November 17, 2017

Ear Pain Due to TMJ Video



Not infrequently, a patient presents to the ENT clinic with complaints of ear pain convinced there must be an ear infection. However, on exam, the ear itself appears completely normal!

What could be going on?

Often, the ear pain is actually not because of an ear problem, but due to a disorder of the temporo-mandibular joint otherwise known as TMJ. The pain gets referred to the ear.

This video demonstrates how the TMJ can cause ear pain.

Treatment typically entails soft diet, ibuprofen, and ice packs, but if the ear pain due to TMJ does not resolve, an appointment to see a dentist or oral surgeon is recommended.

And if you are lucky, there are dentists who specialize in TMJ disorders. In my area, these are the TMJ specialists I typically recommend:

Dr. Michael Singer in Bethesda, MD
Dr. Steven Guttenberg in Washington, DC


Fauquier blog
Fauquier ENT

Dr. Christopher Chang is a private practice otolaryngology, head & neck surgeon specializing in the treatment of problems related to the ear, nose, and throat. Located in Warrenton, VA about 45 minutes west of Washington DC, he also provides inhalant allergy testing/treatment, hearing tests, and dispenses hearing aids.


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