Ear and jaw pain tend to be commonly associated. It may be because these two structures are close neighbors. The temporomandibular joint, or jaw joint, is positioned just in front of the ear. In fact, the front wall of the ear serves as the back wall of the TMJ. TMJ pain affects the whole area around the joint, including the ear. The small muscles inside the middle ear often react and tighten in response to jaw joint pain. It's as though the inner ear muscles are tightening to prepare for a hit.

           Referred pain also causes both ear and jaw pain relationships. Several jaw muscles refer pain into the ear when these muscles are overworked and become painful. The muscles are the origin of the pain, but the pain is felt inside the ear. Other areas of the body commonly refer pain, such as when the heart refers pain to the left arm or lower jaw. In this case, the jaw pain felt in the jaw is really from a heart attack.

          Since ear and jaw pain often go hand in hand, many patients first see an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist, but the cause if commonly from TMJ jaw pain, not the ear. A knowledgeable physician will refer the patient to a dentist trained in the area of TMJ. A major problem, however, is that TMJ problems are usually not covered by medical insurance and most patients have to pay for their own care. This can be a major barrier.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky is experienced in this area of Dentistry and teaches other dentists on the subject. Our TMJ dentist would be happy to evaluate your ear and jaw pain and if possible, after determing the cause of jaw pain, provide treatment. If you wish to schedule a consultation, call 404-874-7428.