18555 N 79th Ave Suite A-103
Glendale, AZ 85308-8370
Call Now! (623) 738-2564

We have implemented new protocols for our patient's and staff's safety. Please see our updated covid protocols for when you visit us.

How Jaw Problems Often Lead to Ear Pain

Posted on 9/21/2021 by Dr. Michael Allard

Jaw problems like temporomandibular joint disorder can lead to ear pain. The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to the skull, and it acts as a sliding hinge that assists whenever you chew, swallow, and speak. The TMJ also connects the bone that forms the lower jawbone (mandible) and the side of the skull (temporal bone), both of which are close to the ear. This joint helps move your jaw forward, side-to-side, and backward. Any alterations to this movement can cause not only jaw pain but also ear pain.

How Jaw Problems Can Affect the Ear

People with TMJ disorder often experience an aching ear. With the temporomandibular joint located close to the auditory canal, the pain and inflammation in the joint can lead to ear pain. You will also experience a ringing sound known as tinnitus that accompanies the pain. If you come to our offices with these symptoms, we will examine your jaw and determine if the ear pain is caused by TMJ disorder.

The ear pain caused by TMJ disorder can be a sharp, searing pain, or it could be a dull, ongoing irritation. Some people might also experience minor spasms in areas of their face muscles. If you have this condition, you are more likely to experience ear pain when you yawn, swallow, chew, or talk. As much as the pain mostly affects tissues surrounding your ear, you might feel it along the side of your neck. If this condition is not treated, it will worsen, increasing the intensity of earaches. You will also notice a sharp increase in body temperature accompanied by toothaches and headaches.

Therefore, if you are experiencing any signs of ear pain or discomfort, schedule an appointment with us for checks and treatment. Feel free to visit our offices for more information on ear pain and TMJ.

Phone

(623) 738-2564

Hours

Mon - Tue: 8:00am–5:00pm
Wed - Thu: 7:00am–4:00pm
Friday: 7:00am–3:00pm

New Patient Forms

Request Appointment

Referring Doctors

Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 18555 N 79th Ave, Suite A-103, Glendale, AZ 85308-8370; (623) 738-2564; arrowheadoralsurgery.com; 10/9/2024; Page Keywords: Dental Implants Glendale AZ;