Can TMJ cause crackling sounds in your ears. How to get rid of crunching sounds in your ear. What are the best treatments for TMJ fullness in the ears. Is TMJ related to ear pressure and hearing changes.

Understanding TMJ and Its Impact on Ear Health

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common condition that can affect not only the jaw but also the ears. Many people experience uncomfortable symptoms like ear fullness, crackling sounds, and even changes in hearing due to TMJ issues. This article explores the connection between TMJ and ear problems, providing insights into effective treatments and management strategies.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull, becomes misaligned or damaged. This misalignment can lead to various symptoms, including pain in the jaw, face, and ears. One of the most common manifestations of TMJ disorder is crepitus, a term used to describe the crackling or popping sounds in the ears.

The Link Between TMJ and Ear Symptoms

The close proximity of the temporomandibular joint to the ear structures explains why TMJ disorders can cause ear-related symptoms. When the TMJ is dysfunctional, it can affect the surrounding muscles and tissues, leading to various ear problems.

Common Ear Symptoms Associated with TMJ

• Crackling or popping sounds
• Ear fullness or pressure
• Muffled hearing
• Ear pain
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Identifying the Causes of TMJ-Related Ear Problems

Understanding the root causes of TMJ-related ear issues is crucial for effective treatment. Several factors can contribute to these symptoms:

Muscle Tension and Spasms

Tension in the jaw muscles can trigger spasms in the stapedius muscle, located in the inner ear. This can cause the eardrum to tense, resulting in a feeling of fullness or reduced hearing ability. Chronic teeth clenching or grinding (bruxism) often exacerbates these muscle tensions.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

TMJ disorders can affect the function of the Eustachian tube, which regulates pressure in the middle ear. When the tube narrows or closes due to muscle spasms, it can lead to changes in ear pressure and hearing.

Joint Misalignment

Misalignment of the temporomandibular joint can cause bone-on-bone friction or cartilage damage, resulting in the characteristic crackling or popping sounds associated with TMJ disorders.

Diagnosing TMJ-Related Ear Symptoms

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of TMJ-related ear problems. Healthcare professionals, particularly dentists specializing in TMJ disorders, use various methods to assess the condition:

• Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding structures
• Medical history review
• Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs)
• Evaluation of bite and jaw alignment

In cases where ear symptoms are the primary complaint, it’s crucial to rule out other potential causes and confirm the TMJ connection.

Effective Treatments for TMJ Fullness in the Ears

Addressing TMJ-related ear symptoms often requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some effective treatment options:

Oral Appliances and Splints

Custom-fitted oral appliances, such as night guards or splints, can help alleviate TMJ symptoms by repositioning the jaw and reducing pressure on the joint. These devices are particularly useful for individuals who experience teeth grinding or clenching during sleep.

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises can improve TMJ health and reduce ear-related symptoms. A physical therapist or TMJ specialist can provide guidance on proper techniques and create a personalized exercise plan.

Orthotic Appliances

Orthotic appliances designed to decompress the temporomandibular joint can be highly effective in restoring ear function and improving hearing. These devices work by using orthopedic principles to optimize jaw position and function.

TENS Therapy

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate muscles and nerves. In TMJ treatment, TENS can help reset muscle memory and find the optimal resting position for the jaw, potentially alleviating ear fullness and other symptoms.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care Strategies

In addition to professional treatments, certain lifestyle changes and self-care practices can help manage TMJ-related ear symptoms:

• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, deep breathing exercises)
• Avoiding hard or chewy foods that strain the jaw
• Practicing good posture to reduce tension in the neck and jaw
• Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area
• Gentle jaw exercises and stretches as recommended by a healthcare professional

When to Seek Professional Help

While some TMJ-related ear symptoms may improve with self-care measures, it’s important to know when to consult a healthcare professional. Consider seeking help if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen despite home remedies
• You experience severe pain or difficulty opening your mouth
• Ear fullness is accompanied by significant hearing changes
• You notice persistent clicking or popping sounds in your jaw

Specialized TMJ clinics, such as Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, offer comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatment plans for individuals experiencing TMJ-related ear problems.

Advanced Treatment Options for Persistent TMJ Ear Symptoms

For cases where conservative treatments prove insufficient, more advanced options may be considered:

Botox Injections

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can help relax overactive jaw muscles, potentially reducing ear fullness and other TMJ-related symptoms. This treatment is typically considered when other methods have not provided adequate relief.

Arthrocentesis

This minimally invasive procedure involves flushing the joint space with a sterile solution to remove debris and inflammatory byproducts. Arthrocentesis can help improve joint mobility and reduce pain and pressure that may be contributing to ear symptoms.

Surgical Interventions

In rare cases where conservative treatments and minimally invasive procedures are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. These can include arthroscopy, open joint surgery, or joint replacement, depending on the severity and nature of the TMJ disorder.

The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach

Effective management of TMJ-related ear symptoms often requires a collaborative effort between different healthcare professionals. A multidisciplinary team may include:

• TMJ specialists or dentists with expertise in TMJ disorders
• Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors)
• Physical therapists
• Pain management specialists
• Neurologists

This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the condition are addressed, leading to more effective and lasting relief from TMJ-related ear symptoms.

Preventing TMJ-Related Ear Problems

While not all cases of TMJ disorder can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of developing TMJ-related ear symptoms:

Maintain Good Posture

Proper posture, especially when working at a desk or using electronic devices, can help reduce strain on the jaw and surrounding muscles. Consider using ergonomic furniture and taking regular breaks to stretch and move around.

Manage Stress

Stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding and jaw clenching, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.

Practice Good Sleep Hygiene

Ensuring proper sleep posture and using a supportive pillow can help reduce nighttime teeth grinding and jaw tension. If you suspect you grind your teeth during sleep, consult a dentist about getting a custom night guard.

Be Mindful of Jaw Habits

Avoid habits that put unnecessary stress on the jaw, such as chewing gum excessively, biting nails, or clenching your teeth during the day. Being aware of these habits is the first step toward breaking them.

The Role of Diet in TMJ Management

Diet can play a significant role in managing TMJ disorders and related ear symptoms. Consider the following dietary recommendations:

Soft Foods

During flare-ups, opt for softer foods that require less chewing. This can help reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint and allow it to heal.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Incorporate foods with anti-inflammatory properties into your diet, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries. These may help reduce inflammation in the TMJ and surrounding tissues.

Adequate Hydration

Staying well-hydrated can help maintain the health of your joints, including the TMJ. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Some individuals find that certain foods exacerbate their TMJ symptoms. Common culprits include very chewy foods, hard candies, and excessive caffeine. Keep a food diary to identify any potential triggers.

The Future of TMJ Treatment and Research

As our understanding of TMJ disorders continues to evolve, new treatment modalities and research avenues are emerging:

Regenerative Medicine

Stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments show promise in regenerating damaged joint tissues and reducing inflammation in TMJ disorders.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Improved imaging technologies, such as high-resolution MRI and 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), are enhancing our ability to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders with greater precision.

Personalized Treatment Approaches

As we learn more about the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to TMJ disorders, treatments may become more tailored to individual patients, leading to better outcomes.

Wearable Technology

The development of smart devices that can monitor jaw movement and muscle activity throughout the day may provide valuable data for diagnosis and treatment planning.

In conclusion, TMJ-related ear fullness and other symptoms can significantly impact quality of life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, relief is possible. By understanding the connection between TMJ disorders and ear health, individuals can work with healthcare professionals to develop effective management strategies. Whether through conservative treatments, lifestyle modifications, or advanced interventions, there are numerous options available to address TMJ-related ear problems and improve overall well-being.

How Do You Treat TMJ Fullness in the Ears?

Home » How Do You Treat TMJ Fullness in the Ears?

You cannot copy content of this website, your IP is being recorded

Do you have a crackling sound in your ear due to TMJ?! Call our dedicated team today at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders or visit us online to book an appointment. We have convenient locations across the U.S. in Bloomington IL, Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX and Wausau WI.

Table of Contents:

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears?
How do I get rid of the crunching sound in my ear?
How do you treat TMJ fullness in the ears?

Crepitus is a sound or vibration that occurs when tissues in the body, such as cartilage in the joints, are damaged and rub against one another. One of the most common causes of crepitus is dysfunction of the TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ disorder occurs when the various parts in the temporomandibular joint become misaligned; this can cause the bone to rub on bone or cartilage. This rubbing can damage cartilage, causing it to develop into crepitus.

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears?

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause a crackling sound to occur in the ears; this is known as crepitus. In addition to a crackling or popping sound, crepitus also refers to a grating sensation produced by the friction of bone rubbing against cartilage. Crackling in the ears does not only occur from TMJ disorder, it can also be the result of ear wax that has dried on the eardrum. When the dried wax expands, it cracks, which is audible in the ear canal as a crackling, crunching or popping sound.

How do I get rid of the crunching sound in my ear?

When a crunching or crackling sound is audible in the ears, it is likely caused by dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. In order to address this concern, the underlying cause of the crunching sound must first be taken care of. The best way to find the most effective treatment is by visiting a dentist who specializes in treating temporomandibular joint disorders. The dentist may utilize any one of several different modalities, including oral splints and mouth guards, or they may even prescribe physical therapy to help stretch the jaw muscles and relieve tension on the temporomandibular joint. Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises can improve TMJ health, reducing symptoms.

How do you treat TMJ fullness in the ears?

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is positioned just in front of the ear; dysfunction with this joint can therefore easily impact how the ears feel. Several TMJ-related causes can cause stuffiness of the ear; tension in some of the jaw muscles can actually trigger tension in the stapedius muscle, the muscle of the inner ear. When this occurs, the eardrum tenses and can give a sense of stuffiness or diminished hearing. Chronic clenching or grinding of the teeth can trigger these types of spasms; the more frequently teeth clenching or grinding occurs, the more severe the ear symptoms will be. Other jaw muscles can also spasm from chronic clenching, causing the Eustachian tube to narrow or close. This affects inner ear pressure and can muffle hearing, similar to how ears pop when descending in an airplane.

In hard-to-diagnose cases that involve muffled hearing, ear pain, hearing changes or itching deep in the ear, it is likely that a chronic TMJ condition exists. In the treatment of TMJ disorder, using orthotic appliances to decompress the joint can restore ear function and improve hearing. Orthotic appliances are different from other techniques such as bite adjustment and bite equilibration as they use orthopedic medicine to improve jaw function.

In some cases, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) may be used; this technique confuses the muscle memory to find the optimal resting position of the jaw. This can effectively ameliorate ear fullness when caused by the temporomandibular joint disorder.

If you are experiencing fullness in your ears, trust the team at Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders to provide you with relief.

Additional Services You May Need

▸ KoalaKIDZzz®
▸ Sleep Apnea
▸ Snoring
▸ TMJ Disorder
▸ Fatigue
▸ Sleep Disorders
▸ Weight Loss
▸ CPAP Alternative
▸ Oral Appliances

El Paso

• 6901 Helen of Troy, Ste D-2 El Paso, TX 79911
• View Details

Kansas City

• 2008 Swift Ave, Kansas City, MO 64116
• View Details

Bloomington

• 309 E. Empire St. Ste 500, Bloomington, IL 61704
• View Details

Peoria

• 11825 N. State Rt 40, Ste 100, Dunlap, IL 61525
• View Details

Mishawaka

• 230 E. Day Rd., Suite 150, Mishawaka, IN 46545
• View Details

Wausau

• 413 North 17th Avenue Ste. #100, Wausau, WI. 54401
• View Details

Directions To Nearest Koala Location

*In case of a life threatening emergency, immediately call 911.
**For any medical procedures, patients may respond to treatment differently, each patients results may vary.
***Information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this site is for general information purposes only.
****By using this website and sending us your information, you are giving us permission to contact you by electronic and non-electronic means. We also track the conversions and collect user data to improve marketing.
*****If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact us.

Can TMJ Cause My Jaw or Ears to Pop?

Home Dental Treatments TMJ Dentistry Can TMJ Cause My Jaw or Ears to Pop?

Temporomandibular joint disorders, often referred to simply as TMJ, can cause a range of problems with the jaw, face, and even the ears.

The temporomandibular joints exist on either side of the head close to the ears and help facilitate jaw movement. It is because of the temporomandibular joint that we can speak, chew, yawn, and smile.

When there is a problem with one or more temporomandibular joints, it can cause issues with the jaw and ears. But can TMJ cause your jaw or ears to pop? Here’s what you need to know.

TMJ Can Cause Unusual Jaw Popping or Clicking Sounds

People with TMJ disorders frequently report that their jaw makes popping or clicking noises when in motion. Any movement—from speaking to chewing to yawning—may cause these unusual sounds in the jaw. Some people hear a popping noise, but others may hear a clicking or even a grating sound when moving their mouth.

If you have a TMJ disorder, these sounds may be accompanied by pain or discomfort, but this won’t be true in every case [1].

Ear Problems and TMJ

Temporomandibular joint issues can cause your ears to feel as though they are popping, but they can also cause other issues with the ears, including ringing in the ears, aching ears, or hearing loss [2].

If you experience any type of ear discomfort, it may not be related to an ear infection. Since the temporomandibular joint is located so close to the ears, any inflammation or discomfort related to these joints has the potential to cause ear symptoms.

Ear problems can coincide with other symptoms of TMJ, including popping and clicking noises, jaw or facial discomfort, and trouble opening the mouth all the way. However, it’s also possible for these symptoms to exist separately, so don’t immediately discount a TMJ disorder, even if you are only having ear symptoms.

Can TMJ-Related Popping Noises Be Treated?

Whether you’re experiencing jaw or ear popping related to TMJ, the good news is that, in many cases, it can be treated. TMJ disorders may have an underlying cause that you can address with your dentist to help your symptoms go away.

For example, overuse of the jaw joint or even teeth that don’t fit together properly can trigger TMJ symptoms. So reducing activities that aggravate the jaw joint, such as chewing gum, or getting orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth can help resolve the problem.

Other people may benefit from physical therapy, medication, or jaw exercises [3]. Your dentist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that makes the most sense based on your symptoms and potential underlying causes of the disorder.

Do You Have Symptoms of TMJ?

If you have symptoms of TMJ, including jaw or ear popping, ask your dentist during your next checkup if you could be suffering from a TMJ disorder and if so, what treatment or management options may be available.

Sources:
1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319888
2. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd#symptoms
3. https://tmj.org/living-with-tmj/treatments/

Summary

Recent Posts

Why clicks in the ear – causes, diagnosis and treatment

Contents

• When are clicks the norm?
• Pathological causes of clicks
• Symptoms of pathological conditions
• Diagnosis and treatment

Episodic clicks and crackles in the ear are probably familiar to everyone. Few people attach importance to these sounds, taking them for a physiological norm or an accident. But what if the clicks in the ear sound constantly? Why do they appear? Do I need to see a doctor for help with ringing in my ears?

Contents

When are clicks normal?

Clicks and crackles are heard not by themselves. These sounds are formed during the contraction of the muscles that serve the auditory ossicles. With a spasm of these muscles, air is pushed out of the sections of the auditory organ – that’s why it clicks in the ear.

Sometimes clicking in the ears appears with a spasm of another group of muscles – during swallowing, the muscles of the pharynx contract. Inside the ENT system, the push of air “walks” and is given in the auditory organ. With frequent manifestations of this symptom, which cause significant discomfort to the patient, medications can be prescribed that relax the muscles of the pharynx.

In some cases, the cause of clicks is a feature of the structure of the lower jaw, inside which the articular disc is located. It is mobile and during its movement in a tight knot is able to make a characteristic sound.

These causes of clicks in the auditory organ are considered harmless and physiological. If crackling appears rarely and is not accompanied by painful sensations, there is nothing to worry about.

Pathological causes of clicks

Experts divide the pathological causes of crackles and clicks in the auditory organs into several groups.

“Nervous tic”

Unexplained crackling, which does not accompany any disease, occurs in the ears from time to time. Experts attribute its origin to muscle spasms, which occasionally appear in the muscles that surround and serve the ENT system. This is a kind of “nervous tick” of the body, uncontrolled episodic contractions, which usually do not pose a danger to humans.

See also: Why does the auricle hurt?

If this kind of cracking occurs rarely, then there is nothing to worry about. If it repeats often and gives you tangible discomfort, torments you, start bypassing specialists to try to identify the root cause of the “nervous tic” of the muscles.

Colds

Quite often, crackling in the ears accompanies the course of colds: SARS, pharyngitis. Puffiness of the ENT organs, the accumulation of large volumes of mucus in the nasopharynx can cause characteristic noises in the auditory organs: it either clicks in them, or something seems to overflow, or buzz.

As soon as you are cured, the swelling of the ENT organs will subside, and the problem with crackling in the ears will go away.

Inflammatory processes

When it clicks in the ear, and this phenomenon is accompanied by pain, such a symptom may signal the occurrence of otitis media. An acute inflammatory process requires a mandatory visit to the ENT and adequate complex treatment.

Destruction of cartilage

Ringing in the ears is a frequent complaint of elderly patients suffering from arthritis and arthrosis. These diseases are characterized by the destruction of cartilaginous tissue, in which the mouth opens with difficulty, the joints crunch, and during the movement of the jaws, characteristic sounds occur behind the ears: crackling and creaking. Chewing begins to become painful, the tissues over the joint affected by arthritis or arthrosis become inflamed, the temperature rises due to intoxication and the state of health worsens significantly.

Wax plug

Blocked ear canal due to wax plug also often causes clicking in the right or left ear, especially during jaw movements (when chewing, swallowing, yawning and talking).

Dislocation of the jaw

During such an injury, the ligaments of the jaw are greatly stretched, and the capsules of the damaged joints become inflamed. Such a pathology retains the displacement of the jaw until it is repositioned. This position of the joints and muscles causes a crackling sound in the jaw that radiates to the ear.

Cervical osteochondrosis

Sharp crackling in the ear may occur due to cervical osteochondrosis. In addition to this symptom, dizziness, nausea, sleep problems and a veil before the eyes will indicate squeezing of the discs and blood vessels. Clicking in the ear when walking and moving the neck will increase.

See also: Treatment of pain in the ears with a cold

Symptoms of pathological conditions

Periodic manifestation of characteristic clicks, as a rule, does not serve as a reason for contacting specialists. It is necessary to look for the cause of the crackling in the ears if it is permanent or accompanied by pain.

Obvious discomfort, pain, dizziness and disorientation, which are accompanied by crackling in the ears, is a reason to immediately consult with specialists and identify the root cause of this condition.

Before visiting a doctor, listen to the nature of the clicks, listen to their tone and think about what circumstances provoke their occurrence and how many times they are felt in a certain period of time. Your observations will speed up the diagnosis, so that specialists will quickly determine what to do to eliminate the pathological condition.

Diagnosis and treatment

1. Since the clicks and pops that disturb you are localized in the ear, you should first visit Laura. The doctor will examine you, and if he does not find diseases of his “sphere” (inflammation of the ear and nasopharynx), he will direct you further – to the phoniator.