Because the ear and jaw share nerves and anatomy, pain in one often feels like it’s coming from the other.

The jaw and ear are much closer, closely related to anatomy and to neurology, than most people would ever envision. A major part of the relationship includes the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), where your jawbone connects to the skull (located directly in front of the ear). Because these anatomical structures are physically so close to each other, an issue in one part usually has some effect on the other part too. Additionally, common nerve pathways (such as the trigeminal nerve and the facial nerve) share the capacity to relay pain messages, allowing them to be intermingled and overlap. Therefore, what your brain interprets as ear pain could be originating from the jaw joint, or vice versa.

Ear infections are more common in children than adults, but adults can get them, too (particularly outer ear infections- otitis externa). Ear infections can cause a lot of pain, sometimes in such a way that it is referred to the jaw due to the inflammation pressing on the nerves. Signs that your jaw pain could be due to an ear infection:

• You have very recently been sick with a cold, flu, or upper respiratory infection.
• Your ear feels full, warm, or swollen.
• You have fluid leaking or draining from your ear.
• You may be running a mild to moderate fever.
• You feel more pain or discomfort when you press on your ear or move your jaw.

If you've ruled out an ear infection or antibiotics haven't helped, then it's time to consider one more possibility- Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD), or TMJ disorder.

• Main signs that your jaw pain and ear problems may be from:
• Pain worsens after talking, eating, or yawning
• Ear pain is not paired with fever or discharge
• You hear clicking or popping inside your jaw
• You experience headaches, facial sensitivity, or jaw tightness
• Symptoms persist even after the resolution of the illness

Ear pain near the jaw isn't always caused by TMJ or infection. Some possible causes are:

• Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the jaw joint cartilage can result in chronic stiffness and pain in the back of the ear.
• Rheumatoid or Psoriatic Arthritis: Autoimmune disorders may involve the TMJ and result in generalized pain.
• Sinus Infections: Inflammation of the sinus can produce pressure over the region surrounding the ear and jaw, especially with colds.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Clenching or grinding for long amounts of time applies pressure on the joint of the jaw and may lead to pain down the neck or in the ear.
• Mastoiditis: A rare but acute complication of untreated infection that causes inflammation and severe pain over the area behind the ear and jaw.

If you experience recurring aches around the ear and jaw, do not assume – get a proper diagnosis.

• Your health practitioner may:
• Offer an ear and jaw physical examination
• Examine the jaw movement and test for a clicking and grinding sound
• Perform images (X-ray, CT, or MRI)
• Check for signs of infection or inflammation

Treatment of TMJ varies depending on the severity of the condition, but often starts with conservative treatments: Non-surgical TMJ treatment options include:

• Medication: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatories
• Mouthguards: To avoid teeth grinding or jaw misalignment
• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the jaw
• Trigger point injections: With corticosteroids or botulinum toxin
• Ultrasound or TENS therapy: To relax muscle tension and improve circulation

Depending on why your ear and jaw pain are occurring, a few minor habits will prevent or manage flare-ups:

• Avoid inserting Q-tips or objects into your ears
• Place swimmer's ear drops in your ears following swimming if you suffer from outer ear infections
• Use warm compresses to unwind your muscles
• Consume soft foods and avoid chewing gum or hard meat during flare-ups
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth