What causes ear and jaw pain?

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Ear and jaw pain can be caused by referred pain, as well as certain medical conditions.

If you are experiencing ear and jaw pain, you will know that the issues can be very uncomfortable. In many cases, pain affects the ear and jaw at the same time because they are located so close together. Ear and jaw pain can be caused by a number of factors, including referred pain from elsewhere in the body; or a medical condition in the ear or jaw. Read on to find out what could be causing your discomfort and how it can be resolved…

TMJ can affect the ear and jaw

In many cases, pain in the ear and jaw is related to the temporomandibular jaw (TMJ). The TMJ includes the jaw, as well as the nearby muscles. The TMJ is located next to the temporal bone, which includes the inner ear. Because of their proximity to each other, the ear and jaw may both be impacted by dysfunction of the TMJ. Facial and ear pain are two very common symptoms of TMJ.

Jaw and ear pain can trigger a migraine

There is a strong connection between jaw and ear pain and migraines. When pain occurs in the jaw and ears close to the TMJ, it can trigger a migraine. Migraines are often characterised by pain in one or both sides of the head, as well as visual disturbances, nausea and sensitivity to sound, smell and light.

Teeth grinding can cause pain

If you have a habit of clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth at night, you run the risk of developing a TMJ disorder. This, in turn, can lead to symptoms such as jaw and ear pain. Grinding your teeth can also wear away at your teeth over time and may even affect the alignment of your teeth. The habit can also cause deterioration of the TMJ and strain your facial muscles. If you grind your teeth, it is important that you speak to your dentist about ways in which the issue can be addressed. Your dentist will recommend a solution designed to alleviate any painful symptoms and prevent further damage to your teeth and TMJ.

Untreated dental issues can lead to ear and jaw pain

There are a number of oral health issues that can lead to ear and jaw pain. Dental problems such as cavities, gum disease and abscessed teeth can all cause considerable damage to the teeth and gums and can cause pain to spread beyond the mouth. For this reason, it is important that you have any issues identified and treated as soon as possible and that you see your dentist for regular check-ups.

Sinus infection can be painful

If you are suffering from a sinus infection, it is likely that you will experience ear and jaw pain. A sinus infection can occur when the nasal passages become inflamed and irritated as a result of a cold or allergies or as the result of a virus. If you have sinusitis, it is advisable that you see your doctor. They will recommend a treatment for you, which will resolve the infection and alleviate any uncomfortable symptoms.

How can we help?

At TMJ Centre Melbourne, we take a holistic approach when it comes to the treatment of TMJ disorders and related pain. Our chiropractor and dentist team works together to provide long-term, sustainable solutions. The treatment that suits you best will depend on your particular symptoms, as well as the cause of your pain. A combination of neuromuscular orthotics, low level laser therapy, trigger point therapy, prolotherapy and breathing dysfunction treatment may be recommended for you.

To find out more about your treatment options at our practice, please have a look here.

To arrange a consultation, please get in touch with us here or give us a call on 03 9417 4038. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice in Melbourne.