TMD vs Ear Infection: What's the Difference?

July 12, 2023

Due to pain in similar areas, TMD conditions and ear infections are often confused for each other. Learn how to identify the difference here.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), also called TMJ, is a very common, yet complicated condition that affects millions of adults across the U.S. It's a tricky condition to diagnose simply because it has a number of overlapping symptoms with other conditions--the most common of which is ear infections.

In fact, more than 80 percent of TMD sufferers report ear pain as a major symptom. For this very reason, TMD also carries the nickname ''the great imposter'' because of how its symptoms mimic others.

This is where an experienced dentist in Burke, VA, can help you determine the root cause behind your incessant jaw or ear pain. Is it TMD? Is it an ear infection? Here's how to tell the difference.

A Note on Ear Infections in Adults

It's important to highlight the fact that ear infections among adults are actually quite uncommon. They are, however, common among children. When a child contracts a viral infection, such as a cold, this can easily spread to the middle ear, causing an infection.

They're far more common in children because of their underdeveloped, narrow ear passages, as well as their susceptibility to contracting illnesses. As an adult, your ear passageways and immune system develop and become resilient to numerous illnesses.

More often than not, you might develop an ear infection after having a cold, the flu, or allergies. But this occurrence is pretty rare.

Overlapping Symptoms and How to Tell the Difference

Ear infection pain is similar to the discomfort you feel when you have a jaw disorder, such as TMJ. Basically, when the middle ear becomes clogged and infected, you can experience these symptoms:

Persistent ear ache
Tinnitus--ringing in your ears
Poor hearing
Recurring headaches
Your ear might feel full and swollen

The reality is that these symptoms tend to overlap with TMD. However, there are clear differences between the two. Here's how you'll know you definitely have an ear infection:

You were recently ill with a cold, the flu, or a chest infection
You have a fever
Your ear might feel warm to the touch
Your ear is producing discharge--either from the outer ear or the Eustachian tube

If you have any of these symptoms, it's important that you visit your doctor, and not a dentist, as you most likely have an infection that could require antibiotics. Here are the common signs of TMD:

Your symptoms don't resolve on their own (after a few days)
If you're prescribed antibiotics, your symptoms will not respond, only persist
Your symptoms flare up after intense jaw activity, i.e. chewing something hard, speaking for long periods, etc.
You're experiencing other TMD symptoms such as headaches, lockjaw, face sensitivity, tooth sensitivity, jaw stiffness, and more

The bottom line is that ear infections are often viral. This means that they can resolve on their own. In cases of bacterial infection, you might need an antibiotic to clear it up. If you suspect that your ear pain actually relates to a jaw disorder, such as TMD, it's time to visit a dentist.

Diagnosing and Treating TMD

TMD is a complicated condition because it can result from many different things and present differently for each person. The condition itself results from strain on the jaw joints, surrounding muscles, and ligaments. Some common causes include injury to the jaw, Bruxism (teeth grinding), arthritis in the jaw joint, improper bite, stress, and more.

Here's how your dentist will diagnose TMJ:

You'll need to visit your dentist for a physical checkup
They'll observe the range of motion of your jaw
Your dentist will press on your jaw and face to identify trigger points of pain
They'll also feel around your jaw as you open and close your mouth

Not only this, but they'll discuss your symptoms with you and most likely conduct an imaging test, such as an X-ray or CT scan. In some cases, you might need an MRI or a TMJ arthroscopy.

What Does Treatment for TMJ Pain Look Like?

This depends on your level of discomfort and the root cause of your TMD condition. Your dentist will most likely treat your case of TMJ with several non-invasive options, first. Most of the time this includes medications such as pain relief, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or muscle relaxers.

Your dentist might recommend a combination of treatment options, along with medication, such as:

Physical therapy--TMJ exercises to stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles
Trigger point injections--this might include dry needling in the jaw joint, corticosteroid injections, or botulinum toxin injections
Prescribing a mouth guard--this helps to place your jaw in a better position to reduce instances of teeth grinding or clenching
Ultrasound therapy--your dentist aims to relieve pain and tension through the use of sound waves and heat to promote blood flow to the area
TENS therapy--your dentist uses low-level electrical currents to relax the jaw muscles, offering pain relief

These are just a few of the most popular and effective non-invasive treatment options for TMD. However, if you do not find relief from these treatments, you might need to consider TMJ jaw surgery.

While these procedures are not always necessary, they might be if your case is severe and you have trouble opening and closing your mouth. Your dentist will always conduct a thorough assessment before recommending this route, though.

Looking for a TMD Dentist in Burke, VA?

If you're struggling with persistent jaw pain, the good news is that there are plenty of options to find relief. The key to resolving any type of jaw dysfunction you have is to find the right dentist, with the right experience, first.

Our team of dentists offers the knowledge, expertise, and reputation to help you find relief from your TMJ pain. Get in touch with us today to schedule a checkup and together we can formulate the best treatment plan.

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Dr. Bernard Lynch

D.M.D

Dr. Bernard Lynch, DMD, FAGD, LVIF is focused around giving his patients the best possible dental care towards the end of long-term, overall good oral health, beautiful smiles, all while maintaining patient comfort. Dr. Lynch routinely keeps up-to-date with most cutting-edge dental technology and advances so as to cultivate a feeling of safety and comfort when his patients sit in the dental chair. He is broadly recognized for the continuous attention to his patients feelings, and of their mind-sets while they are under his care.

Joshua Kibrom

Treatment Plan Coordinator

Joshua Kibrom grew up in Saint Paul, Minnesota where he attended the University of Minnesota for Marketing and Business Management. Upon moving to Northern Virginia, he began providing services at Dental Care Burke as a Treatment Plan Coordinator. To fully understand the needs of the patients, he obtained certification as a dental assistant. His main objective is to help the patients achieve the necessary treatment and fully understand the financial aspects of the plan. Joshua will work with patients to ensure all of your questions are answered appropriately.

Michael Gebre

Registered Dental Assistant

Micheal Gebre graduated from Northern Virginia Community College with a major in biology. He later received his Dental Assistant II (DAII) degree from Germana Community College, under Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg, Virginia in 2016. Michael works as Registered DAII, which is the new version of Dental Physician Assistant. He had over 10 years experience as a Dental Assistant before becoming a Registered DAII.

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Comprehensive Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment Options in Burke, Virginia

By Dental Care Burke • May 6, 2025

Did you know that, according to NIDCR, around 12 million Americans suffer from pain in their TMJ area? Many are affected by temporomandibular joint disorders. These conditions can cause persistent jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing, significantly impacting daily life. Fortunately, many individuals find relief through non-surgical methods. Today, we are exploring comprehensive non-surgical TMJ treatment options available in Burke, Virginia. Understanding TMJ Disorders Many people feel jaw pain or discomfort without knowing the real cause. One possible reason is a problem with the temporomandibular joint, often called TMJ disorder. This condition can create many daily challenges. There are three major areas to understand when it comes to TMJ disorders: What causes TMJ disorders Common symptoms to watch for How jaw pain can affect daily life What Causes TMJ Disorders TMJ disorders can develop from different factors. Stress is a major cause because it often makes people clench their jaws or grind their teeth without realizing it. TMJ disorders can also be caused by jaw injuries , arthritis , or problems with how teeth fit together. Some people have a natural imbalance in the jaw muscles or joints that can trigger pain and discomfort over time. Common Symptoms to Watch For Jaw pain is one of the most common signs of a TMJ disorder. Many people notice stiffness, trouble opening their mouths fully, or a clicking sound when they chew or talk. Some even experience headaches, earaches, or facial pain. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and come and go without warning. How Jaw Pain Can Affect Daily Life TMJ disorders can make simple tasks feel overwhelming. Eating, talking, yawning, and even smiling can cause discomfort. Over time, untreated jaw pain can affect sleep quality and emotional health. TMJ pain remedies often become necessary when the discomfort starts to interfere with normal activities. Finding the right support early can make a big difference in managing jaw pain relief before it becomes harder to control. TMJ Treatment Options Available in Burke, Virginia People living with TMJ pain often want fast answers about where to go and what treatments can help. The good news is that Burke, Virginia, offers many non-surgical paths to jaw pain relief. There are three main types of TMJ treatment options available locally: Customized dental TMJ solutions Natural TMJ relief therapies Supportive therapies offered by healthcare providers Customized Dental TMJ Solutions Many dentists in Burke specialize in non-surgical TMJ care. They can create custom night guards or splints that keep the jaw in a better position while you sleep. Some dentists offer bite adjustments that help correct how your teeth meet, which can relieve pressure on the jaw. These dental TMJ solutions are often the first step when seeking relief without surgery. Natural TMJ Relief Therapies Natural TMJ relief is another option people often try, alone or with professional care. Techniques like stretching exercises, cold or warm compresses, and relaxation practices can help lessen tension in the jaw . Many people also find that simple changes like adjusting posture or choosing softer foods can reduce discomfort over time. Supportive Therapies Offered by Healthcare Providers Some healthcare providers in Burke offer supportive treatments like physical therapy, acupuncture, or massage therapy. These therapies work by relaxing the muscles around the jaw and improving overall joint function. Finding the right combination of TMJ treatment options can make a real difference in how people feel each day. Professional Dental TMJ Solutions When jaw pain becomes part of daily life, working with a dentist can offer real help. Dental professionals have many ways to treat TMJ issues without surgery. There are three main types of professional dental TMJ solutions that patients often use: Custom night guards and splints Bite adjustments Dental treatments that support jaw health Custom Night Guards and Splints One of the most common dental TMJ solutions is a custom night guard or splint. These devices are made to fit your mouth and help keep the jaw in a better position during sleep. Night guards can protect teeth from grinding and reduce pressure on the joints. Many patients find regular use can lessen jaw pain and stiffness over time. Bite Adjustments for Better Alignment When teeth do not come together properly, the jaw can experience extra stress . Dentists often suggest small changes to the shape of teeth, called bite adjustments, to correct this. A better bite can relieve pressure on the jaw muscles and joints. Many people notice that their headaches and jaw tension improve once their bite is corrected. Dental Treatments That Support Jaw Health Sometimes, larger dental problems like missing teeth or uneven dental work can add to TMJ discomfort. Dentists might suggest crowns, bridges, or other treatments to restore balance in these cases. Helping the mouth function better as a whole can make a big difference. Professional dental TMJ solutions aim to relieve pain while improving how the teeth and jaw work together. Natural TMJ Relief Methods Gentle exercises are often used to help strengthen the jaw muscles and improve movement. These movements can stretch tight muscles and support joint function more smoothly. Some people find that practicing slow mouth opening and closing of the mouth or moving the jaw from side to side can reduce stiffness. It is important to move carefully and stop if pain increases. Applying heat or cold to the jaw can offer natural TMJ relief for many people. Heat helps relax muscles and increase blood flow to the area. Cold packs can reduce swelling and numb sharp pain. Many people find switching between the two methods helpful depending on how their jaw feels on a given day. Natural TMJ Relief Finding the right TMJ treatment options can make a real difference in daily comfort and long-term wellness. At Dental Care Burke, Dr. Bernard Lynch is committed to ongoing education to help patients feel safe, comfortable, and confident in their smiles for life. He believes in constantly advancing his knowledge of dentistry and stays active with leading organizations and peers in the field. He also takes a conservative approach before considering surgical interventions! Get in touch today to learn how we can help with your TMJ issues!

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques for TMJ Disorders at Our Burke, VA Practice

By Dental Care Burke • May 6, 2025

According to the NIH, TMJ disorders consist of more than 30 specific disorders related to pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles. These conditions can also cause headaches, earaches, and difficulty chewing, making daily life uncomfortable. If you have been experiencing these symptoms, you might wonder how doctors diagnose TMJ disorders. TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, one of the most complex joints in the body. Today, we are taking a closer look at the advanced diagnostic techniques we use at our Burke, VA, practice to understand TMJ symptoms better and help patients find lasting relief. TMJ Disorders: Clinical Examination Techniques Before using advanced tools, a dentist must carefully check the patient's mouth, jaw, and face through a detailed clinical exam. This hands-on step helps guide the next parts of the diagnosis. There are three major parts of a good clinical exam for TMJ disorders : Palpation of the jaw muscles and joints Checking the jaw's range of motion Listening for sounds and checking for tenderness Palpation of the Jaw Muscles And Joints The first step often involves feeling the muscles and joints by hand. The dentist gently presses on different areas to locate the pain . It can show if the muscles are sore, if swelling is present, or if there are signs of inflammation. Careful palpation helps spot problems that might not be seen with imaging alone. Checking the Jaw's Range of Motion A healthy temporomandibular joint should move smoothly when opening and closing the mouth. During the exam, the dentist asks the patient to open wide, close, and shift their jaw from side to side. If movement is limited or uneven, it can point to joint damage or muscle tension . Watching how the jaw moves is important in creating the right dental care solutions. Listening for Sounds and Checking for Tenderness The dentist will listen carefully for clicks, pops, or grinding sounds during jaw movements. These sounds can mean the joint is not moving correctly. Tenderness around the face, neck, or shoulders is checked, too. Tight or painful areas can show how much the problem has spread and how it affects the whole facial system. These checks give valuable clues that help with facial pain management and jaw pain treatment. Advanced Imaging for Accurate Diagnosis While a good clinical exam provides essential information, imaging plays a major role in gaining a full view of TMJ disorders . Understanding what happens inside the temporomandibular joint helps build a clear treatment plan. Three main types of imaging are often used: Panoramic X-rays for basic views CT scans for detailed bone structure MRI scans for soft tissue and disc analysis Panoramic X-Rays Panoramic X-rays are often the first imaging step. In one image, they show a complete picture of the teeth, jaws, and joints. It helps spot large issues like bone damage, missing teeth, or growths that might affect the joint . While panoramic X-rays are helpful, they sometimes miss smaller problems inside the joint. CT Scans for Detailed Bone Structure When more detail is needed, a CT scan examines the bones around the temporomandibular joint in greater detail. This scan helps spot fractures, joint wear, and even tiny changes in bone shape. CT imaging is a powerful tool for dentists who are creating dental care solutions that require a deep view of the bone structure. MRI Scans for Soft Tissue and Disc Analysis MRI scans are often used to study the soft tissues inside the joint, including the cartilage disc that cushions movement. An MRI can show if the disc is out of place or if there is swelling inside the joint. This information is valuable when patients are seeking relief from TMJ symptoms through personalized treatment plans. Joint Function Tests and Measurements When patients experience TMJ disorders , it is important to examine the joint and study how it moves during daily use. Joint function tests and measurements provide valuable information that helps build a strong treatment plan. There are three common ways dentists measure joint function: Electromyography (EMG) to study muscle activity Jaw tracking devices to follow jaw movements Measuring jaw strength and flexibility during function Electromyography (EMG) To Study Muscle Activity Electromyography is a tool for measuring the function of the muscles around the temporomandibular joint . Small sensors are placed on the skin to detect muscle activity while the patient opens, closes, and moves the jaw. If the muscles are overactive, underactive, or out of balance, the results can guide jaw pain treatment that targets the real cause of discomfort. Jaw Tracking Devices to Follow Jaw Movements Jaw-tracking devices are another helpful way to measure function. These tools track how the jaw moves in real-time. They can show if the jaw opens unevenly, if there are sudden shifts, or if the joint does not follow a natural path. Problems in movement often connect to larger TMJ disorders that need focused care . Measuring Jaw Strength and Flexibility During Function Jaw strength and flexibility are key parts of a healthy temporomandibular joint. During testing, the patient may be asked to bite, stretch, or perform small movements while the dentist measures the results. During these tests, weakness, stiffness, or pain can point to damage or strain that needs attention. These measurements help dentists create better dental care solutions and offer real TMJ symptom relief to patients struggling with daily pain. Dental Care Solutions Finding the correct answers for TMJ disorders starts with careful, advanced diagnostic techniques. We can better understand each patient's needs by combining clinical exams, imaging, and joint function tests. At Dental Care Burke, Dr. Bernard Lynch, DMD, FAGD, LVIF is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-term oral health, confident smiles, and lasting comfort. He stays current with the latest dental technology to create a safe, welcoming experience for everyone who visits. Dr. Lynch is known for his genuine attention to patients' feelings, always prioritizing their comfort and peace of mind. Get in touch today to learn how we can help with your TMJ issues .