Many people know that the temporomandibular joint (also known as TMJ) is a joint that connects the mandible to the skull. But did you know that, in some cases, TMJ can actually cause ear discomfort?
If you or someone you know is experiencing chronic ear pain, it could be linked to TMJ. To help you understand how TMJ can cause ear discomfort, we spoke to Bend’s leading specialist – Dr. Avery Fields, DDS.
Understanding the Link Between TMJ and Ear Discomfort
According to Dr. Fields, TMJ can impact the structures around and inside the ear. “When the muscles around the jaw become inflamed because of TMJ, they can push up against the structures in the ear, like the ear canal and the eardrum,” Dr. Fields said. “This can lead to pain and discomfort in the ear.”
In some cases, TMJ can also affect the temporomandibular nerve, which may cause issues with the ear as well. “When the temporomandibular nerve becomes irritated or inflamed because of TMJ, it can lead to tingling, numbness, and pain in the ear area as well.” Dr. Fields continued.
The Main Symptoms of TMJ-Related Ear Discomfort
Now that we understand what can cause TMJ-related ear discomfort, let’s take a look at the main symptoms of this issue. According to Dr. Fields, the most common symptoms of TMJ-related ear discomfort include:
- Pain or discomfort in the ear
- Popping, clicking, or banging sounds in the ear
- Ear fullness or pressure
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- Dizziness or balance problems
Dr. Fields also pointed out that, in some cases, TMJ-related ear discomfort may be accompanied by jaw pain or stiffness, as well as headaches and neck pain.
How to Identify and Treat TMJ-Related Ear Discomfort
If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of TMJ-related ear discomfort, it’s important to seek out a medical professional such as Dr. Fields for an accurate diagnosis. “An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist and a dentist can both diagnose TMJ-related ear discomfort,” Dr. Fields said.
Once an accurate diagnosis has been made, there are several treatment options that can help to relieve TMJ-related ear discomfort. “In some cases, non-surgical treatments, like physical therapy, stretching exercises, and over-the-counter pain medication, can be effective in relieving TMJ-related ear discomfort,” Dr. Fields said.
In more severe cases, injections, orthotic devices, and even surgery may be necessary. Dr. Fields also recommended looking into natural therapies, like acupuncture, to ease TMJ-related ear discomfort.
Preventing TMJ-Related Ear Discomfort
If you’ve been diagnosed with TMJ or you’re at risk of developing this condition, there are steps you can take to prevent TMJ-related ear discomfort according to Dr. Fields.
- Practice good posture when sitting, standing, and sleeping to prevent jaw and neck issues that can lead to TMJ-related ear discomfort.
- Avoid chewing hard or tough foods and don’t clench or grind the teeth.
- Use relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, to relieve stress and reduce tension in the jaw and neck muscles.
- Consider getting regular massages or using moist heat packs to relieve tension and discomfort in the jaw and neck area.
- See a medical professional like Dr. Fields to diagnose and treat any underlying complications that may be causing TMJ-related ear discomfort.
Conclusion
It’s important to understand that TMJ can cause ear discomfort in some cases. If you or someone you know is experiencing chronic ear pain or other symptoms of TMJ-related ear discomfort, it’s important to see a medical professional like Bend’s leading specialist – Dr. Avery Fields, DDS – for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatments.
And while it may be impossible to completely prevent TMJ-related ear discomfort, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing this issue. Follow the prevention tips shared by Dr. Fields to help keep TMJ-related ear discomfort at bay.
