Suffering from an earache can be incredibly painful and disruptive to your day-to-day life. But did you know that the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) can sometimes be related to ear pain? TMJD is a condition that affects the jaw joints and muscles and can cause a range of symptoms, including ear pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing ear pain and think that it may be related to TMJ disorder, you should consult Dr. Kelly Mingus in Bend, who can help you get the relief you need.
Dr. Mingus specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJD. He is dedicated to helping his patients get relief from the pain and discomfort associated with TMJD symptoms. Dr. Mingus understands that ear pain can be very concerning and affect your overall health, so he takes great care in providing his patients with the prompt and effective treatment they need. Whether you have experienced ear pain for a short period or have been dealing with it for weeks, Dr. Mingus will work with you to determine the cause of your symptoms and help you find the right treatment.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joints, which link the skull and lower jaw. These joints are some of the most complex in the human body and are involved in a wide range of functions, from talking and eating to yawning and even sleeping. When these joints become inflamed or irritated, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, a clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves, and even ear pain.
TMJD is generally thought to be caused by misalignment of the jaw joints, which can occur because of a variety of factors, including stress and tension, bad posture, and even poor dental hygiene. In some cases, it can also result from an injury or infection. Many people experience TMJD-related symptoms but do not realize that their jaw joints are the cause. This can make it difficult to identify the problem and find the right treatment.
How Is TMJ Disorder Related to Ear Pain?
The temporomandibular joints are located near the ear, so when they become inflamed or irritated, ear pain can occur. TMJD-related ear pain can feel like a dull ache, a sharp pain, or a feeling of fullness or pressure. It can also cause an increased sensitivity to sound or even difficulty hearing. In some cases, people may also experience tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. These symptoms can be very disruptive and make it difficult to focus on tasks or get a good night’s sleep.
TMJD-related ear pain can also feel like other types of ear pain, such as ear infections or damage to the eardrum. Thus, it is important to consult a dentist like Dr. Mingus who can help to identify the cause of your symptoms and provide the appropriate treatment.
How Can Dr. Mingus Help?
Dr. Mingus is an experienced dentist in Bend who is dedicated to helping his patients get relief from TMJD-related symptoms. In addition to a comprehensive examination of your jaw, Dr. Mingus will take the time to listen to your symptoms and concerns. This will allow him to provide the most effective treatment to help you get relief from ear pain.
One of the most common treatments for TMJ disorder-related ear pain is a hot or cold compress to reduce inflammation and help relieve pain. Dr. Mingus may also recommend medications to help fight infection or reduce inflammation. In some cases, he may also recommend a non-invasive oral appliance that can help to re-align the jaw and reduce muscle tension. For more serious cases, Dr. Mingus may recommend oral surgery to help correct any misalignments in the jaw.
No matter what treatment option is best for you, Dr. Mingus will work with you to provide treatment that will bring you relief as quickly and safely as possible. If you are suffering from TMJD-related ear pain and are located in the Bend area, consult Dr. Mingus today and start the path to relief.
