What are the common causes of left side jaw pain by ear. How can you identify the symptoms of TMJ disorders. What treatments are available for jaw and ear pain. How do dental issues contribute to jaw discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for jaw pain.

Understanding the Connection Between Jaw and Ear Pain

Experiencing pain in both the jaw and ear simultaneously can be perplexing and uncomfortable. The close proximity of these areas often leads to overlapping sensations, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of discomfort. This phenomenon, known as referred pain, occurs when the brain misinterprets signals, causing pain to be felt in a location different from its origin.

The intricate network of nerves and muscles connecting the jaw and ear regions contributes to this shared pain experience. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Let’s explore the eight primary reasons behind left side jaw pain by ear, along with their associated symptoms and potential treatments.

TMJ Disorders: A Common Culprit in Jaw and Ear Pain

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a frequent source of combined jaw and ear pain. The TMJ, located adjacent to the temporal bone housing the inner ear, plays a vital role in jaw movement for activities like chewing and speaking. When this joint becomes inflamed or damaged, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

TMJ disorders affect approximately 10-15% of adults, with facial pain and ear discomfort being the most common complaints. Chronic cases persist for more than three months and may result from wear and tear or underlying medical conditions. It’s worth noting that TMJ disorders can sometimes be misdiagnosed, as symptoms may overlap with other conditions such as fibromyalgia, sleep apnea, anxiety, or depression.

Identifying TMJ Disorder Symptoms

• Facial pain
• Pain while chewing
• Jaw clicking or locking
• Ear ringing
• Hearing loss
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Teeth shifting and misalignment
• Headaches

Is TMJ pain always severe? Not necessarily. The intensity of TMJ-related discomfort can vary from mild to debilitating, depending on the individual case and underlying cause.

Arthritis and Its Impact on Jaw Health

Arthritis, in its various forms, can significantly contribute to jaw and ear pain. Two types of arthritis commonly affecting the TMJ are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis in the TMJ

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis affecting the temporomandibular joint. This degenerative condition results from the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage surrounding the joint. Patients often experience stiffness and pain in the affected area.

Can osteoarthritis in the TMJ be reversed? While the damage caused by osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, various treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis

Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune conditions where the body’s immune system attacks healthy joints. These forms of arthritis can affect multiple joints throughout the body, including the TMJ. Pain may fluctuate, with certain triggers causing flare-ups.

Do rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis always affect the jaw? While these conditions can affect any joint in the body, not all patients will experience jaw involvement. The severity and location of symptoms can vary widely among individuals.

Migraines: The Hidden Link to Jaw and Ear Pain

Migraines, often characterized by severe, recurrent headaches, can sometimes manifest as pain in the jaw and ear regions near the TMJ area. These intense headaches can be accompanied by various sensory sensitivities, making them particularly debilitating.

Migraine Symptoms Associated with Jaw and Ear Pain

• Throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
• Nausea
• Changes to vision or other senses
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell

Can jaw pain trigger a migraine? Yes, in some cases, jaw pain or tension can act as a trigger for migraine attacks. This relationship highlights the importance of addressing jaw-related issues in migraine management.

Swimmer’s Ear: When Water Activities Lead to Discomfort

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal often caused by water exposure or injury. Despite its name, this condition isn’t exclusive to swimmers and can affect anyone who frequently exposes their ears to water or experiences ear trauma.

Recognizing Swimmer’s Ear Symptoms

• Drainage from the ear
• Pain along the face and neck
• Reduced hearing
• Itching in the ear canal
• Fever

How quickly does swimmer’s ear develop? Symptoms of swimmer’s ear can appear within a few days of exposure to contaminated water or after an injury to the ear canal. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the condition from worsening and potentially spreading to surrounding areas, including the jaw.

Sinusitis: The Unexpected Cause of Jaw and Ear Pain

Sinusitis, an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, can lead to unexpected jaw and ear pain. This condition often stems from a cold or allergies and can be caused by viral or bacterial infections.

Identifying Sinusitis Symptoms

• Clogged nasal passages
• Green or yellow discharge
• Facial sensitivity
• Cough
• Headache
• Reduced sense of smell and taste

Can sinusitis cause tooth pain as well? Yes, in some cases, sinusitis can cause pain that radiates to the upper teeth, mimicking dental issues. This connection underscores the complex interplay between sinus, dental, and jaw health.

Dental Issues: The Root of Jaw and Ear Discomfort

Dental problems such as cavities, periodontal disease, and dental abscesses can be significant contributors to jaw and ear pain. These conditions arise from bacterial buildup on teeth and gums, potentially causing extensive damage if left untreated.

Common Symptoms of Dental Issues

• Pain throughout the lower face and neck
• Increased pain when lying down
• Swelling in the gums and face
• Loose or sensitive teeth
• Sensitivity to cold and hot foods and beverages
• Fever and flu-like symptoms (in case of abscesses)

How can you differentiate between dental pain and TMJ pain? While both can cause jaw discomfort, dental pain is often localized to a specific tooth or area of the mouth, whereas TMJ pain tends to be more diffuse and may be accompanied by jaw clicking or locking.

Teeth Grinding: The Silent Destroyer of Jaw Health

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common yet often overlooked cause of jaw and ear pain. This habit, which frequently occurs during sleep, can lead to various dental and jaw-related issues over time.

Consequences of Chronic Teeth Grinding

• TMJ disorders
• Tooth sensitivity
• Worn teeth
• Facial and neck pain
• Headaches
• Sleep disruption

Are there any visible signs of teeth grinding? Yes, your dentist may notice worn enamel, flattened tooth surfaces, or small chips in your teeth during routine check-ups, which can be indicators of bruxism.

Diagnostic Approaches for Jaw and Ear Pain

When seeking medical attention for jaw and ear pain, your healthcare provider will employ various diagnostic techniques to determine the underlying cause. The process typically begins with a comprehensive physical examination and a detailed discussion of your medical history.

Key Components of the Diagnostic Process

1. Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding areas
2. Evaluation of jaw movement and sounds
3. Ear examination
4. Assessment of vital signs
5. Review of recent dental procedures or illnesses
6. Discussion of potential stress, anxiety, or depression factors

What additional tests might be necessary for diagnosis? Depending on the suspected cause, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to get a more detailed view of the jaw joint and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options for Jaw and Ear Pain

The treatment approach for jaw and ear pain varies depending on the underlying cause. A multidisciplinary approach involving dentists, otolaryngologists, and pain specialists may be necessary for comprehensive care.

Common Treatment Modalities

• Pain management techniques (e.g., over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications)
• Physical therapy and jaw exercises
• Dental interventions (e.g., night guards for teeth grinding)
• Stress reduction techniques
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Corticosteroid injections for severe inflammation
• Surgery in severe cases (e.g., joint replacement for advanced TMJ disorders)

How long does it typically take to see improvement with treatment? The timeline for improvement can vary significantly depending on the cause and chosen treatment. Some patients may experience relief within days, while others may require weeks or months of ongoing therapy.

Preventing Jaw and Ear Pain: Proactive Measures

While not all causes of jaw and ear pain are preventable, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk and maintain optimal oral and aural health.

Preventive Strategies

• Practice good oral hygiene to prevent dental issues
• Use proper ear protection when swimming or exposed to loud noises
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling
• Avoid excessive jaw movements (e.g., gum chewing, wide yawning)
• Maintain good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
• Stay hydrated to support overall health and reduce the risk of infections

Can dietary changes help prevent jaw pain? In some cases, yes. Eating softer foods during flare-ups and avoiding extremely chewy or hard foods can help reduce stress on the jaw joint.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Jaw and Ear Pain

While occasional mild discomfort in the jaw or ear area may not be cause for immediate concern, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Attention

• Severe, persistent pain that interferes with daily activities
• Sudden onset of jaw locking or inability to close the mouth
• Signs of infection (e.g., fever, swelling, redness)
• Hearing loss or persistent ringing in the ears
• Jaw pain accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath (which may indicate a heart problem)

Should you see a dentist or a medical doctor for jaw pain? The answer depends on the suspected cause. If you believe the pain is related to a dental issue, start with a dentist. For other causes or if you’re unsure, consult your primary care physician who can refer you to the appropriate specialist if necessary.

Living with Chronic Jaw and Ear Pain: Coping Strategies

For individuals dealing with chronic jaw and ear pain, developing effective coping strategies is essential for maintaining quality of life. While medical treatments are crucial, lifestyle adjustments and self-care techniques can significantly impact day-to-day comfort and functionality.

Effective Coping Mechanisms

• Heat and cold therapy for pain relief
• Gentle jaw stretches and exercises as recommended by a physical therapist
• Mindfulness and meditation practices to manage pain perception
• Dietary modifications to avoid triggering foods
• Ergonomic adjustments to reduce strain during work or daily activities
• Support groups or counseling to address the emotional impact of chronic pain

How can you balance pain management with daily responsibilities? Creating a personalized pain management plan with your healthcare provider can help you navigate daily activities while minimizing discomfort. This may include scheduling regular breaks, using assistive devices, or adjusting your work environment.

The Future of Jaw and Ear Pain Treatment: Emerging Therapies

As medical research advances, new treatments for jaw and ear pain continue to emerge. These innovative approaches aim to provide more effective, less invasive solutions for patients struggling with chronic discomfort.

Promising Developments in Pain Management

• Regenerative medicine techniques (e.g., stem cell therapy for joint repair)
• Advanced imaging technologies for more precise diagnosis
• Neurostimulation devices to interrupt pain signals
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiling
• Virtual reality therapy for pain distraction and management

Will these new treatments be widely available soon? While many of these therapies show promise, it’s important to note that they are still in various stages of research and development. It may take several years before they become widely accessible treatment options.

Understanding the complex interplay between jaw and ear health is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment of related pain. By recognizing the diverse causes, from TMJ disorders to dental issues, patients and healthcare providers can work together to develop targeted treatment plans. Whether dealing with acute discomfort or managing a chronic condition, a multifaceted approach combining medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and emerging therapies offers the best path forward for those affected by jaw and ear pain.

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.

Causes, remedies, and when to see a doctor

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Pain in the ear and jaw can range from a mild ache to intense pain. Numerous conditions can cause ear and jaw pain, including mouth or ear infections, joint injuries, and tooth grinding.

In this article, we discuss the most common causes of ear and jaw pain. We also suggest home remedies to try before seeing a doctor and explain the medical treatment options.

Share on PinterestA problem with the temporomandibular joint may cause ear and jaw pain.

Numerous conditions can cause ear and jaw pain.

It can be difficult for a doctor to diagnose the cause based on these symptoms alone, so they will take into account risk factors and recent history. For example, a person who has not been to the dentist in many years and has a history of tooth pain may have a cavity.

The following are some common causes of ear and jaw pain:

TMJ dysfunction

Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause a wide range of symptoms, including, most prominently, ear and jaw pain. Some people also get headaches, eye pain, and even sinus pressure. Several conditions and factors can cause TMJ pain, including:

• grinding the teeth
• problems with the alignment of the jaw or teeth
• muscle injuries
• arthritis

Although TMJ can be painful, home treatment often helps manage or even eliminate symptoms.

Sternocleidomastoid pain

The sternocleidomastoid is a thick muscle that extends from just under the ear down to the collarbone. Injuries to this muscle can cause jaw and ear pain, as well as sinus pain, eye pressure, and other symptoms that a person might mistake for signs of a cold or infection.

When a person has these symptoms but has no injuries and no other signs of infection — such as a fever or runny nose — an injury to the sternocleidomastoid may be the culprit. A doctor can rule out other causes, such as infections of the middle or inner ear, by carrying out a physical examination.

Oral infections

A tooth abscess can sometimes cause pain that radiates to the ear or jaw.

In most cases, a person will also have swelling in the gums or tender spots in and around the teeth. Sometimes, the pain in the teeth disappears and then reappears as pain in the ear or jaw, which may signal that the infection is spreading.

Ear infections

An ear infection can cause intense pain in, around, or behind the ear. Sometimes, this pain radiates to the jaw, sinuses, or teeth.

In most cases, viruses or bacteria cause ear infections. Ear infections can also happen when water or other fluids build up in the ear.

A person with an ear infection may have other symptoms, such as fever, congestion, and low energy. The pain of an ear infection can be intense and may get rapidly worse without treatment.

Untreated ear infections can spread to other parts of the body. Some people develop an infection called mastoiditis, which is an infection in the mastoid bone near the ear. When this happens, a person may experience swelling close to the ear, hearing problems, or a high fever. Severe cases of mastoiditis can be life threatening and require immediate treatment.

Jaw injuries

An injury, such as a broken jaw or a strain or sprain in the surrounding muscles, could cause jaw pain that radiates to the ear. If a person notices ear and jaw pain shortly after a fall, a car accident, or a blow to the head, they may have a jaw injury that needs medical treatment.

Tooth grinding

Grinding the teeth at night places stress on the muscles of the face, neck, and jaw. The tension can cause pain in the jaw, in the ears, and on the front or side of the face. Some people may also damage their teeth, slowly grinding them down or even breaking them.

It is safe to treat ear and jaw pain at home when it is not due to an underlying infection or a serious injury. People can try the following strategies:

• Sleep with a mouth guard to prevent tooth grinding. Different types of mouth guard are available for purchase online. If the mouth guard helps but does not cure the symptoms, a person might need a custom mouth guard from a dentist.
• Try applying heat or ice to the injury, as this can ease pain and promote healing. Learn how to make a heating pad here.
• Gently massage the jaw to reduce muscle tension.
• Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
• Try stretching the sternocleidomastoid by tilting the ear down toward the shoulder and holding it there for 5–10 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
• Stretch the jaw muscles by opening the mouth and jutting out the lower jaw, then holding this position for 5–10 seconds. Next, try moving the teeth forward and back and from side to side in a circular motion.

Infections almost always require antibiotics. Sometimes, a person needs other medical treatments, particularly in the case of serious infections, such as mastoiditis.

If home remedies fail, medical treatment options include:

• orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and jaw
• TMJ surgery to reduce TMJ pain
• a custom fitted device to prevent tooth grinding
• mental health treatment, for when a person grinds their teeth because of anxiety
• prescription medication for arthritis
• physical therapy to treat jaw injuries or manage arthritis more effectively
• treatment for cavities, such as fillings, root canals, or crowns
• stronger pain relievers for TMJ disorders or arthritis

It is best to see a doctor for ear and jaw pain if:

• there are signs of an infection, such as fever or swelling
• the pain appears immediately after an injury
• the gums are swollen or the teeth hurt
• symptoms do not improve within a few days of home treatment
• a doctor prescribes antibiotics or other treatment, but treatment does not help
• ear or jaw pain becomes unbearable
• a baby or young child with ear and jaw pain does not stop crying

Ear and jaw pain can be extremely unpleasant. Prompt medical treatment can help, even when there is an underlying chronic condition.

If home treatment fails, a person should speak to their doctor. There is no reason to suffer through the pain or delay treatment.

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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 amount.

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 mouth guard.

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.

causes and price of treatment in Moscow

Author: Sergey Brodsky
Deputy Chief Physician, Candidate of Medical Sciences
Sciences by specialty: dentistry and medical microbiology

What to do if there is pain when opening the mouth and chewing in the area of ​​the jaw and ear, on the left and right sides? How to relieve and cure pain when opening the mouth in Moscow and how much does it cost? Read more. ..

Symptoms such as severe and sharp pain in the jaw when opening the mouth have several causes. With the exception of injuries and specific pathologies, the most common causes of pain when opening the mouth are diseases of the TMJ and masticatory muscles. As a rule, the tone of the masticatory and mimic muscles first changes, and after a while functional changes occur in the jaw joints.
It must be remembered that the lower jaw has two jaw joints, so pathologies are possible in which there is pain in the jaw both on the right and on the left when opening the mouth, chewing and even talking.

In diseases of the masticatory muscles only, pain in the neck and temple is most characteristic when opening the mouth, as well as when chewing solid food, less often when yawning. This is due to a decrease in the elasticity of muscle fibers as a result of the degeneration of muscle tissue into connective scar tissue and the appearance of muscle scars. More often this can be observed in the example of the masticatory muscles themselves.
Pain near the ear and pain in the joint when opening the mouth suggest that the masticatory muscles and TMJ are also involved in the disease. Pain in the jaw joint when opening the mouth is caused by a change and displacement of the elements of the TMJ. In particular, often gnatologists fix the pathological displacement of the jaw disk forward, and the head of the lower jaw up and back. This combination leads to stretching of the anterior and posterior disc ligaments and pressure on the bilaminar zone of the TMJ, which contains the main pain receptors and the venous plexus.
From the point of view of interdisciplinary dentistry, pain when opening the mouth and chewing is associated not only with the maxillofacial region, but also with such a concept as postural disorders . Neuromuscular dentists and osteopaths in the process of diagnosis take into account the condition of the spine, neck muscles and spatial disturbances in the position of some organs and tissues.

How to properly treat pain in the ear and mandibular joint when opening the mouth?
First of all, it should be understood that the treatment of pain with a wide opening of the mouth, chewing and yawning on your own, at home is unacceptable. This will only lead to a loss of time and increased pain up to the development of migraines and neuralgia of the facial nerves.
To cure pain in the jaw, near the ear, when opening the mouth, this is a matter for qualified dentists and other specialists, respectively, the sooner you see a doctor, the less suffering and complications will fall to your lot.

Briefly, the main points:

• pain relief with NSAIDs;
• dissociative night guard;
• MRI TMJ;
• electromyography of masticatory muscles and, based on it, TMJ splint therapy;
• MPI mandibular analysis;
• performing dental physiotherapy of the TMJ and masticatory muscles;
• determination of the “centric” – the central ratio of the jaws and its fixation with the help of ceramic crowns or onlays.