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Orlando, FL
A 20-year-old female asked:

Can tmj cause difficulty swallowing ear pain headache pain at base of head like where the little nubs as i call them stick out on one side espically when ear starts to hurt?

3 doctor answers8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Paul Grin
Pain Management 38 years experience
Rule out ear problem: Ruling out ear infection is especially important so that the possibility of hearing loss can be avoided. Also it is important that your physician rule out the possibility of infection the ear first before making the assumption that the problem is related to TMJ. See your PCP.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Arnold Malerman
Orthodontics 55 years experience
Yes, but...: Yes, but so can many other pathological entities. See your Physician to rule out non-dental causes. See a Dentist familiar with diagnosing joint/muscle dysfunction. Sometimes collaborative treatment is indicated.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Kevin Sambuchino
Dentistry 23 years experience
Yes: Take a simple test for tmj. Open and close and listen for popping and clicking if so you have a TMJ problem. Bite on a q-tip with front teeth and open and close on it, sound should go away. If sound goes away this indicates that you jaw is in a position causing you TMJ problems and you should see a TMJ dentist to change your bite.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jun 9, 2015

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