Why is My Jaw and Ear Hurting

Why Is My Jaw and Ear Hurting? Understanding the Link Between TMJ Disorders and Pain

Many people experience the frustrating combination of jaw pain and ear pain, yet they are often surprised to learn that these symptoms are frequently connected. If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why is my jaw and ear hurting?” the cause may not lie in your ears or jaw alone, but rather in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—a complex hinge that connects your jaw to the base of your skull.

At his specialized practice in Manhattan, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, a trusted TMJ Specialist in New York, has helped countless patients identify and treat this often-overlooked source of discomfort. Through advanced diagnostic techniques and non-invasive therapies, Dr. Bakhtiari addresses the underlying causes of TMJ pain, restoring function and relieving symptoms for patients across New York City and beyond.

In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes of simultaneous jaw and ear pain, how the TMJ plays a central role, and what can be done to treat it effectively—especially when home remedies or general care have failed.

Understanding the TMJ: A Complex Connection

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most intricate and heavily used joints in the body. Located on either side of your head, just in front of the ears, the TMJ allows your jaw to open, close, and move side to side. It plays a critical role in essential functions such as speaking, chewing, and yawning.

Due to its proximity to the ear canal and shared nerve pathways, dysfunction in the TMJ can often present as ear pain or discomfort—despite there being no infection or issue in the ear itself.

In many cases, patients suffering from TMJ pain may first visit an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist or their primary care physician, only to be told that their ears are healthy. These patients often leave confused, still dealing with nagging discomfort. What they really need is a comprehensive evaluation by a TMJ specialist who can assess the joint and its role in their symptoms.

Common Causes of Jaw and Ear Pain

There are many reasons why someone may feel pain in both the jaw and the ear. While some causes are minor and temporary, others signal more serious underlying dysfunction.

1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD)

One of the most common—and often underdiagnosed—causes of jaw and ear pain is TMJ disorder. This condition encompasses a group of issues affecting the joint itself, the surrounding muscles, and associated nerves.

Symptoms of TMD often include:

• Pain or tenderness near the ears

• Jaw stiffness or limited movement

• Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth

• Headaches or facial pain

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear

Because the TMJ lies so close to the ear canal and shares several nerve branches (especially the auriculotemporal nerve), pain from the joint can easily radiate to the ear—even mimicking the symptoms of an ear infection.

2. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)

Grinding or clenching the teeth—especially during sleep—is a significant contributor to TMJ pain. The sustained pressure overworks the jaw muscles, compresses the joint, and can cause inflammation that radiates toward the ears.

People with bruxism often wake up with jaw tightness, headaches, or ear discomfort. Over time, this habit can damage the joint cartilage, leading to chronic TMJ disorders and persistent jaw-ear pain.

3. Ear Infections or Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Although ear pain can often be traced to TMJ issues, it’s important to rule out medical conditions of the ear itself, including:

• Otitis media (middle ear infection)

• Swimmer’s ear (external ear infection)

• Blockage or inflammation of the Eustachian tubes

These conditions typically present with additional symptoms like fever, drainage, hearing loss, or balance issues, and require evaluation by a physician or ENT.

4. Sinus Infections or Allergies

Sinus congestion and inflammation can also create referred pain in the jaw and ears. Swollen sinus passages near the upper jaw or cheekbones may press on nerves or alter your bite, triggering TMJ discomfort.

5. Dental Problems

Abscessed teeth, impacted molars, and gum infections can radiate pain into both the jaw and ear area. While these issues are often localized to one part of the mouth, they can contribute to muscle tension and joint imbalance, worsening TMJ symptoms.

How TMJ Disorders Mimic Ear Problems

The close relationship between the TMJ and the inner ear explains why many patients with TMJ disorders first suspect an ear issue. In fact, studies have shown that a large percentage of patients referred to ENT specialists for “unexplained ear pain” are later diagnosed with TMJ dysfunction.

Reasons TMJ disorders feel like ear problems include:

• Shared nerve pathways (especially cranial nerves V and VII)

• Anatomical proximity to the ear canal

• Pressure on the middle ear from jaw muscle inflammation

• Referred pain from joint stress and tight facial muscles

Unfortunately, this overlap in symptoms often delays appropriate care, prolonging discomfort and increasing the risk of joint degeneration.

How Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari Diagnoses TMJ-Related Jaw and Ear Pain

As a board-certified TMJ specialist with a focus on orofacial pain, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari is uniquely equipped to diagnose and treat conditions that cause simultaneous jaw and ear pain.

When you visit his Manhattan office for NYC TMJ treatment, the first step is a detailed clinical evaluation. This includes:

• A full review of symptoms and medical history

• Palpation of jaw muscles and joint

• Measurement of jaw range of motion

• Bite alignment and occlusion assessment

• Joint auscultation (listening for clicks, pops, or grinding)

• Advanced imaging such as 3D cone beam CT scans or MRIs

By taking a thorough and holistic approach, Dr. Bakhtiari can pinpoint the root of your pain and recommend a treatment plan that restores joint health and relieves your symptoms.

Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment Options That Work

Patients are often relieved to learn that most TMJ disorders can be treated conservatively—without surgery. Dr. Bakhtiari offers a range of non-invasive therapies designed to address the structural, muscular, and functional aspects of TMJ pain.

1. Custom Oral Appliances

These include TMJ splints or nightguards that reposition the jaw, reduce clenching, and relieve joint pressure. Unlike over-the-counter guards, Dr. Bakhtiari’s appliances are customized for precision and comfort.

2. Behavioral Modification

Jaw pain is often exacerbated by habits like teeth grinding, gum chewing, poor posture, or stress-related clenching. Dr. Bakhtiari educates patients on how to avoid these triggers and supports long-term habit change.

3. Physical Therapy Referrals

Targeted jaw and neck therapy can help stretch tight muscles, improve posture, and restore pain-free function. Dr. Bakhtiari works closely with experienced physical therapists to ensure coordinated care.

4. Trigger Point Injections and Anti-Inflammatory Therapy

For patients with significant muscle tension or localized inflammation, injections into tight muscle bands may provide quick and lasting relief.

5. Bite Realignment (Occlusal Adjustment)

If your bite is contributing to uneven pressure on the TMJ, a carefully controlled bite adjustment can restore balance and reduce strain.

When to Seek TMJ Treatment in New York

If you’ve been living with chronic jaw and ear pain, don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Early intervention by a TMJ specialist significantly improves outcomes and reduces the need for invasive treatment.

You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari if you experience:

• Persistent pain near your jaw or ears

• Pain that worsens with chewing or speaking

• Limited ability to open or close your mouth

• Clicking or locking of the jaw

• Frequent morning jaw or ear pain

• Unexplained tinnitus or ear pressure

These signs suggest that the source of your discomfort may not be your ears—but your jaw.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari for TMJ Treatment

Known for his clinical excellence and compassionate care, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari has become a leading authority in New York TMJ treatment. Patients choose his practice because of:

• Board certification in orofacial pain and TMJ disorders

• Expertise in advanced diagnostics and imaging

• A patient-first, non-surgical philosophy

• Holistic treatment strategies tailored to each individual

• Convenient location in Manhattan for NYC-area residents

Whether your symptoms are new or you’ve been dealing with them for years, Dr. Bakhtiari provides the support and answers you need to achieve long-lasting relief.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Jaw and Ear Pain

Jaw and ear pain can be frustrating, especially when standard medical exams reveal no clear cause. But the answer may lie in your TMJ—and the good news is that effective treatment exists.

If you’re suffering from ongoing discomfort and suspect a jaw-related cause, the first step is a proper diagnosis by a trusted TMJ specialist. Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, based in New York City, offers compassionate and expert care for those struggling with TMJ pain, helping patients return to a life free from jaw stiffness, ear pressure, and facial discomfort.  To begin healing, call 347-708-3865 or complete the online appointment request form here

Book Your Appointment Today with Dr. Nojan!