Can TMJ Cause My Jaw or Ears to Pop?

March 28, 2023

Temporomandibular joint disorders, often referred to simply as TMJ, can cause a range of problems with the jaw, face, and even the ears.

The temporomandibular joints exist on either side of the head close to the ears and help facilitate jaw movement. It is because of the temporomandibular joint that we can speak, chew, yawn, and smile.

When there is a problem with one or more temporomandibular joints, it can cause issues with the jaw and ears. But can TMJ cause your jaw or ears to pop? Here’s what you need to know.

TMJ Can Cause Unusual Jaw Popping or Clicking Sounds

People with TMJ disorders frequently report that their jaw makes popping or clicking noises when in motion. Any movement—from speaking to chewing to yawning—may cause these unusual sounds in the jaw. Some people hear a popping noise, but others may hear a clicking or even a grating sound when moving their mouth.

If you have a TMJ disorder, these sounds may be accompanied by pain or discomfort, but this won’t be true in every case [1].

Ear Problems and TMJ

Temporomandibular joint issues can cause your ears to feel as though they are popping, but they can also cause other issues with the ears, including ringing in the ears, aching ears, or hearing loss [2].

If you experience any type of ear discomfort, it may not be related to an ear infection. Since the temporomandibular joint is located so close to the ears, any inflammation or discomfort related to these joints has the potential to cause ear symptoms.

Ear problems can coincide with other symptoms of TMJ, including popping and clicking noises, jaw or facial discomfort, and trouble opening the mouth all the way. However, it’s also possible for these symptoms to exist separately, so don’t immediately discount a TMJ disorder, even if you are only having ear symptoms.

Can TMJ-Related Popping Noises Be Treated?

Whether you’re experiencing jaw or ear popping related to TMJ, the good news is that, in many cases, it can be treated. TMJ disorders may have an underlying cause that you can address with your dentist to help your symptoms go away.

For example, overuse of the jaw joint or even teeth that don’t fit together properly can trigger TMJ symptoms. So reducing activities that aggravate the jaw joint, such as chewing gum, or getting orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth can help resolve the problem.

Other people may benefit from physical therapy, medication, or jaw exercises [3]. Your dentist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that makes the most sense based on your symptoms and potential underlying causes of the disorder.

Do You Have Symptoms of TMJ?

If you have symptoms of TMJ, including jaw or ear popping, ask your dentist during your next checkup if you could be suffering from a TMJ disorder and if so, what treatment or management options may be available.