Chronic ear pain can be puzzling, especially when no sign of infection exists. Issues with the jaw, specifically the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), can be a hidden cause of ongoing ear discomfort. Understanding TMJ and its connection to ear pain is the first step toward relief.
What Is TMJ?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull, just in front of your ears. This joint allows you to open and close your mouth, chew and speak. It’s called temporomandibular joint disorder when problems develop in or around the TMJ.
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
- Arthritis in the joint
- Injury to the jaw
- Misalignment of the teeth or bite
- Stress-related muscle tension
Because the TMJ is located close to the ear canal, discomfort in this area can easily be mistaken for ear-related problems.
How TMJ Can Lead to Ear Pain
The proximity of the TMJ to the ear means that inflammation or strain in the jaw can radiate pain into the ear. This can lead to a sensation of pressure, aching or fullness that mimics an ear infection, even though the ear itself may be perfectly healthy.
Common TMJ-related ear symptoms include:
- Dull, aching ear pain on one or both sides
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
- Pain that worsens with chewing or yawning
- Stiffness or soreness in the jaw
- Headaches or facial pain
Other Causes of Chronic Ear Pain
While TMJ is a common but often overlooked cause of chronic ear pain, there are other potential reasons for ongoing discomfort. These include:
- Ear infections
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Sinus infections or allergies
- Nerve-related conditions
- Dental issues
Getting an accurate diagnosis is important because so many conditions can produce similar symptoms.
If you’ve been experiencing chronic ear pain without signs of infection, and especially if you also have jaw discomfort, TMJ could be the culprit. Treatment options may include custom mouth guards, physical therapy or medications.
To learn more about treating your chronic ear pain, contact Charleston ENT & Allergy for an appointment today.