenly, causing irritation to the jaw joints.

In turn, this irritation causes inflammation around the jaw, which then leads to muscle spasms and cramps, and then it becomes painful for a person to open his mouth. Often headaches that are localized in the back of the head are also accompanied by pain in the jaw. It is possible that only one side of the jaw can hurt.

Why does the jaw hurt: what
do?

Your jaw should be examined by a specialist to ensure that the left and right sides open equally and that the joints function correctly. You must be instructed in proper exercises and stretches to reverse the effects of bad posture.

The doctor teaches the patient a specific set of exercises to help align the jaw to a neutral position. In the case of diagnosing malocclusion, it may be necessary to wear a mouthguard.

How about dysfunction
TMJ?

As mentioned above, the TMJ is the joint that connects the upper and lower jaws. You can feel the TMJ joint right next to your ear as you open and close your jaw. If there is pain in this joint, this would explain problems with yawning, chewing, or speaking. There are three main symptoms that indicate TMJ dysfunction: limited jaw movement, joint noise (or popping sensation), and facial pain.

The doctor can explain that chewing uses the muscles and joints between the lower jaw and the front of the base of the skull, called the temporal bone (left and right TMJ). What they may not explain is that TMJ dysfunction is not usually a serious condition. However, pain affects the quality of life. No one wants to feel uncomfortable or stressed while eating, drinking or talking.

For this reason, choose only specialists who are able not only to prescribe treatment, but also to explain the essence of the pathology.

What causes TMJ dysfunction
and jaw pain?

There are various factors that can cause left and right TMJ dysfunction, making it painful for a person to open their mouth. While certain conditions (gout, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis) may be associated with TMJ, the most common causes are less dramatic.

One of the most common causes of jaw pain is muscle tension. Overuse of the jaw (one side may be affected) while clenching or grinding the teeth (whether due to stress or during sleep) puts pressure on the joint. This leads to wear and tear on the joint, called osteoarthritis.

Many of us unintentionally grind our teeth when we are stressed. Not only can this cause osteoarthritis, but it can also lead to severe toothache when the teeth are worn away. Joint pain can also be the result of a dental infection. We all have different levels of pain threshold. So it’s better to check yourself.

The patient may have suffered a joint injury, did not recover properly from a traumatic injury to the face. In such conditions, it is also painful for a person to open his mouth. The TMJ joint may have changed after surgery, allowing for too much range of motion (hypermobility) or limiting it (hypomobility).

A person may develop a malocclusion if it was initially uneven. In this case, two joints can hurt at once. This is usually associated with a dental procedure during the installation of new fillings and dental crowns. If the patient has recently started using new dentures, this can also affect the occurrence of malocclusion. The patient’s lifestyle must be taken into account. For example, he sits at the table for a long time without a break. Is he sitting correctly at this time? If the patient slouches, he needs to pay attention to his posture so that tense muscles do not cause pain in the jaw. Physical therapy remains one of the best ways to help restore posture.

How to find out what it is
definitely TMJ dysfunction?

If you suspect a TMJ problem, see your dentist or gnathologist. They will be able to get rid of dependence on painkillers for pain that occurs when opening the mouth.

First, if you experience pain when you open your mouth wide, chew, talk or yawn, then you definitely have problems with the jaw and the muscles surrounding it. Especially if this pain is near the ear, on the face, neck, or in the ear, occurs when the jaw is opened, or there is limited movement and a feeling that your jaw is “stuck”. The patient feels that the jaw is locked to the left or right, hears unpleasant clicks, pops or grinding when chewing.

Side effects of jaw pain may include headaches, tinnitus (white noise in the ear), ear pain (on one or both sides), pain in the neck or shoulder, or a feeling of fullness in the ear. Pain in the teeth and gums is due to excessive jaw grinding, which leads to problems sleeping and maintaining weight.

It is possible to find out exactly whether a person has a TMJ pathology only after undergoing a complete diagnosis by a gnathologist. It does not take much time and does not require a lot of money. Timely detection of TMJ pathology guarantees fast and non-invasive treatment with a successful outcome.

Jaw hurts in the ear area, which doctor should I visit? / Dental center “Michurinsky”

Pain near the right/left ear canal can be constricting or throbbing, burning or aching, sudden or increasing, at rest or when pressed. Sometimes, along with pain, the temperature rises, soft tissues swell. By the nature of the pain, you can first determine its root cause. That is why doctors, only after an in-depth interview, prescribe diagnostic procedures for the patient – X-ray, MRI, complete blood count.

Problems that cause pain in the cheekbones and jaw can be treated by dentists, surgeons, otolaryngologists and other specialized doctors. We read further about the possible causes of unpleasant sensations localized anterior to the ear.

TMJ dysfunction. Failure of the temporal joint and dysfunction of the masticatory muscles is the most common cause of pain in the jaw near the ear. Pain in this case does not occur spontaneously, but with loads or pressure. Soreness is felt when chewing, yawning and talking. It is already possible to diagnose the disorder by its characteristic features – clicking and crunching in the joint when moving the jaw (in conversation or while chewing food), tinnitus, dizziness. Articular pathology is characterized by a unilateral lesion. The disease develops in the place of localization of pain. That is, if it hurts near the left ear, cheekbones and neck, this means that the destructive process is on the left.

Facial injuries (contusion, dislocation, fracture)

Acute pain attack, swelling and hematoma are the key signs of soft tissue injury even without affecting bone structures. With a sharp opening of the mouth or as a result of a blow to the face, a dislocation of the TMJ may occur, making it difficult for the simplest swallowing and chewing movements. The fracture manifests itself as unbearable pain around the injury, which spreads to the entire facial area.

Bruxism. One of the most common causes of pain in the jaw is grinding teeth at night. Usually discomfort is felt in the morning due to constant clenching of the jaws. With bruxism, the cutting surface of the teeth is abraded, pain in the jaw and ear canal is accompanied by chronic headache, discomfort in the face area, as well as anxiety, depression and insomnia.

After dental treatment. The cause of aching pain in the jaw and cheekbones are often manipulations carried out in the office of an orthopedist or orthodontist. Soreness with inflammation and swelling can occur after poor-quality removal of eights, as well as after caries treatment or dentures. Jaw pain is usually experienced for some time after braces are placed. This is considered a normal response of the jawbone to pressure from the orthodontic appliance.

Infections and inflammations

Osteomyelitis – damage to bones and adjacent tissues by an infection spreading with blood. With jaw osteomyelitis, the TMJ often suffers. Symptoms include jaw pain, swelling of the face, and fever.

Abscess – disease resulting from infection of the pulp during advanced caries. Moving along the root canal, pathogens infect adjacent soft tissues, causing inflammation and jaw pain.

SARS. Persistent ear pain may be felt as a complication of viral infections. The reason for this is inflammation of the joint sac, provoked by the influx of viruses and bacteria.

The cheekbone in the area of ​​the auricle can also hurt with inflammation of the ear canal. However, this case is characterized by intense pain in the ear with a return to the jaw. Inflammation is accompanied by fever (37.5-38C) and general malaise.

Neuralgia. Acute pain syndrome develops with inflammation of the nerves – trigeminal, glossopharyngeal, upper laryngeal. Pain occurs when coughing, hiccups, eating, yawning and pressure.

With jaw pain, they turn to the following specialists:

• in case of TMJ pathologies, – gnathologist, orthodontist;
• in case of injuries, diseases and infections of the dental system – to the dentist, maxillofacial surgeon;
• in case of soft tissue diseases – to the surgeon;
• in case of inflammatory processes in the teeth or gums – to the dentist;
• if the pain is a consequence of complications of acute respiratory viral infections or occurs with inflammation of the tonsils, larynx, sinuses, ears or lymph nodes – see an otolaryngologist;
• for neuralgia – to a neurologist.