Tmj and ear infection. TMJ and Ear Pain: Understanding the Connection and Treatment Options

31.08.202208.06.2023 by alexxlab

How are TMJ disorders and ear pain related. What are the common symptoms of TMJ disorders. How can you differentiate between TMJ-related ear pain and other types of ear discomfort. What treatment options are available for TMJ disorders and associated ear pain.

Содержание

The Temporomandibular Joint: A Crucial Connection

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a vital role in our daily lives, yet many people are unaware of its importance until they experience discomfort. This remarkable joint connects the jawbone to the skull, acting as a sliding hinge that facilitates essential functions such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Understanding the TMJ is crucial for recognizing and addressing related disorders that can cause significant discomfort, including ear pain.

What exactly is the TMJ?

The TMJ is a complex joint that connects the temporal bone of the skull to the mandible, or lower jawbone. Its unique structure allows for a wide range of movements, including:

Forward and backward motion
Side-to-side movement
Opening and closing of the mouth

This versatility is essential for various facial expressions and daily activities involving the mouth and jaw.

TMJ Disorders: Causes and Types

TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, although the exact causes are not always clear. Some common contributors to TMJ problems include:

Jaw injuries
Arthritis
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Excessive gum chewing
Misaligned bite

Understanding the different types of TMJ disorders can help in identifying and addressing the specific issues affecting an individual. There are three main categories of TMJ disorders:

1. Myofascial pain

This is the most prevalent type of TMJ disorder. It is characterized by deep, aching pain in the muscles surrounding the joint. Myofascial pain can result from muscle tension, stress, or overuse of the jaw muscles.

2. Internal derangement of the joint

This condition is associated with a dislocated joint or trauma to the jaw. It may involve a displaced disc within the joint or other structural abnormalities that interfere with proper joint function.

3. Degenerative joint disease

Arthritis is a common example of a degenerative joint disorder that can affect the TMJ. This condition involves the breakdown of cartilage within the joint, leading to pain and reduced mobility.

Recognizing TMJ Pain: Characteristics and Symptoms

TMJ pain can manifest in various ways, making it essential to recognize the diverse symptoms associated with this condition. The discomfort may range from a dull, persistent ache to a sharp, searing pain. Understanding these characteristics can help individuals identify potential TMJ issues and seek appropriate care.

How does TMJ pain typically present itself?

TMJ pain often becomes more noticeable during jaw movement, such as when talking, chewing, swallowing, or yawning. The discomfort may extend beyond the jaw area, affecting various regions of the head and neck, including:

Side of the head
Neck
Temple
Cheek
Face
Lower jaw
Teeth

What are other common symptoms of TMJ disorders?

In addition to pain, individuals with TMJ disorders may experience a range of other symptoms that can impact their daily lives:

Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
Locking of the joint
Difficulty opening the mouth fully
Ringing sound in the ear (tinnitus)

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience persistent ear pain accompanied by any of these symptoms, as they may indicate a TMJ disorder rather than a simple ear infection.

The Link Between TMJ and Ear Pain

One of the most intriguing aspects of TMJ disorders is their ability to cause ear pain, often leading to confusion and misdiagnosis. Understanding the connection between TMJ and ear discomfort is essential for proper treatment and relief.

Why does TMJ cause ear pain?

The close proximity of the temporomandibular joint to the auditory canal is the primary reason for TMJ-related ear pain. When the TMJ becomes inflamed or dysfunctional, it can affect nearby structures, including the ear. This anatomical relationship explains why TMJ disorders can manifest as ear discomfort, even in the absence of an actual ear infection.

Can TMJ cause other ear-related symptoms?

Yes, TMJ disorders can lead to various ear-related symptoms beyond pain. One common issue is tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear that can be particularly bothersome for some individuals. Additionally, some people with TMJ disorders may experience a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, similar to the sensation experienced during changes in altitude.

Differentiating TMJ Ear Pain from Other Types of Ear Discomfort

Given the similarity between TMJ-related ear pain and other types of ear discomfort, it’s crucial to differentiate between the two to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. While both conditions can cause significant discomfort, they have distinct characteristics and underlying causes.

How can you tell if ear pain is related to TMJ or another issue?

Several factors can help distinguish TMJ-related ear pain from other types of ear discomfort:

Accompanying symptoms: TMJ ear pain often occurs alongside other TMJ-related issues, such as jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty opening the mouth fully.
Pain location: TMJ pain may radiate to the ear but is often felt in the jaw and surrounding areas as well.
Pain triggers: TMJ-related ear pain may worsen with jaw movement or when applying pressure to the TMJ area.
Absence of other ear symptoms: Unlike ear infections, TMJ-related ear pain typically doesn’t involve discharge, fever, or significant hearing loss.

If you’re unsure about the cause of your ear pain, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional. An ENT specialist can examine your hearing and eardrum to determine if your earache is related to the TMJ or another underlying condition.

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders and Associated Ear Pain

Addressing TMJ disorders and the associated ear pain requires a tailored approach based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. From self-care measures to professional interventions, various treatment options are available to provide relief and improve overall jaw function.

What self-care remedies can help alleviate TMJ pain?

For mild TMJ pain, several self-care strategies can help reduce soreness and tension in the joint:

Eating soft foods to minimize jaw strain
Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce overall tension
Performing gentle TMJ stretches and exercises
Avoiding excessive gum chewing
Consciously relaxing the jaw and avoiding clenching
Applying moist heat to the affected area

Are there medications that can help with TMJ pain?

Yes, certain medications can provide relief from TMJ pain and associated symptoms:

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
Muscle relaxants prescribed by a healthcare professional to alleviate tension in the jaw muscles
In some cases, tricyclic antidepressants may be prescribed for their pain-relieving properties

What professional treatments are available for TMJ disorders?

For more severe or persistent TMJ issues, professional interventions may be necessary:

Mouthguards or night guards to prevent teeth grinding and reduce joint stress
Orthodontic appliances to correct misaligned bites that contribute to TMJ problems
Physical therapy to improve jaw mobility and strengthen supporting muscles
Botox injections to relax overactive jaw muscles in some cases
In rare instances, surgical interventions may be considered for severe structural issues

Lifestyle Changes and Long-Term Management of TMJ Disorders

Managing TMJ disorders often requires a combination of treatment approaches and long-term lifestyle modifications. By adopting certain habits and making conscious changes, individuals can significantly reduce TMJ symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

How can stress reduction techniques help with TMJ disorders?

Stress is a common contributor to TMJ problems, often leading to increased muscle tension and teeth grinding. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into daily life can have a positive impact on TMJ symptoms:

Practice mindfulness meditation to promote relaxation
Engage in regular exercise to reduce overall stress levels
Try progressive muscle relaxation techniques, focusing on the jaw and facial muscles
Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to address stress and anxiety

What dietary changes can support TMJ health?

Modifying your diet can help reduce strain on the TMJ and alleviate symptoms:

Choose softer foods that require less chewing
Cut food into smaller pieces to minimize jaw movement
Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that stress the jaw
Limit caffeine intake, as it can increase muscle tension
Stay hydrated to maintain proper joint lubrication

How important is proper posture for TMJ health?

Maintaining good posture is crucial for overall TMJ health. Poor posture, particularly forward head posture, can place additional strain on the jaw and neck muscles, exacerbating TMJ symptoms. To improve posture:

Be mindful of your head and neck position throughout the day
Use ergonomic workstations to promote proper alignment
Perform regular stretches and exercises to strengthen postural muscles
Consider working with a physical therapist to address postural issues

When to Seek Professional Help for TMJ and Ear Pain

While many cases of TMJ-related ear pain can be managed with self-care measures, there are instances where professional intervention is necessary. Recognizing when to seek help is crucial for preventing the progression of TMJ disorders and ensuring proper treatment.

What are the signs that indicate the need for professional TMJ treatment?

Consider consulting a healthcare professional if you experience:

Persistent pain in the jaw or ear that doesn’t respond to self-care measures
Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully
Frequent jaw locking or clicking sounds
Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together
Headaches or neck pain that you suspect may be related to jaw issues
Any TMJ symptoms that significantly impact your daily life or quality of sleep

Which healthcare professionals should you consult for TMJ issues?

Several types of healthcare providers can assist with TMJ disorders:

Dentists: Often the first point of contact for TMJ issues, they can provide initial assessments and treatments
Orthodontists: Specialists who can address bite-related TMJ problems
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons: Experts in treating complex TMJ disorders that may require surgical intervention
Physical therapists: Can provide exercises and manual therapy to improve jaw function
ENT specialists: Helpful in ruling out ear-related causes of pain
Pain management specialists: Can offer comprehensive approaches to managing chronic TMJ pain

Remember, early intervention can often prevent the progression of TMJ disorders and lead to more effective treatment outcomes. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re concerned about persistent TMJ symptoms or ear pain.

How TMJ And Ear Pain Are Related And Treated

What is The TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the bone that forms the side of the skull (temporal bone) and the lower jawbone (mandible), which is near your ear. This joint enables you to move your jaw forward, backward, and side-to-side. The main signs of TMJ disorder are a painful jaw and limited movement in the area.

TMJ Disorders

Although the causes of TMJ disorders are often unclear, discomfort in this joint can be caused by an injury to the jaw, arthritis, teeth grinding, excessive gum chewing, or a misaligned bite. There are three main types of TMJ disorders:

Myofascial pain: This is the most common type of TMJ disorder. It is marked by deep, aching pain in the muscles of the joint.
Internal derangement of the joint: This is associated with a dislocated joint or trauma to the jaw.
Degenerative disease: Arthritis is a type of degenerative joint disorder that can affect the TMJ.

TMJ Pain Characteristics

TMJ pain may be a dull, ongoing irritation or a sharp, searing pain. This discomfort may be more apparent when you move your jaw to talk, chew, swallow, or yawn. In addition to experiencing ear and jaw pain, you might also feel soreness along the side of your head, neck, temple, cheek, face, lower jaw, and teeth. Other common symptoms of TMJ also include:

A clicking/popping sound when opening the mouth
Locking of the joint
Difficulty opening the mouth
Ringing sound in the ear

Remember to consult with your doctor if your aching ear is companied by any of these symptoms.

Why TMJ Ear Pain Occurs

An aching ear is a common symptom for people with a TMJ disorder. Because the TMJ is near the auditory canal, pain and inflammation in this joint can affect the ear. A ringing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus, is often a part of TMJ ear pain. An ENT specialist can examine your hearing and eardrum to determine if your earache is related to the TMJ.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment for disorders of the TMJ depends on the cause and severity. If you are experiencing mild pain, your doctor may recommend some of these self-care remedies to reduce soreness and tension in the joint:

Eat soft-foods
Try relaxation techniques
Do TMJ stretches and exercises
Avoid chewing gum
Avoid clenching or tensing your jaw
Apply moist heat to the area

Anti-inflammatory medication and muscle relaxants can also help to relieve tenderness. A mouthguard may be a treatment option if your TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding; this will prevent damage to the joint. Orthodontic appliances are a great way to correct the upper and lower teeth, as misalignment can result in problems with the temporomandibular joint.

Finding the cause of your ear pain is important because it will lead to getting the correct care. If your earache is a sign of TMJ disorder, the good news is that you can reduce pain and discomfort with a few lifestyle changes. Incorporate breathing exercises to assist with relaxation, which can ease tension on the joint. Speak with your dentist or orthodontist if your TMJ pain is related to an incorrect bite.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Was this article helpful?

Neutral

Thank you for submitting your feedback!

If you’d like a response, Contact Us.

Your earaches could be a TMJ issue

Believe it or not, your earaches could be a TMJ issue. Many people simply assume they suffer from chronic ear infections when in fact they are dealing with temporomandibular joint problems.

What does ear pain from TMJ disorder feel like?

Of course, every patient may manifest symptoms differently but the following are some of the most commonly experienced issues:

Ear pain when speaking, chewing or swallowing
Ear infection
Tinnitus or ringing or other noises in the ears
Aching, dull pain
A feeling of fullness within the eustachian tubes (the tubes that equalize pressure in the ear and connect the middle ear to the upper portion of the throat)

Instead of merely brushing off these symptoms as some viral ear infection or something you may have picked up from swimming lessons, it is vital to see your doctor to determine the underlying cause. If you are experiencing any blood drainage, pus or the pain does not leave after a few days, be sure to visit your health care provider immediately.

Your best bet may be a dentist

Of course, if you suspect that your issues are TMJ related and are aware of other symptoms such as clenching your teeth, headaches, grinding your teeth, chronic neck or shoulder pain etc. you may want to simply make your dental appointment first.

What is the temporomandibular joint?

You have one of these joints on each side of your head. It is the “hinge” that connects the jaw to the skull. The temporomandibular joint is located in close proximity to the middle ear and the ear canal. The muscles surrounding this exceptionally important muscle, along with the ligaments and fascia that hold the bones in place, are intimately connected with the ear and the subsequent nerves that offer support. When this joint becomes inflamed, pain can transcend into the ear region, masquerading as an earache.

Dental relief

Dentists specialize in not only the mouth but the entire anatomy of the face, head and neck regions. And specially trained dentists who use the TruDenta system of diagnosis and treatment are able to see past the presenting symptoms of ear pain and other issues, including chronic migraines, to determine that the jaw is at the heart of the issue.

Predisposing dental factors

A tooth infection can cause pain to radiate in unlikely places. Some individuals are chronic tooth grinders however, they may be unaware. Many people are first notified of their grinding habits during a regular dental check up when the dentist notices that their teeth are worn down ultra smooth. Some people simply never associate waking up with a headache and a sore jaw with any clenching or bruxism (grinding) issues. However, many patients are asymptomatic and never experience chronic pain. Only once acute pain sets in and doesn’t disappear do they begin investigating.

Clenching and bruxism are involuntary behaviors that may be stress related. Some patients begin to notice that they find themselves clenching their teeth at the office or in place of yelling at their young children. Only when one is aware of their issues can they take steps, such as wearing a mouthguard to protect their teeth and TMJ muscles. Your earaches could be a TMJ issue; therefore, if you find yourself or a loved one experiencing any chronic or acute earache symptoms, be sure to book a dental appointment. Misalignment is often the culprit and your dentist can discuss the appropriate measures to have you living pain free once and for all.

Temporomandibular Joint and Tinnitus – Tinnitus Neuro-Tinnitus Treatment

17
Apr
2019

17 Apr 2019 News, Causes of subjective tinnitus ah, in evidence not needs. The same goes for neck problems. Tinnitus is often caused by injuries to the jaw and neck, which we successfully ignore in our youth. But then, when talking, chewing, turning and tilting the head begin to cause tinnitus, many seek medical help. And they do exactly the right thing. Modern medicine has many opportunities to save such patients from annoying and annoying tinnitus.

Contents of the article:

1 Features of the TMJ
2 How does the pathology of the TMJ manifest itself?
- 2.1 Diagnosis: where and by whom?
3 How to treat?
4 Neck problems and tinnitus

TMJ features

The temporomandibular joint is a complex articulation that allows the jaw to move not only up and down, but also sideways. In addition, it is controlled by the most powerful muscles of the human body – chewing.

Problems with it can be different:

dislocation of the fibrous disc inside the articular cavity;
injury of articular surfaces;
excessive muscular effort applied to the jaw;
arthritis, as a manifestation of systemic pathology and arthrosis, as a result of wear and tear of the joint;
infectious processes spreading to the TMJ from the ENT organs, the mastoid process.

How does TMJ pathology manifest itself?

Typical symptoms for the problems listed above are pain when opening the mouth and tinnitus. The reason for the first is clear: swelling of the capsule, friction of the articular heads. As for tinnitus, things are a bit more complicated here.

First, the masticatory muscles are located next to the muscle fibers that control the structures of the middle ear. Therefore, the excessive tone of the masticatory muscles affects hearing, contributes to the appearance of tinnitus.

Secondly, in the pathology of the TMJ, small ligaments that go from the joint to the auditory ossicles of the middle ear may be involved in the process. Comments are superfluous.

Thirdly, the nerve centers that control the work of the temporomandibular joint are closely connected with the parts of the brain responsible for hearing and interpreting sounds. If one system suffers, then the function of the second is also impaired.

In addition, when a joint is dysfunctional, it starts making sounds on its own.

And quite characteristic: clicking with each opening and closing of the mouth, creaking, even grinding. Very annoying and stressful condition.

Diagnostics: where and who?

For most patients, it is enough to see a dentist. But it is also worth preparing for instrumental additional examination: X-ray, CT, and sometimes MRI.

In modern conditions, it is even possible to do arthroscopy: to examine the state of the temporomandibular joint with the help of a microcamera inserted into its cavity.

How to treat?

In many cases, TMJ problems are helped by simple recommendations:

switch to a soft food diet;
relaxation exercises for chewing muscles;
use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
people with bruxism (teeth grinding at night) should have a special mouth guard fitted.

But sometimes, in order for the noise to finally subside, one has to resort to surgery and even prosthetics of individual structures of the joint.

Neck problems and tinnitus

The cervical spine is very vulnerable, especially in case of an accident. It is also prone to inflammation and osteochondrosis.
Regarding common diseases of the cervical region, we have a separate article on our website (opens in a new tab).

Read about the pathology of the cervical spine

Tinnitus associated with neck pathology is often accompanied by psycho-emotional disorders (depression), cognitive (poor memory, difficulty concentrating) and somatic (dizziness) disorders.

Naturally, in order to help such patients get rid of tinnitus, it is necessary to establish the source of the problem as accurately as possible, for which the entire arsenal of techniques (X-ray, CT, MRI) is used. And only after a complete examination, it is possible to draw up an algorithm for the treatment of a particular patient.

The Tinnitus Neuro clinic has everything you need for professional assistance to people with cervicogenic tinnitus: call us 8-495-374-92-03 or contact us through the website.

Was this article helpful?

Yes

You can subscribe to our mailing list and learn more about tinnitus, how to deal with it and scientific advances:

Your e-mail

No

We’re sorry!

How can this article be improved?

Tinnitus and TMJ

2020-11-02T11:06:09+03:00

Have you ever experienced a noise or buzzing in your ears that only you can hear? This perception of sound can manifest itself and disturb in different ways. If you have been to many ENT specialists and they cannot find the cause, then you should look at the TMJ, as one of the causes of tinnitus is the underlying disorder of the TMJ (TMJ dysfunction).

TMJ is often referred to as the “great impostor” because its symptoms can mimic those of many other diseases. Until recently, these seemingly unrelated symptoms were misdiagnosed as migraine, tension headache, neuritis, neuralgia, or stress, or not diagnosed at all. When the standard treatments for these types of disorders proved unsuccessful, the patients were listed as hypochondriacs or neurotics.

Very often the “great impostor” TMJ causes ear pain under the guise of an ear infection. These patients often have no evidence of primary ear pathology, but they may experience pain or buzzing in the ears that persists even after successful treatment of the ear infection. Historically, TMJ dysfunction has been closely associated with otolaryngology. One of the earliest credible studies describing TMJ dysfunction was published in 1934 by otolaryngologist James B. Costen. He established TMJ dysfunction as a differential diagnosis to be considered in the presence of otalgia (pain in the ears). Today, some medical practitioners in the healthcare community recognize that these often unexplained, undiagnosed, and therefore untreated symptoms are related to a group of problems called temporomandibular disorders.

It is important to know that the masticatory muscles are located next to some muscles that are inserted into the middle ear and therefore can affect hearing. This may contribute to or exacerbate pre-existing tinnitus. Secondly, there may be a direct connection between the ligaments that attach to the jaw and one of the auditory bones, which is located in the middle ear. Finally, the nerve supply from the TMJ has been shown to be associated with parts of the brain that are associated with both hearing and interpreting sound.

Many patients with temporomandibular disorder and associated tinnitus find that treatment for TMJ dysfunction improves or eliminates their tinnitus in combination with other symptoms of the dysfunction.

If you experience tinnitus, you may have other symptoms:

• neck, shoulder, lower back pain
• dizziness
• ear pain
• ear congestion
• hearing loss
• sinus pain
• sore throat
• migraines and headaches
• pain in the face and eyes

If your TMJ is not properly positioned, the trigeminal nerve can cause tinnitus and buzzing, as well as ear pain. It may not actually be an ear infection, but simply an irritation caused by your trigeminal nerve activity.

One of these muscles goes to the tympanic membrane and is called the tympanic tensor. It can create a noise tone by stretching the eardrum. Other muscles are the muscles of the jaw (masticatory and medial pterygoid muscles) they share the same trigeminal nerve connections.

In addition, people with tinnitus often have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Constant tinnitus can also lead to sleep disturbances that only worsen mental stress and increase anxiety.

If you have any combination of the above symptoms, please see a TMJ specialist (gnatologist, neuromuscular dentist, orthodontist or orthocraniodontist) and tell us about your ear problem. Take it seriously and remember that one of the most annoying consequences of TMJ dysfunction is hearing loss.

Source: infovnchs.ru