TMJ Ear Pain Treatment Q&A
It is common to have an earache if one is suffering from TMJ. Since TMJ causes tension in the jaw joint, there is a possibility that you have ear pain along with headaches, and clicking or popping noises. To get rid of TMJ earache, come to Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations across the U.S. in Bloomington IL, Peoria/Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI.


Table of Contents:
Why does TMJ ear pain occur?
How do you get rid of ear pain from TMJ?
How long does it take for TMJ ear pain to go away?
How do you sleep with TMJ ear pain?
If you have issues with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), you may experience referred pain in your ears. This occurs because the TMJ is very proximal to the auditory canal, meaning that pain and inflammation can easily spread. Along with these symptoms, you may experience a ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus.TMJ ear pain can be dull or sharp, and it may occur intermittently or affect you chronically. It’s common for headaches to accompany this sensation as well.
Overall, the TMJ is an intricate and interconnected joint, so when problems arise, symptoms can affect various areas of the face. If you notice issues with your TMJ, such as tension headaches, a clicking or popping noise when opening or closing the mouth or referred pain in your ears, you should see a professional for a diagnosis and comprehensive care.
To effectively and quickly get rid of TMJ ear pain, you should book an appointment with a TMJ expert. By working with an expert, you can receive a diagnosis and a treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort as quickly as possible. Some of the treatments commonly recommended to get rid of TMJ ear pain include:
– Heat or cold therapy – Heat therapy, such as warm compresses or heating pads, can be used to relax the muscles and improve circulation in the affected area. Alternatively, ice packs or cold compresses can help numb the area and reduce swelling.
– Medications – Pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with TMJ ear pain.
– Stress management and relaxation techniques – If your TMJ pain is caused by clenching your jaw from stress or muscle tension, you can use stress management and relaxation methods to address your symptoms. These include deep breathing and meditation.
– Physical therapy – A provider can outline helpful exercises to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and strengthen the surrounding muscles. In addition, manual therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy may be recommended.
The length of time that TMJ ear pain will affect you depends on various factors, such as the severity of the issue, the underlying causes, and how quickly you start treatment. While mild cases of TMJ ear pain can often be resolved within a few days, more severe instances can take up to two weeks to fully clear up. The good news is that, in the majority of cases, this symptom of TMJ dysfunction can be addressed quite quickly through non-invasive approaches.
The most effective way to alleviate your TMJ ear pain is to schedule an appointment with a expert. Keep in mind that every individual is unique and responds to treatment differently. The expert will create a treatment plan to suit your needs and preferences, as well as provide prompt relief from your ear pain. To achieve improvements quickly, it’s important to follow the recommended treatment plan as well as incorporate the outlined self-care measures into your routine until the pain goes away.
When you’re experiencing TMJ ear pain, it can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep. This can create a vicious cycle of pain, stress, and sleeplessness. The best way to sleep if you are experiencing this type of pain is on your back with pillows supporting your neck. You should avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this position can increase your discomfort. If sleeping on your side, you should be careful not to place excessive pressure on the affected area.
If your TMJ ear pain is interrupting your sleep, you should see a healthcare professional for treatment as soon as possible. Doing so will help you avoid extra frustration, irritability, and discomfort. To be seen by a reputable expert, book a visit at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders today!

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