What causes jawline pain under the ear. How is TMJ disorder related to ear and jaw discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for jaw pain near the ear. What are effective treatments for TMJ-related jaw pain.

Understanding the Connection Between Jaw Pain and Ear Discomfort

Experiencing pain in your jaw near your ear can be both uncomfortable and concerning. This type of discomfort often stems from issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jawbone to your skull. The close proximity of the jaw and ear can sometimes make it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of pain. Understanding the potential causes and symptoms can help you seek appropriate treatment and relief.

The Anatomy of the TMJ

The temporomandibular joint is a complex structure that allows for various jaw movements essential for speaking, chewing, and facial expressions. It consists of bones, muscles, ligaments, and a cushioning disc. When any of these components are compromised, it can lead to pain and dysfunction.

Common Causes of Jaw Pain Near the Ear

Several conditions can contribute to jaw pain that radiates to or near the ear. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some of the most frequent culprits:

• TMJ disorders
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ear infections
• Sinusitis
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)

TMJ Disorders: A Primary Suspect

TMJ disorders are often the primary cause of jaw pain near the ear. These conditions affect the joint and surrounding muscles, leading to various symptoms. Can TMJ disorders cause ear pain? Yes, the pain from TMJ issues can often radiate to the ear area, causing confusion about the source of discomfort.

Recognizing Symptoms of TMJ-Related Jaw Pain

Identifying the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders can help you determine whether your jaw pain is related to this condition. Common signs include:

1. Pain or tenderness in the jaw area
2. Aching pain in and around the ear
3. Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
4. Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
5. Facial pain or headaches
6. Locking of the jaw joint

Osteoarthritis and Its Impact on Jaw Health

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the temporomandibular joint, leading to jaw pain near the ear. How does osteoarthritis affect the TMJ? This condition causes the cartilage in the joint to wear down over time, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility of the jaw.

Symptoms of TMJ Osteoarthritis

Individuals with TMJ osteoarthritis may experience:

• Gradual onset of pain in the jaw and ear area
• Stiffness in the jaw, especially in the morning
• Crepitus (grating or crackling sounds) when moving the jaw
• Limited range of motion in the jaw

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Effects on the TMJ

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that can impact various joints in the body, including the TMJ. How does rheumatoid arthritis affect jaw pain? In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage. When RA affects the TMJ, it can lead to jaw pain that extends to the ear area.

Distinguishing Features of RA-Related TMJ Pain

Rheumatoid arthritis-induced TMJ pain often presents with the following characteristics:

• Symmetrical involvement (affecting both sides of the jaw)
• Morning stiffness that improves with activity
• Associated fatigue and general malaise
• Potential involvement of other joints in the body

The Role of Ear Infections in Jaw Discomfort

Ear infections can sometimes be mistaken for TMJ-related jaw pain due to their proximity. How can you differentiate between ear infection pain and TMJ pain? While both conditions can cause discomfort in the ear area, ear infections often come with additional symptoms such as fever, reduced hearing, and sometimes discharge from the ear.

Types of Ear Infections That May Cause Jaw Pain

Several types of ear infections can lead to pain that radiates to the jaw area:

• Otitis media (middle ear infection)
• Otitis externa (swimmer’s ear)
• Mastoiditis (infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear)

Sinusitis: An Overlooked Cause of Jaw and Ear Pain

Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinus cavities, can sometimes manifest as pain in the jaw and ear area. How does sinusitis contribute to jaw pain? The maxillary sinuses, located in the cheekbones, can become inflamed and cause pressure that radiates to the jaw and ear regions.

Identifying Sinusitis-Related Jaw Pain

To determine if your jaw pain is related to sinusitis, look for these accompanying symptoms:

• Facial pressure and pain, especially in the cheek area
• Nasal congestion or discharge
• Reduced sense of smell
• Headache
• Fatigue

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) and Its Impact on Jaw Health

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common habit that can lead to significant jaw pain and TMJ issues. How does teeth grinding affect the jaw and ear area? The repetitive clenching and grinding motions can put excessive stress on the jaw muscles and joints, leading to pain that may radiate to the ear.

Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth

If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth, look out for these indicators:

• Worn down, flattened, or chipped teeth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Tired or tight jaw muscles upon waking
• Headaches starting in the temples
• Indentations on the tongue or inside of the cheeks

Effective Treatments for TMJ-Related Jaw Pain

When dealing with jaw pain near the ear, particularly if it’s related to TMJ disorders, various treatment options are available. What are the most effective treatments for TMJ-related jaw pain? The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms, but may include:

Conservative Home Remedies

For mild cases of TMJ-related jaw pain, these home remedies may provide relief:

• Applying ice or heat packs to the affected area
• Practicing gentle jaw stretches and exercises
• Avoiding hard or chewy foods
• Maintaining good posture
• Stress reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing

Medical Interventions for TMJ Disorders

If home remedies aren’t sufficient, medical treatments may be necessary. These can include:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
2. Prescription muscle relaxants
3. Oral splints or mouthguards to prevent teeth grinding
4. Physical therapy to improve jaw mobility and strength
5. Corticosteroid injections for severe inflammation

Surgical Options for Severe TMJ Issues

In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical interventions may be considered. These can include:

• Arthrocentesis: A minimally invasive procedure to remove debris from the joint
• TMJ arthroscopy: A surgical procedure to repair or reposition the joint disc
• Open-joint surgery: For more complex cases requiring extensive repair

When to Seek Medical Attention for Jaw Pain Near the Ear

While mild jaw discomfort can often be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation. When should you see a doctor for jaw pain near the ear? Consider seeking medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Inability to open or close your mouth fully
• Persistent clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
• Swelling in the jaw or face
• Fever accompanying jaw pain
• Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together

Preventing TMJ-Related Jaw Pain: Lifestyle Changes and Habits

While not all cases of TMJ disorders can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk or severity of jaw pain near the ear. How can you prevent TMJ-related jaw pain? Consider implementing these habits:

1. Practice stress management techniques to reduce jaw clenching
2. Maintain good posture, especially when working at a desk
3. Avoid excessive gum chewing or chewing on hard objects
4. Use proper form when exercising, particularly during weightlifting
5. Seek treatment for sleep disorders that may contribute to teeth grinding
6. Wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your jaw

Dietary Considerations for TMJ Health

Your diet can also play a role in managing TMJ-related jaw pain. Consider these dietary tips:

• Choose softer foods when experiencing jaw pain
• Cut food into smaller pieces to reduce the need for excessive chewing
• Avoid extremely hot or cold foods that may aggravate sensitive teeth
• Stay hydrated to maintain overall joint health
• Consider supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, which may support joint health (consult with a healthcare provider first)

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis for Effective Treatment

Given the various potential causes of jaw pain near the ear, obtaining an accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. How is TMJ-related jaw pain diagnosed? Healthcare providers may use a combination of methods, including:

• Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding areas
• Review of medical history and symptoms
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs
• Dental examinations to assess bite alignment and tooth wear

The Role of Specialists in TMJ Treatment

Depending on the underlying cause of your jaw pain, you may be referred to specialists such as:

1. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
2. Orthodontists
3. Rheumatologists (for arthritis-related issues)
4. Physical therapists specializing in TMJ disorders
5. Pain management specialists

Long-Term Management of Chronic TMJ Disorders

For individuals with chronic TMJ disorders, long-term management strategies are essential. How can you manage chronic TMJ pain effectively? Consider these approaches:

• Develop a comprehensive treatment plan with your healthcare provider
• Regularly practice jaw exercises and stretches
• Use relaxation techniques to reduce overall muscle tension
• Maintain good sleep hygiene to prevent nighttime teeth grinding
• Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Jaw Pain

Chronic jaw pain can have significant psychological effects. It’s important to address these aspects of TMJ disorders:

1. Seek support from mental health professionals if chronic pain is affecting your mood or quality of life
2. Consider joining support groups for individuals with TMJ disorders
3. Practice mindfulness and other stress-reduction techniques to cope with pain
4. Communicate openly with friends and family about your condition and needs

Emerging Treatments and Research in TMJ Disorders

The field of TMJ treatment is continually evolving, with new approaches being researched and developed. What are some promising new treatments for TMJ disorders? While many are still in the experimental stages, some emerging therapies include:

• Stem cell therapy to regenerate damaged joint tissues
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to promote healing
• Botulinum toxin injections for muscle-related TMJ pain
• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Customized 3D-printed joint replacements for severe cases

The Future of TMJ Treatment

As research progresses, the future of TMJ treatment looks promising. Areas of focus include:

1. Personalized medicine approaches tailored to individual patients
2. Non-invasive treatments using ultrasound or electromagnetic therapy
3. Improved understanding of the genetic factors contributing to TMJ disorders
4. Development of more effective pain management strategies
5. Integration of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment planning

Understanding the complexities of jaw pain near the ear, particularly in relation to TMJ disorders, is crucial for effective management and treatment. By recognizing symptoms, seeking appropriate medical care, and implementing lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the impact of TMJ-related discomfort. As research continues to advance, new and more effective treatments may become available, offering hope to those struggling with chronic jaw pain. Remember, early intervention and a comprehensive approach to treatment often lead to the best outcomes in managing TMJ disorders and related jaw pain near the ear.

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.