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What Causes Sharp Pain In The Right Ear When Closing My Mouth?
Question: Having a sharp pain in the right ear when closing my mouth. Unable to close my mouth completely as a result. Have to constantly keep my lower jaw at least an inch apart from the upper. Is this because of a TMJ disorder? Which specialist should I see for this problem?
Brief Answer:
Initial examination by an ENT Specialist
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Initial examination by an ENT Specialist will help confirm the source of the pain. Since these areas have common shared nerve supply, referred pain is common.
2. If the ear is normal then the jaw pain is being referred to the ear. In this case you may require imaging and a dental opinion.
3. There are many conditions that may lead to such a situation, however, they should not be a cause for worry at your age. For example, an impacted wisdom tooth is more likely at your age than a TMJ Disorder.
4. In the meanwhile start with an OTC painkiller (after meals) and heat fomentation.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Initial examination by an ENT Specialist
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Initial examination by an ENT Specialist will help confirm the source of the pain. Since these areas have common shared nerve supply, referred pain is common.
2. If the ear is normal then the jaw pain is being referred to the ear. In this case you may require imaging and a dental opinion.
3. There are many conditions that may lead to such a situation, however, they should not be a cause for worry at your age. For example, an impacted wisdom tooth is more likely at your age than a TMJ Disorder.
4. In the meanwhile start with an OTC painkiller (after meals) and heat fomentation.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Shanthi.E
Hello Dr. Bhatti,
Thanks for your prompt reply.
> Initial examination by an ENT Specialist will help confirm the source of the pain. Since these areas have common shared nerve supply, referred pain is common.
I have fixed an appointment with an ENT specialist tomorrow, hoping that the treatment can be done there after diagnosing.
> In the meanwhile start with an OTC painkiller (after meals) and heat fomentation.
I have been taking an OTC painkiller (naproxen) every 12 hours for the past three days to no effect, even after taking 2 pills per dose.
I am also using a hot water pack for small amount of relief.
Thanks for your prompt reply.
> Initial examination by an ENT Specialist will help confirm the source of the pain. Since these areas have common shared nerve supply, referred pain is common.
I have fixed an appointment with an ENT specialist tomorrow, hoping that the treatment can be done there after diagnosing.
> In the meanwhile start with an OTC painkiller (after meals) and heat fomentation.
I have been taking an OTC painkiller (naproxen) every 12 hours for the past three days to no effect, even after taking 2 pills per dose.
I am also using a hot water pack for small amount of relief.
Brief Answer:
As below:
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for writing back.
1. Yes, a direct examination will settle the issue.
2. Try a different OTC Painkiller, preferably one that contains paracetamol and ibuprofen.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
As below:
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for writing back.
1. Yes, a direct examination will settle the issue.
2. Try a different OTC Painkiller, preferably one that contains paracetamol and ibuprofen.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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