TMJ

Did you know that TMJ dysfunction can cause ear discomfort?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint directly in front of the ear. Within the TMJ, there are moving parts that allow the upper jaw to close on the lower jaw. This joint is a typical sliding “ball and socket” that has a disc sandwiched between it. The TMJ is used throughout the day to move the jaw, especially in biting and chewing, talking, and yawning. It is one of the most frequently used joints of the body. If the joint or its attached muscles are damaged or inflamed, it can cause pain, limitation of jaw movement, muscle tenderness and joint clicking. There are many symptoms that can occur with this condition, and many individuals with TMJ problems often have ear pain or fullness in the ear.
Typically in these patients, examination of the ear usually shows normal ear canals and eardrums. Pressing a finger directly over the joint may recreate the pain and tenderness associated with this disorder.
TMJ dysfunction is often seen in younger and middle-aged women, however it can occur in all ages and in men as well. Sometimes it is seen in patients that have had injury to their jaw joint at some point of their life.

Some conditions and behaviors that may contribute to TMJ dysfunction are listed:

1. Teeth grinding and teeth clenching increase the wear on the cartilage lining of the TMJ. Those who grind or clench their teeth may be unaware of this behavior unless they are told by someone observing this pattern while sleeping or by a dental professional noticing telltale signs of wear and tear on the teeth. Many patients awaken in the morning with jaw or ear pain.

2. Excessive gum chewing or fingernail biting

3. Dental problems and misalignment of the teeth. Patients may complain that it is difficult to find a comfortable bite or that the way their teeth fit together has changed. Chewing on only one side of the jaw can lead to or be a result of TMJ problems.

4. Trauma to the jaw: Previous fractures in the jaw or facial bones can lead to TMJ disorders.

5. Stress frequently leads to unreleased nervous energy. It is very common for people under stress to release this nervous energy by either consciously or unconsciously grinding and clenching their teeth.

6. Occupational tasks such as holding the telephone between the head and shoulder may contribute to TMJ disorders.

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