How does a TMJ problem create ear symptoms?
TMJ problems can create ear symptoms because the temporomandibular joint is located very close to the ears. When there’s inflammation or tension in the jaw joint, it can affect the surrounding muscles and nerves, leading to pain or pressure that feels like it's coming from the ear. This is why people with TMJ disorders often experience earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness in the ears, even though there may be nothing wrong with the ear itself.
In some cases, the misalignment of the jaw can also affect the eustachian tube, which helps regulate pressure in the ear. When the eustachian tube is affected, it can cause a feeling of pressure or even slight hearing changes. TMJ-related ear symptoms can often be mistaken for an ear infection, but treating the jaw issue usually helps relieve the ear problems.
In some cases, the misalignment of the jaw can also affect the eustachian tube, which helps regulate pressure in the ear. When the eustachian tube is affected, it can cause a feeling of pressure or even slight hearing changes. TMJ-related ear symptoms can often be mistaken for an ear infection, but treating the jaw issue usually helps relieve the ear problems.